The Galapagos Islands make up an expansive archipelago with various islands and ports. Positioned at the center of three distinct ocean currents and home to highest levels of endemic creatures anywhere, the Galapagos is the perfect place for an educational and enjoyable vacation. Galapagos Islands family travel can be on the expensive side, but Galapagos travel packages can help keep the costs low. A bevy of tours and activities await families traveling to the Galapagos.
Galapagos Island family travel can easily be booked as a travel package. Hundreds of companies offer Galapagos Island family travel packages. Since the only way to reach the Galapagos Islands is by plane, many family Galapagos Island travel packages will include airfare from Quito or another major Ecuadorian airport to the islands. The airport is Baltra is the largest on the islands and the most frequently trafficked.
Once you have arrived in the Galapagos, there are a number of different options for getting around. Perhaps the most popular is passage on a cruise ship, which will take travelers around to the different islands and ports. Family Galapagos Island travel by cruise ship can be quite comfortable and safe, with many cruise ships specializing in family travel. Families should be aware that although the cruise ships are quite modern, they are smaller then the typical cruise ship, and are meant to provide lodging and meals rather then endless entertainment. Since the best family Galapagos Island travel fun will be happening on the islands themselves, this should not present a problem.
Galapagos travel for children is an experience that will not be soon forgotten. Home to so many native animals, the Galapagos Islands present endless opportunities for children to experience up close and personal interactions with the animals of the islands. With almost no natural predators on the islands, the animals of the Galapagos have no fear of people, young or old, and are happy to hop on a child's shoulder or rest on a foot. Swimming with the world's only tropical penguins, or coming face to face with the famous Galapagos tortoise is an every day occurrence during Galapagos travel.
In addition to all of the animal interaction and tours of the islands, safety is also a major consideration when planning a trip to South America, and bringing along a Galapagos travel guide is often a good idea. Adults and children will need vaccinations before traveling to the Galapagos Island. Vaccinations for Hepatitis A and B, Malaria, and typhoid are all recommended, and a yellow fever vaccination is required. It is also a good idea to check with your local healthcare provider for additional information about traveling outside your native country. Travelers should also stick strictly to bottled water when traveling and keep an eye out for ice that has not been previously boiled.
In addition to vaccinations and a good Galapagos travel guide, families will also want to bring along a few other items to ensure their safety and comfort. Items to include when packing your travel bag should start with hats with a brim to keep out the sun, sunglasses, plenty of sun block, lightweight long-sleeved shirt and pants, and insect repellent. Packing lightly is a must for anyone traveling to the Galapagos.
Whether you and your family plan to stay in Galapagos for a week or a month, the adventure that awaits all travelers is sure to delight. Consult your Galapagos travel guide or your local travel agency for more information about planning your trip.
