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If you ask me, as a person born and raised on the Island, with over 15 years of experience working as a tour guide, I will personally say – YES. A land-based trip is a great way to enjoy the Galápagos Islands! While many people associate Galápagos travel with live-aboard cruises, land-based trips offer several unique advantages that make them an excellent option for exploring this incredible archipelago. There are several benefits from do it land-based, besides contributing to local communities, you will have a close interaction with local culture and its people.
These are some of the benefits I have in mindFlexibility and Personalization: Land-based trips allow for more flexibility in planning your daily activities. You can choose which islands to visit, how long to stay, and what excursions to join based on your interests. This is perfect for travelers who prefer a more customizable itinerary. Access to Local Culture: Staying on one of the inhabited islands (like Santa Cruz, San Cristóbal, Isabela, or Floreana) allows you to experience local culture, interact with residents, enjoy local cuisine, and support local businesses. You can explore the towns, visit local markets, and dine in local restaurants, which is not possible on a cruise. Budget-Friendly Options: Land-based trips can be more affordable than cruises. You have the flexibility to choose accommodations that fit your budget, from luxury hotels to guesthouses, and you can save money by choosing day trips instead of a full cruise package. Less Sea Sickness: For travelers who are prone to sea sickness, a land-based trip can be a much more comfortable option. You stay in hotels on the islands at night and only take shorter boat trips during the day, reducing the time spent on the water. Access to Unique Sites: While some remote islands are best accessed via cruise, there are plenty of unique sites accessible from the inhabited islands. You can take day trips to popular visitor sites, such as Bartolome Island, North Seymour, Española Island, and Santa Fe Island, among others. You can also enjoy activities like snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and hiking. Conservation and Responsible Tourism: Land-based travel can be more environmentally friendly, as you have more control over your choices and can support eco-friendly accommodations and sustainable practices. This helps to minimize the impact on the fragile ecosystems of the islands. |