The Galapagos Islands

The Galápagos Islands Tours

Located some 600 miles off the Ecuadorian Coast in the Pacific Ocean, the Galápagos Islands are as exotic as exotic islands get. From dazzling night skies, gentle giant tortoises galore, and some of the most beautiful plantlife to behold within the region, it’s no surprise why so many couples choose these islands as their romantic getaway destination.

The Galápagos Islands were famously introduced to the world by Charles Darwin and his nearly month-long stay studying its inhabitants. His 1859 published work On the Origin of Species focused heavily on his discoveries, and the islands have since grown in notoriety and continued popularity, with more than 25,000 people calling the Galápagos home.

Road Scholar is proud to offer a wide array of Galápagos Islands experiences allowing participants to take in all the sights and sounds the islands have to offer. From small group adventure tours, grandparent and family educational tours, and more, there’s no shortage of things to do, explore, and learn on Galápagos Islands tours for seniors.

5 Must-Do Activities At Galápagos Islands Tours

If you’re looking to book an upcoming Galápagos Islands tour, here are some noteworthy things to remember while planning your trip.

• Get a Glimpse of the Galápagos Giants - The islands’ native giant tortoises are some of the most popular wildlife in the region, and for a good reason, as they often live for over 100 years and are immensely friendly. Though increased predation and habitat loss have placed them on the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Red List, conservation efforts have increased to ensure their survival. 

• Explore the Parks - Nearly the entire Galápagos Islands is designated as a national park. There is no shortage of trails for park enthusiasts to explore and take in.

• Sky Gaze - Thanks in part to its coastal location — allowing it to be clear of any unnatural light — the Galápagos Islands have an incredible view of the nighttime sky. You might even have the chance to glimpse some constellations of the Northern and Southern Hemispheres if you’re lucky!

• One-of-a-Kind Cuisine - Add some of the islands’ most unique dishes to your “must-try” list, including Canchalagua Ceviche (a mollusk-based ceviche), Langostino Encocado (coconut cooked lobster), Arroz Marinero (seafood and vegetable mix served with rice), and Seco (a meat dish served with slices of avocado and fried plantations).

• Scuba Diving - It's not every day that you get to swim in the water alongside sea lions, manta rays, penguins, sea turtles, and dolphins! Scuba diving is a popular attraction for those on Galápagos Islands cruises. It also allows participants to see the islands’ native marine bird, the blue-footed booby.

Why the Galápagos Islands Is a Must-Visit Destination for Seniors

Galápagos Islands tours for seniors offer an otherworldly adventure not found anywhere else. This isolated archipelago in the Pacific Ocean is renowned for its distinct wildlife, breathtaking landscapes and comfortable year-round climate. Here’s what makes Galápagos Island tours one of our most popular travel destinations, perfect for seniors:

• Unique Wildlife: The wildlife found on the Galápagos Islands is famously endemic, which is when a species exists nowhere else on the planet. This is mainly due to the fact this chain of islands is extremely isolated, which is one of the factors that helped shape Darwin’s theory of evolution by natural selection. As you embark on a Galápagos Island tour, you’ll be able to discover an array of diverse species you can’t see anywhere else, including giant tortoises, marine iguanas and blue-footed boobies, in their natural habitat. Other notable animals include the flightless cormorant, Darwin’s finches and Galápagos sea lions.
• Stunning Landscapes: Along with diverse wildlife, Galápagos Islands tours for seniors expose you to diverse landscapes. From volcanic islands to pristine beaches, stunning scenery defines the Galápagos experience. The islands’ interiors, known as the highlands, offer a sharp contrast to the dry coastal areas, allowing vegetation to thrive thanks to more rainfall and cooler temperatures. Near coastal areas, you can explore mangroves and saltwater lagoons that offer important habitats for bird species and marine life.
• Mild Climate: No matter the time of year you book your Galápagos Islands travel tours, you’ll enjoy a pleasant, year-round climate that is ideal for comfortable exploration and outdoor activities. June to November is the dry season, when the Humboldt Current brings cooler waters and mistier conditions, with temperatures averaging 60-70°F. From December to May is the warm, wet season, with temperatures around 70-85°F.

Preparing for Your Galápagos Adventure

Galápagos Island tours are filled with excitement and adventure, and preparation is key for a smooth experience. Keep these important tips in mind as you get ready:

• Packing Essentials: Bring light, breathable clothing to account for the hot and humid climate, a light jacket for cooler mornings and nights, a rain jacket for the unexpected shower, sun protection and sturdy footwear for hiking and walking.
• Health Considerations: Keep your health top of mind by packing any necessary medications, assessing your fitness level before any high-intensity excursions and talking with your doctor to discuss trip-related health and safety considerations.
• Travel Tips: Plan your visit around your seasonal preferences, whether you prefer cool and dry or warm and wet. Additionally, make sure to follow conservation rules to protect the endemic species and to fully immerse yourself in this one-of-a-kind experience.

Why Choose Road Scholar for Galápagos Islands Tours

Why go with us on Galápagos Island tours for seniors? At Road Scholar, our programs are led by knowledgeable naturalists and experts who offer deep insights into the Galapagos' unique environment. Whether you’re embarking on a solo travel adventure or a multigenerational vacation, we ensure seamless travel arrangements from start to finish, giving you peace of mind and a stress-free experience for senior travelers.

Once you find an adventure, you’ll join a supportive and enriching community of like-minded explorers eager to learn more about the world’s habitats, wildlife and landscapes. With over four decades of experience organizing exceptional, senior-friendly travel all the way from Latin America to Australia and everywhere in between, you’ll have a fantastic journey with Road Scholar.

Discover the Intimacy of Small Group Adventures with Road Scholar

If an unforgettable Galápagos Islands tour has been on your radar for a while, now is the perfect time to plan your upcoming getaway. Embark with Road Scholar to witness the wildlife and natural treasures through biking, hiking, and swimming alongside local experts.

Book your travel and learn more about Galápagos Islands tours with Road Scholar today!