Turtles & Tortoises- My Galapagos Adventure

The Galapagos Islands are located 400 miles off the coast of Ecuador and are renowned for their untouched natural beauty and abundant wildlife. Charles Darwin infamously spent much time here studying the wildlife and based his theory of evolution on his findings. I was fortunate enough to spend a month volunteering for a tortoise conservation project here, and I now consider these few weeks of my Latin America holiday to be some of the best of my life.

Blue footed boobies

The Galapagos is archipelago of islands, originally formed around three million years ago by volcanic eruptions which has created a unique landscape of barren volcanic rock. During my stay here I went on a group horse trek across the breathtaking hillsides of one of the islands (Isabela) and felt like the luckiest person in the world as I stood gazing across the beautiful volcanic landscape.The islands are a wildlife enthusiast’s paradise! There are many animal species and birds unique to the islands, so spotting them is a particularly unique experience. Aside from the infamous giant tortoise native to the Galapagos, you are likely to see sea lions, marine iguanas, the Galapagos shark, lava lizards, albatross and the infamous blue footed boobie bird.

Latin America travel-Suze in the Galapagos

Working at the tortoise conservation centre

I would definitely advise doing a guided snorkelling excursion, as you are sure to encounter an abundance of marine life, including sting rays and turtles. Before you know it, a seal will be dancing around you wanting to play! I’ll never forget the time that I went for a quick swim one sunny afternoon, just to find myself surrounded by three turtles who appeared to be utterly at peace with humans in their territory. If you’re an experienced you should also take the opportunity to dive in arguably one of the best diving spots in the world.

Despite fact that the Galapagos has some stunning tropical beaches and sunny climate, the true reason to visit this hidden gem as part of your Latin America travel is to have an authentic experience of wildlife, surrounded by some of the most stunning natural beauty on earth.