The Galapagos Islands are located in the Pacific Ocean 600 miles west of Ecuador, which is on the western coast of South America. They are located right on the equator, but oddly, they are not tropical islands and it is not hot all year like you might expect (69 – 84 degrees).

The big draw to these islands is its inhabitants – Blue Footed Boobies,  Galapagos Penguins, Giant Tortoise, Sea Lions, Humpback Whales, Galapagos Fur Seals, among many others. These are all wild animals, but they are not afraid of humans! The photography opportunities are fantastic because you can get so close to these creatures and they don’t care or scurry away! How awesome would that be?

There are many ships, yachts, and sailboats that cruise through the Galapagos Islands, and there are also many different price points. It will run anywhere from $1,662.00 (4 days, inside cabin,  low season) to $12,643 (8 days, balcony cabin, high season). I would like to go on one of the National Geographic Explorer ships which runs about $6,200, but with airfare, tips, etc added, that is getting quite expensive. I would also like to go sooner rather than later, so I think I will be looking at a less expensive ship and try to use frequent flier miles for the flight. I know that I will come back with exceptional photos and memories for a lifetime!