Just Back: Ecuador + the Galápagos Islands

Wildlife Wonderland

by Laurel Deacon

The Galápagos Islands have long been a dream for this animal lover—one that I never imagined would be possible as I sat in 7th-grade life science class. I am excited to share my recent adventures in Ecuador's perfect trifecta: Quito, its colonial capital city; the Galápagos Islands, home to wildlife found nowhere else on earth; and the Cloud Forest, nestled between the lowlands and highlands of the Andes Mountains.
 
Thanks to its UNESCO World Heritage Site status, Quito’s fascinating history remains well-preserved. The city's Spanish architecture appears in gold gilded doors and churches juxtaposed with cobblestone streets. This is also the place to visit lively local markets for brightly colored, handmade alpaca scarfs and ponchos.
 
I experienced complete cultural immersion, staying at a 16th-century working farm set in Otavalo, with the Andes Mountains as a backdrop. This breathtaking area was the perfect setting to horseback ride, hike, and picnic by a waterfall. For the epicurean, you can partake in cheese tasting, cooking classes, and sampling traditional meals. I was unexpectedly taken by the chocolate tasting. This particular sweet does not usually tempt me, but the local cacao had an enticing smooth and creamy flavor. 
 
The Cloud Forest was literally a breath of fresh air. The options to explore this unique environment ranged from sky-biking to forest walks with a naturalist. I had the pleasure of seeing sparkling bioluminescent bacteria, shimmering hummingbirds, and colorful butterflies.

Ecuador’s protection of the Galápagos Islands, a fragile ecosystem, allows its various species to roam free. Charles Darwin documented his findings in the revolutionary text On the Origin of Species, which details the “survival of the fittest” theory. In addition to giant tortoises and countless animals endemic to this area, he witnessed active volcanoes and iconic rock formations.

This Pacific archipelago has a range of habitats that attract and sustain specific wildlife. San Cristóbal Island is a birdwatcher's paradise. The iconic blue-footed, red-footed, and nazca boobies are native to this island. Frigatebirds flaunt their bright-red gular pouch during mating season and are joined by equally flamboyant flamingoes and pelicans. Santiago Island’s black lava fields contrast flora such as prickly pear cacti and fauna including orange sally lightfoot crabs.
 
Meanwhile, below sea level, snorkeling provides a glimpse into an underwater wonderland. Press pause on the world above the waves to watch a graceful sea lion ballet amongst green turtles and giant rays.

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