Beaches Latin America

Lesley Murphy Takes The Galapagos

Hola! My name is Lesley, and I’m a luxury-adventure travel blogger for The Road Les Traveled. I’ll be taking you 600 miles off the coast of South America today to the enchanted islands of the Galapagos! While this sea lion pup may look like it’s on it’s last breath, it’s just relaxing in the sun on Sante Fe Island. If they aren’t playing around with each other in the ocean, this is normally how they all spend their time – beach bums!


One of my Galapagos bucket list items is scuba diving with sharks During our morning dive off. During our morning dive off of North Seymour Island, I’m able to get up close and personal with this white tip shark! They’re the only sharks that can be still on the bottom of the ocean. It’s exhilarating to be so close. During my second dive, I swim with 7 hammerheads later that day!

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After my close encounter with sharks, it’s now time to get some much needed Ecuadorian sun. Feeling like royalty as we sail from island to island, this yacht owned by was once Princess Grace Kelly’s honeymoon yacht! There is so much more history than meets the eye.

In the afternoon we head to Genovesa Island which incorporates a volcanic caldera whose wall has collapsed, forming the Great Darwin Bay. Many species of birds are known to live here alongside sea lions, Sally light foot crabs and even nearby hammerheads.

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This photo is taken immediately after we discover a giant tortoise in the wild on Fernandina Island. Another item on my Galapagos bucket list, I knew I could leave happy and extremely satisfied.

I can’t leave Ecuador without visiting the mainland. One of the coolest adventures involves the Swing at the End of the World in Baños, Ecuador, about 2 1/2 hours from the Capital of Quito. If you go, hold on tight! The fall below is a long way down. Thanks for joining me on my take over! Happy travels y’all!

Galapagos Quick Tips:

  • A maximum of 20 kg (44 pounds) of luggage is allowed on flights to the Galapagos (excluding your handbag and carry on) or pay $2 per extra kg
  • A Galapagos Entrance fee of $100 in cash and $10 Control Cards are to be paid at the airport or ahead of time with your tour
  • No need for money exchange here as Ecuador’s currency is the US dollar-how convenient
  • Bring small bills for shopping & tipping as many places do not have change
  • Galapagos Islands are on Central Standard Time
  • Average Water Temperatures:
    January – June: 70°F – 80°F (20°C – 26°C)
    July – December: 65°F – 75°F (18°C- 23°C)
  • ATMs and Wi-Fi can be found on San Cristobal and Santa Cruz Islands
  • Electricity is 110V with 2 flat pronged socket

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