Explore the Galápagos Islands with us
Sometimes called a ‘living laboratory’, the remote...
Explore the Galápagos Islands with us
Sometimes called a ‘living laboratory’, the remote Galápagos Islands are a unique example of pristine nature, giving us an insight into the very processes of life on Earth. It was here that naturalist Charles Darwin set foot in 1835, and the experience led him to write his ground-breaking book about evolution, On the Origin of Species.
The inspiration behind a classic
Our journey to these astonishing volcanic islands follows in Darwin’s footsteps, bringing you closer to the animals and sights that inspired him. In particular, we’ll be looking out for the most of the so-called ‘Big 15’ –the 15 most iconic animal and bird species of the Galapagos, including giant tortoises, marine iguanas, Galápagos Albatross, Blue-footed Boobies,and others.
Unique Wildlife & Ecology
From the famous giant tortoises, which lumber around the greener parts of the islands, to the scaly marine iguanas that have evolved to graze on underwater vegetation, you’ll see why Galápagos is such a special destination for nature lovers. Due to the uniqueness of each island, a huge range of terrestrial and aquatic wildlife flourishes in this haven of biodiversity.
What’s more, having evolved with no major predators, much of the wildlife is impervious to the presence of people and remains remarkably tame. Of course, we’ll maintain a respectable distance, but you’ll be able to get close to the animals, whether they be Galápagos sea lions, Blue-footed Boobies, land iguanas, Frigate Birds or other members of the ‘Big 15’ iconic species.
A Crucible of Evolution
Hidden away in the vastness of the Pacific, the Galápagos archipelago formed millions of years ago when subsea eruptions pushed up a group of volcanic islands. Due to their remoteness, they were at first arid and barren, but were soon colonised by rainforest animals from Central and South America floating across on rafts of vegetation.
Only the birds and reptiles could survive such a long voyage, and so the Galápagos became seeded by new arrivals, free from mammalian predators. Each species was compelled to adapt to the often very different island environments, making natural selection apparent to Darwin when he arrived. You’ll learn all about this and more as your knowledgeable onboard Expedition Team inform and educate you by way of onboard lectures and guided nature walks.
Educational, Informal, and Enjoyable
At Hurtigruten Expeditions we want to show you some of the most remote and beautiful places in the world and do it in a way that gives back. You’ll learn all about the unique and fragile ecology of the Galápagos Islands and why its protection is important. What’s more, with a focus on science and conservation, you’ll learn heaps of interesting things from the knowledgeable Expedition Team, who’ve been exploring the islands for years.
Along the way you’ll visit a variety of islands and ecosystems, from the white sandy beaches and black volcanic rocks of Santa Fe to the lush highlands of Santa Cruz where wild giant tortoises thrive. At the same time, you’ll enjoy outstanding cuisine and hospitality aboard our modern, comfortable and small expedition ship.