Arrival and First Impressions

The moment we touched down at San Cristobal Airport, I could feel the excitement bubbling up in my family. The Galapagos Islands had always been on our bucket list, and now we were finally here! Our driver was waiting for us, and soon we were whisked away to our cozy hotel in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. The kids were thrilled to see the ocean so close, and I could already tell this was going to be a trip to remember.

Our first day was packed with activities, starting with a kayak experience on a nearby beach. The gentle waves and clear waters made it perfect for the kids, and they were soon paddling like pros. After a delicious lunch, we headed to Playa Mann, a stunning white sand beach just a short walk from the village. The kids were over the moon to see sea lions lounging on the shore, and we spent the afternoon snorkeling and building sandcastles.

The day ended with a Ceviche Cooking Class, where we met the delightful Mrs. Barbara. She taught us how to make the most delicious ceviche using fresh local ingredients. Even the kids got involved, and we all enjoyed the fruits of our labor. It was a perfect way to end our first day in the Galapagos.

Exploring Kicker Rock and Beyond

The next morning, we were up bright and early for our trip to Kicker Rock. Known for its dramatic volcanic formations, this landmark did not disappoint. As we approached by speedboat, the kids were fascinated by the towering rocks and the story of how they got their name. The snorkeling here was out of this world, with an abundance of marine life including sharks and manta rays. It was an unforgettable experience for the whole family.

After returning to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, we had some free time to explore the village. The kids loved visiting the local shops and trying out some of the island’s unique snacks. We also took a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, soaking in the beautiful views and the relaxed island vibe.

The following day, we took a short flight to Isabela Island. The aerial views of the Galapagos were breathtaking, and the kids were glued to the windows the entire time. Once we arrived, we settled into our new hotel and prepared for more adventures.

Adventures on Isabela and Santa Cruz

Isabela Island offered a whole new set of experiences, starting with a visit to the Flamingo Lagoon. The kids were amazed by the vibrant pink birds and the serene beauty of the lagoon. We then rented bikes and set off on a family biking adventure to the Giant Tortoise Breeding Center. Seeing these gentle giants up close was a highlight for all of us, and the kids learned so much about the conservation efforts in place to protect them.

Our snorkeling tour at Los Tuneles was another unforgettable experience. The unique geological formations and the diverse marine life made it a snorkeling paradise. The kids were thrilled to spot sea turtles and even a few playful sea lions.

Our final stop was Santa Cruz Island, where we visited the highlands to see more giant tortoises in their natural habitat. The kids loved the interactive experience, and it was a great way to wrap up our Galapagos adventure. We also spent a relaxing day at Tortuga Bay, enjoying the pristine beach and the company of marine iguanas.

As we prepared to leave the Galapagos, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the incredible memories we had made as a family. This trip was the perfect blend of education and fun, and I knew it would be a cherished experience for years to come. If you’re looking for a family-friendly adventure that combines learning with unforgettable experiences, the Galapagos Islands should be at the top of your list!