Have you ever dreamed of snorkeling with playful sea lions? Marveling at giant tortoises in the wild -- the islands’ namesake?  Swimming with penguins in tropical waters? Watching the courtship ‘dance’ of a blue-footed booby? Or staring into the eyes of a motionless marine iguana? These are just some of the experiences you can have in the Galápagos Islands -- clearly one of the most impressive places on Earth. Nowhere else in the world can you immerse yourself with wildlife in such a natural setting, a land where animals have never developed a fear of humans.

Located 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, these isolated, volcanic islands were the inspiration for Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution. And this year being Darwin’s 200th birthday, there is no better time to visit and celebrate.

To preserve and protect these unique islands, no mega cruise ships are allowed to travel here. The Ecuadorian government regulates the number of visitors at one time so as not to overwhelm and harm the wildlife in any way.

Accompanied by licensed guides, people of all ages can explore this archipelago and discover what Darwin did centuries ago – the extraordinary wonders of the Galápagos.

Celebrity Cruises
Aboard Celebrity Xpedition
Year-round weekly departures

Traveling with 90 guests, you’ll explore 10 different islands in the archipelago on these all-inclusive voyages. You may enjoy special Celebrity touches such as plush Frette bathrobes, hot tub, sauna and fitness center. Choose from a 7-night cruise-only voyage, 10- or 11-night voyage including 3 or 4 nights in Quito, Ecuador’s capital, or a 13-night adventure including the best of Peru -- Cuzco, Lima and Machu Picchu -- following your Galápagos voyage.

Lindblad Expeditions
Aboard National Geographic Endeavour or Islander
Year-round 10-day voyages departing every Friday & Saturday

With more than 40 years’ experience in travel to the Land of Darwin, Lindblad is also the only U.S. company to own and operate two ships there year-round. Their expert hand-picked Naturalists, nimble Zodiacs and kayaks, and an innovative undersea program (underwater video, glass-bottom boat, hydrophone for seldom heard sounds), add significant value to your Galápagos experience. Their unique partnership with National Geographic shows further commitment to their conservation efforts, currently raising more than $4.5 million towards local projects on the islands. Limited time offer of up to 25% off select departures.

Wilderness Travel
Aboard Sagitta, The Mary Anne, The Beagle
Year-round departures

Aboard 12-16 passenger luxury yachts, these small group adventures are the ultimate way to go for your Galápagos explorations. As one of the leaders in adventure travel, these 7- or 11-day active trips with Wilderness provide amazing snorkeling and nature hikes. You may choose how active you’d like to be and may wish to combine your Galápagos voyage and discover the highlands of Ecuador; Sacha, Ecuador’s premier wildlife lodge in Amazonia; or the wonders of Peru.

Tauck Tours
Aboard Isabela II
July, August, October 2009 departures

On this exclusive yacht for 40 guests, this 10-day voyage to the Enchanted Isles displays the extraordinary quality and value that Tauck is known for. The Isabela II, which has been recently renovated, has all outside staterooms and provides the perfect home base for your in-depth sightseeing of the Galápagos. These voyages are all-inclusive, even wine with dinner and gratuities to the Tauck Director and ship staff.