5 Must-See
Galapagos Animals

Veronika Macas

Latin America | Ecuador And Galapagos Islands

With an animal population that attracted no less an authority than Charles Darwin, the Galapagos Islands are among the world’s most exotic wildlife playgrounds. And because the majority of Galapagos animals are not native to the islands (most species originally floated to the island on logs or plant beds), the resulting population is as diverse as it is fascinating.

Blue-Footed Booby

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Their distinctly coloured appendages are for more than great photo ops. In an elaborate mating ritual, males display their feet by lifting them up and down while strutting before the female. It’s an impressive ritual, but I can tell you from personal experience (and my wife can corroborate) that it’s less successful for human males.

Iguanas

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Galapagos land iguanas belong to a genus known as conolophus, which is Greek for “spiny crest.” (One look at the picture at left and you can probably guess why.) Visually the iguanas are something to behold, but don’t tell that to Darwin, who called them “ugly animals,” before elaborating, “from their low facial angle they have a singularly stupid appearance.” Not cool, Darwin. Not cool.

Don’t Miss Out!

The Galapagos Islands are a modern-day Eden, and as you can imagine, space books up quickly, so be sure to reserve your space. Check out an itinerary below, or email veronika.macas@butterfield.com for more info.

DETAILED ITINERARY

Sea Lions

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They may be named after lions, but these guys probably have more in common with your family dog than the king of the jungle. Known as the islands’ “welcoming party,” sea lions can often be found sunbathing on the shore (though I sometimes worry they’re not using enough SPF) and have a playful nature that makes them a hit with travellers.

Giant Tortoises

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If you haven’t seen them in person, believe me: “giant” is an apt name for these behemoths, which can weigh nearly 900 lb and reach lengths of 5’9″! Their historical importance looms perhaps even larger: Darwin’s observation of differences between highland and lowland species helped him develop his theory of evolution.

Penguins

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The best-dressed bird in the biz isn’t exclusive to arctic climates. A cousin of South Africa’s banded penguins, Galapagos penguins are the only breed to live above the equator. They’re able to survive there thanks to the cool temperatures brought in by ocean currents.

Animals See + Do Travel Tips

Veronika Macas

When travel expert Veronika Macas isn’t skiing or cycling, she’s planning exceptional trips for B&R to exotic places all over the world. Splitting her time between Toronto and Switzerland, she still finds time to explore new destinations, climb the mountains of Peru or "glamp" out in the Galapagos!

PHOTO CREDITS

All photos by Veronika Macas

View or Add Comments

KAREN NORTON says:

Aug 20, 2014 at 11:19 am

Please send dates that your trips depart. We are looking for a trip for this upcoming January 2015.

Reply
1. Dave Bowden says:
  
  Aug 27, 2014 at 10:10 am
  
  Thanks for your inquiry Karen! I’ve passed it on to Tyler and the team, so someone will follow up with you shortly.
  
  Reply
Tracy Lee says:

Aug 20, 2014 at 11:51 am

What trips do you have available this December, starting anytime after December 21 and lasting 7-14 days? I am looking for a family of 4 with 2 kids aged 20 and 17.

Thanks ,

Tracy Lee

Reply
1. Dave Bowden says:
  
  Aug 27, 2014 at 10:09 am
  
  Hi Tracy,
  
  Unfortunately this December is all booked up, but I’ve passed your inquiry over to Tyler and our Private Travel team, who will follow up with you shortly.
  
  Reply
Stephen1001 says:

Feb 19, 2015 at 8:01 pm

I went scuba diving off Galapagos a few years ago – was hands down one of the best experiences of my life. Saw so many amazing animals! Got up close and personal with an extremely playful sea lion!

Reply