Ever wonder what it's like to experience the Galápagos up close, exploring its rugged shores and diving into crystal-clear waters surrounded by fearless wildlife? Expedition Trips' very own Ashley and Gloria just returned from the 8-day Wild Galapagos Escape expedition with National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions aboard the Islander II, and their journey was nothing short of transformative. Join them as they share tales of magical wildlife encounters, a renewed hope for conservation, and the unique camaraderie that only a trip to the "enchanted islands" can inspire. Here's a glimpse into their unforgettable adventure:
Gloria: So, how was it?
Ashley: It was... magical. Plenty of other words come to mind—amazing, incredible, unreal—but none quite capture the experience entirely. There was something truly special about interacting so closely with the animals, something that left a deep and lasting impression. "Magical" just fits. Would you agree? How would you put it in three words?
Gloria: Absolutely. Three words? Busy. Hopeful. Surreal. I'm using "busy" here, but I am not just talking about our schedule. We signed up for every possible activity and excursion - no regrets there! - so we saw those packed days coming. But "busy" is also how the Galapagos felt, though opposite from a modern, urban sense. There is so much going on once you step foot on the islands or put your head underwater. Do you remember the comment by Robert FitzRoy, the captain of HMS Beagle, who dismissed the Galápagos Islands as "just a bunch of rocks?" when speaking to Darwin? The dramatic desolation of those volcanic landscapes contrasts starkly with how lively each island is. Contrary to his impression, the islands are indeed teeming with life! It's also a place that filled me with hope. In 2024, learning about successful stories of preservation is rare. Our visit to the Darwin Research Center was so inspiring, and seeing the results of the efforts carried out by scientists and local communities over decades was simply empowering. I think the Galapagos' conservation efforts are more than anything a story about willpower: the course of events can be reversed, and things can be fixed. Acknowledging it was so meaningful and refreshing. And about being surreal: we come from places where animals fear you - rightfully so! - while on the Archipelago, the wildlife encounters felt oneiric, like a dream. Galapagos species have what biologists call "ecological naïveté"—meaning they evolved without fear of humans since we weren't part of their environment. Getting that close to these remarkable animals was such a privilege. About that, what was your most memorable wildlife encounter?
Ashley: Oh, that is such a tough question! I had so many incredible encounters that I honestly felt like I was living in a Planet Earth documentary the entire time. From swimming alongside sea lions, Galápagos Penguins, and sharks, to locking eyes with a baby sea lion that waddled right up to me on the beach, every moment was surreal. I watched a Lava Lizard doing push-ups just inches away, saw a Flightless Cormorant dive into the water right in front of me while I was snorkeling, and shared mesmerizing gazes with Pacific green sea turtles as they glided around me. It was all beyond extraordinary. It's nearly impossible to pick a "favorite" moment because each experience was so unique and special in its own way. But if I had to choose a standout, it would be the sheer awe I felt during our first deep-water snorkeling outing at Punta Vicente Roca. Within seconds of putting my face in the water, I saw a Marine Iguana chomping on algae from a rock. We had seen these fascinating creatures on land earlier in the trip, but witnessing this fully-fledged reptile foraging underwater was absolutely mind-blowing. It felt like I had been transported to another dimension. That overwhelming sense of wonder in that moment is something I'll carry with me forever. What made these encounters even more meaningful was the guidance of the incredible Naturalists—veteran experts and local Ecuadorians—who joined us. Their enthusiasm and deep knowledge of the wildlife and ecosystems elevated the experience to another level. Their passion for sharing the wonders of the Galápagos made every encounter even more unforgettable.
Gloria: About loving your job! Their level of unfiltered excitement during the excursions is something you can't make up - listen to the video with Salvador, one of the Naturalist, screaming at the top of his lungs, "Yeah, baby!" to a Galapagos Penguin. But everybody aboard was incredibly kind, professional, and caring. Every crew member we interacted with treated us like we were part of a big family. The same goes for our fellow passengers: a tremendous bunch. It's hard not to be the best version of yourself during a trip like this, but I am sure how the staff and crew managed all the nuances during our 5 days aboard greatly impacted everyone's mood in the best possible way. Would you recommend this experience to solo travelers?
Ashley: I would highly recommend this experience to anyone with a love for adventure, wildlife, and discovering the wonders of the world around them. Whether you're traveling solo, with a partner, a friend, or as part of a group, this journey offers something uniquely personal for everyone. Even if you start the trip as a solo traveler, you'll quickly find yourself connecting with others onboard. By the time the journey ends, you'll likely leave with new friendships and unforgettable shared memories. The variety of activities and shared experiences make it easy to bond with your fellow travelers, and before long, it feels like you've become part of one big family.
Speaking of all the activities and outings this trip entails, what would you consider the essentials to pack for this kind of expedition? Was there anything you brought that turned out unnecessary, or something you wish you had packed instead?
Gloria: I'll start by saying: leave some room for what you'll want to buy during the trip. The stunning works featured in the Gallery (the ship "gift shop") are the best souvenirs to bring back home. They are made by Galapagueños artists, so you'll also support local businesses. One more thing: you are at the Equator, but don't expect the water to be bath-temperature during the cold season (June to November). During our snorkeling sessions, the water was around 70°F. The Islander II provides guests with short wetsuits, but if you are sensitive to the cold (like I am), you could consider buying a full-length arm and leg wetsuit. And, of course, reef-safe sunblock is a must. What else am I missing?
Ashley: As a photography enthusiast, there are a couple of things I would highly recommend. First, bring a small waterproof camera, like a GoPro, for snorkeling. It's absolutely worth the investment to be able to capture the vibrant underwater life. Second, I opted not to bring a zoom lens for my camera, and in hindsight, I really wish I had. While the wildlife often comes incredibly close, there were several moments when I wished I could capture animals higher in the trees or further off the trail with more reach.
Gloria: How do you even begin to return to 'ordinary' life after experiencing something so extraordinary? Do you feel the Galápagos experience has changed you?
Ashley: I feel incredibly fortunate to have had the opportunity to visit these magical islands, and I can absolutely say that the Galapagos changed me. The experience deepened my connection to wildlife, reminded me to slow down, and strengthened my commitment to doing everything I can to protect this planet and the remarkable species that call it home. It's not always easy to transition back to "real life" after a trip like this, but I feel lucky that I get to relive my experience often, by sharing it with our travelers, and helping them plan their own adventures!
Gloria: I couldn't agree more. I am spending a great deal of time still looking at the pictures and realizing how transformative this trip was. I have traveled to many places, but few destinations have had such an impact. We may have left the islands, but I suspect we will carry the Galapagos magic wherever we go. They call them the Las Islas Encantadas (the enchanted isles), and I completely understand why now: they put a spell on you, and you can't help but feel a pull to return.
