3 Main Tips to Choose your Galapagos Expedition

Written by Nicole Guevara

Reading time: 3 minutes

You’ve dreamt of the Galapagos Islands for a lifetime. This is a place where history has been made. It was home to pirates and whalers for centuries, but primarily to highly unusual fauna and inspiration for Darwin’s theory as presented in On the Origin of Species. It is one of the few places on Earth where wildlife shows no fear of humans. Find your best Galapagos tours by asking these questions:
1. Do I Have to Do the Exact Same Thing my Travel Mates are Doing at All Times While We’re in the Galapagos National Park?
2. Will I Have Access To Medical Care On Board?
3. If I Choose A Single-Guided Boat, Will I Get Exclusive Access To Locations In The Galapagos National Park?

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Tips To Choose the Best Galapagos Tours

Regarding Galapagos Islands cruises, it’s essential to understand that one size only sometimes accommodates everyone. Several multi-guided ships provide unique advantages for travelers, enabling them to witness a wide array of natural wonders in one of the world’s most highly valued wildlife destinations. Roughly three-quarters of cruise ships in the Galapagos are designed to accommodate 16 guests. As this number aligns with the National Park’s group size regulations, guests on these ships typically have no alternative but to explore the islands as a single unit.
However, with multi-guided ships, like those operated by Metropolitan Touring, having several guides on board allows guests to visit the islands in more intimate groups, averaging just 10-12 guests per guide. These groups can be further divided based on various factors such as interests (for example, birding), language (including English, Spanish, and German), and activity level (ranging from easy-going to strenuous), resulting in even smaller group sizes.

Keep reading to discover crucial tips that will assist you in selecting the best Galapagos tours!
Don’t miss the opportunity of a lifetime! Get ready to live an unforgettable experience in the Galapagos Islands!

Galapagos Tours Tip 1

Do I Have to Do the Exact Same Thing my Travel Mates are Doing at All Times While We’re in the Galapagos National Park?

There are countless ways to explore and enjoy the Galapagos. Land-based travel offers exceptional flexibility for scheduling activities outside the park. However, if you wish to visit any sites within the park boundaries, it’s crucial to remember that the National Park Authorities mandate the accompaniment of a licensed Naturalist Guide. This requirement ensures that multi-guided expedition vessels offer unparalleled flexibility during your Galapagos tour.
TRAVEL EXPERT TIP: Ask if more than one activity is available simultaneously.

Galapagos Tours Tip 2

Will I Have Access to Medical Care on Board?

You’re fortunate if you consistently enjoy good health, but having a Medical Officer (Doctor) can significantly enhance your Galapagos tour experience, given the remote nature of the region. All operators prioritize the safety and security of their guests, and the National Park Authority provides facilities and emergency medical transport. However, some operators elevate guest safety by ensuring a permanent medical presence on board.
TRAVEL EXPERT TIP: Ask if there is a Medical Officer onboard.
Galapagos Tours Tip 3

If I Choose A Single-Guided Boat, Will I Get Exclusive Access To Locations In The Galapagos National Park?

You will typically encounter more than four single-guided boats or just one expedition vessel at each visitor site. Why is this so? According to the Galapagos National Park (GNP) regulations, each visitor site has a maximum number of guests allowed at any time. All itineraries must receive approval from the authorities. The careful design of the itinerary, not the size of the ship, guarantees exclusivity and optimal wildlife viewing opportunities during island visits.
TRAVEL EXPERT TIP: Ask about your ship’s Galapagos exclusivity rate. ***