Galapagos originates from the Spanish word galapago, which historically meant (saddle) but also referred to the giant tortoises found on the islands, particularly their distinctive saddle-shaped shells. The islands were named by early Spanish explorers who noticed these unique tortoises. Over time, the term (Galapagos) became synonymous with the unique volcanic archipelago known for its extraordinary wildlife and role in the development of Darwin's theory of evolution.

Trip Planning

I might have my 86th birthday in the Galapagos Islands, in 2025 for my 85th birthday I went to Iceland, my 84th year was in Australia in 2024. My 80th in Dubai, Oman, India and Sri Lanka!

I even decided to buy myself more of my favorite sunglasses that have frames of either green or yellow. I want to look good when I get to the Galapagos Islands.

I have wanted for years, to see the Galapagos Islands and the animal life there. I have been to Easter Island and other islands in the Pacific.

Even the Farallon Islands 15 miles from San Francisco and the Channel Islands 10 miles from Long Beach! The Greek Islands, the Indonesian Islands, New Zealand, Fiji and more!

I saw an ad and checked out the pricing as most trips to the islands are expensive. They do have shared rooms for a basic price. Not too bad if one is only there for five days or so.

The tour company was great. They thought if I was going to be 86, better for a private tour from the start to the finish!

This link will provide you with an overview of the islands.

Overview of the Gapapagos Islands

This link will provide you with some basic information that Darwin found out about as he sailed around the islands.

Darwin and the Gapapagos Islands

Columbus Travel and Billing

My travel agent, Manuela Alves, has been so helpful and seems to know what I need to do on the trip before I do! At my age, celebrating my 86th birthday, better to be safe than sorry, especially when touring places like the Galapagos Islands that might be difficult to walk around on.

This link will detail payments for the trip to the islands.

Payment Activities for the Gapapagos Islands Vacation

Ecuadorian Money & Visa

Money: Ecuador adopted the U.S. dollar on 13 April 2000 as its national currency and on 11 September, the country eliminated the Ecuadorian sucre, in order to stabilize the country's economy. The U.S. Dollar has been the only official currency of Ecuador since then.

Visa: Most nationalities do not need a visa for tourist or business stays of up to 90 days in Ecuador and receive a 90-day stamp upon arrival. However, for stays longer than 90 days, or for specific purposes like work or study, you must obtain a temporary resident visa from an Ecuadorian consulate in your home country. Key requirements for a longer stay visa include a passport valid for at least six months, proof of financial solvency, a criminal record check, and a return ticket, with some documents requiring apostille and official Spanish translation.

Galapagos Electrical Outlets

Good news, the electrical outlets are the same as the USA.

Galapagos Map and Flag

The Galapagos Islands are a volcanic archipelago known for their unique and diverse ecosystems, inspiring Charles Darwin's theory of evolution.

Located in the Pacific Ocean, about 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, the islands are a UNESCO World Heritage site and a National Park, famous for their endemic species and stunning landscapes.

The Galapagos Islands flag features green, white, and blue stripes.

Green represents the abundant vegetation and fertile highlands.

White symbolizes the purity of the people and the emptiness of the arid lowlands.

The blue stripe signifies the surrounding Pacific Ocean and its rich marine life.

Flight Information

I will fly into Ecuador from San Francisco and over night in Quito. I asked for an extra day in Quito as the flight times are too tight for me to relax from the flights before flying to the islands. The next day I will fly on to the Galapagos Islands.

Travel Guide Insurance

At my age, I usually take out insurance just in case there is a problem before I go on a trip.

Map of World Travels

Here are locations of places I have visited over the years!

Island Destinations - 1961 to 2026

I have created a listing so far, all of the islands I have visited over the years! The first time I went to an island was in December of 1961, over Christmas and the New Year, 1962, from the midwest to the Bahamas! Now I have multiple islands to view as I look at the San Francisco Bay!