Explorer’s Journal: Island-Hop the Galápagos with Destination Expert Melissa

Join Destination Expert Melissa on her extraordinary journey through the Galápagos Islands, where she experienced some of the world’s most unique wildlife, dramatic landscapes, and rich ecological history. From the historic highlands of Quito to kayaking with sea lions off Española Island and witnessing rare wildlife encounters, Melissa’s itinerary blended adventure, conservation, and awe-inspiring natural beauty. 

Hi! I’m Destination Expert Melissa. Join me as I share highlights from my recent expedition to the Galápagos—a place I’ve long dreamed of exploring. From watching blue-footed boobies dance to spotting wild orcas, every day revealed something magical. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply craving a once-in-a-lifetime escape, I hope my experience sparks ideas for your own island adventure. 

Touching down in Quito 

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Exploring the town of Quito, the capital of Ecuador. (Photo: Melissa Dreffs)

Before heading to the Galápagos, we eased into the vacation mindset with a day in Ecuador’s capital, Quito. Nestled high in the Andes at nearly 9,400 feet, Quito surprised us with its rich colonial history and dramatic mountain views. 

We started with a classic city tour, wandering the cobbled streets of the historic center—a UNESCO World Heritage site. Ornate churches and bustling plazas offered a glimpse into Ecuador’s vibrant culture and deep-rooted traditions. 

Next, we took the “Teleférico,” a cable car that whisked us to nearly 13,000 feet above sea level. The views over Quito were breathtaking, and the crisp mountain air was the perfect breath of fresh perspective before heading to the islands. 

To close the day, we enjoyed an unforgettable meal at Nuema, often considered the best restaurant in the country. Every course celebrated ingredients, flavors, and stories from across Ecuador. 

Welcome to the Galápagos 

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Starting our cruise off with sea lions and sunset views! (Photo: Melissa Dreffs)

We’ve officially landed in the Galápagos! After a short flight from mainland Ecuador, we touched down on San Cristóbal, the easternmost island and our first stop aboard the Galaxy yacht. 

Our introduction began with a visit to the Interpretation Center, where we learned about the unique geology, wildlife, and conservation efforts that make the Galápagos so special. It reminded us that these islands are more than beautiful—they’re alive with purpose and history. 

Afterward, we wandered the small harbor town, where sea lions lounge like locals along the boardwalk and benches. The pace here is slower, the air saltier, and the pull to be present stronger. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the sky lit up in soft pinks and golds—a perfect welcome to this wild, wonderful world. 

Birds, beaches, and breathtaking silence 

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Exploring San Cristóbal Island and spotting blue-footed boobies. (Photo: Melissa Dreffs)

Checking in from San Cristóbal! Today we explored Witch Hill and Punta Pitt, two strikingly different corners of the island. The morning began with a zodiac ride and a stroll along powdery white sands at Witch Hill, where turquoise waters meet volcanic rock. The only “crowds” were curious sea lions, scuttling crabs, and pelicans diving for breakfast. 

In the afternoon, we landed at Punta Pitt, known for its dramatic cliffs and booby nesting sites. This is one of the few places in the islands where you can see three booby species at once: blue-footed, red-footed, and Nazca boobies all share this space. A highlight was watching blue-footed boobies perform their signature quirky courtship dance—it felt like front-row seats to one of nature’s most charming performances. 

Out here, without digital distractions, you start to notice everything: the rustle of wind through cactus groves, the calls of seabirds overhead, the shifting colors in the sky. Each moment feels vivid. Wild. Real. Exactly the kind of connection we came for. 

Española Island: where wildlife steals the show  

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Destination Expert Melissa exploring the wonders of Española Island. (Photo: Melissa Dreffs)

Day 4 brought us to Española Island, and it just kept getting better. 

We hiked Suarez Point, one of the most wildlife-rich spots in the Galápagos. The trail winds through rocky landscapes to dramatic cliffs, where waved albatrosses nest in the open. It’s one of the few places in the world where you can see these massive seabirds up close—they mate for life and return here each year to breed. Watching their mating dance was one of the most memorable experiences of my life. 

In the afternoon, we kayaked through the inlets of Española before heading to Gardner Bay for a swim in crystal-clear waters. The white sand beach was peaceful, with sea lions napping in the sun and waves providing the only soundtrack. No distractions—just nature in full surround sound. 

Post Office Bay and snorkeling with sea lions 

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A day of snorkeling with sea lions on Floreana Island! (Photo: Melissa Dreffs)

Today’s adventure took us to Floreana Island. We began at Cormorant Point, a stunning landing with green-sand beaches where we spotted pieces of peridot glittering in the sun. A short walk led us to a lagoon with bright pink flamingos feeding in the shallows, and then on to another beach—an important nesting site for green sea turtles. 

Later, we visited centuries-old Post Office Bay, where sailors once left letters in a wooden barrel for others to hand-deliver. The tradition continues today—we flipped through postcards to take home and left a few of our own, trusting in the magic of slow travel. 

But the true highlight? Snorkeling at Champion Island. Sea lions zipped past us in the water, while colorful fish darted through the reef. And just when we thought the day couldn’t get better, our zodiac encountered something rare and thrilling: a pod of wild orcas slicing through the waves in the late afternoon sun. No camera could capture that moment—but it’s etched in memory forever. 

Preserving the Galápagos legacy 

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Checking out the giant tortoise breeding program at Charles Darwin Research Station. (Photo: Melissa Dreffs)

For our last day, we landed on Santa Cruz, the most developed island in the Galápagos, to visit the Charles Darwin Research Station—the heart of the conservation efforts that have helped preserve the islands’ remarkable biodiversity. We learned about giant tortoise breeding programs and met long-necked residents of all ages. 

After days of being surrounded by untouched landscapes and wild creatures, it felt fitting to end where science, history, and hope for the future converge. 

Then it was off to the airport, back to Quito, and onward home—hearts full and minds buzzing with all we’d seen. 

We may now be reconnected to the “real world,” but part of us is still out there: on the sand, in the sea, under the stars. Recharged, and more connected than ever to this planet we call home. 

Thanks for following along on my journey through the Galápagos. I hope these stories brought the islands to life and sparked your sense of wonder for this incredible corner of the world. Inspired to create your own Galápagos adventure? Reach out to start planning!