Some trips stay with you long after you return home. Not because they are busy or dramatic, but because they quietly change the way you see the world. For Rob Jacobs, Sales Team Manager at Latin Routes, his first journey to the Galapagos Islands in November was exactly that.
“I expected it to be special,” Rob says, “but I did not expect how much it would slow me down. The Galapagos makes you pay attention. You stop rushing, stop planning the next thing, and just take in what is happening around you.” First impressions of the Galapagos Islands
From the moment he arrived, Rob felt the Galapagos operated on different terms.
“You realise very quickly that nature comes first here,” he explains. “Nothing feels rushed or overdeveloped. You are stepping into a protected environment, and you feel that responsibility straight away.” Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island was busier than Rob expected, but it made sense as a gateway to the wider archipelago.
“It is definitely more developed than I imagined,” he says, “but once you move beyond it, everything becomes calmer and more remote.” 
Moving between the islands
Rob’s journey took him across Santa Cruz Island, Isabela, Fernandina and Santiago Island. The landscapes were raw, volcanic and shaped entirely by nature.
““The Galapagos surprised me visually,” Rob says. “It really is stunning. You have beautiful beaches, volcanic landscapes, rock pools and so much plant life. No matter where you go, the views are incredible. It does not feel curated or artificial, it just feels natural.” 
Time spent travelling between islands became part of the experience.
“Being on the water was one of my favourite parts,” he says. “You are always looking out, never quite knowing what you are about to see next.” 
Wildlife moments that stayed with him
Wildlife encounters in the Galapagos felt natural rather than staged.
“There was one moment on a panga where we suddenly realised how many different species we had seen in just a few minutes,” Rob recalls. “It was not planned. It just happened. That is when it really hits you how unique this place is.” What stood out most was how relaxed the animals were around people.
“They are not performing for you,” he says. “You are simply observing, and that feels incredibly special.”
Where did Rob stay
On Santa Cruz Island, Rob stayed at Finch Bay, a hotel that reflects the wider ethos of the Galapagos Islands.
“What I liked most was how genuine it felt,” he explains. “The team really care about the islands. Sustainability is not a headline, it is just part of everyday life there.” While the rooms were slightly smaller than some travellers might expect, Rob felt it suited the experience.
“You are there to explore,” he says. “You eat well, head out each day, and come back tired in the best possible way.” Food became an unexpected highlight of the trip.
“The ceviche was incredible,” Rob says. “Fresh, simple, and perfect after a day out on the water. Ending the evening with a pisco sour quickly became a ritual.” 
Sustainability you feel part of
What stayed with Rob most was how sustainability was woven into everyday experiences.
“You are constantly reminded to be mindful of water, waste and your impact,” he explains. “But it never feels forced. You understand why it matters, and that makes you want to do your part.” 
Who the Galapagos Islands are best for
For Rob, the Galapagos suits travellers looking for something deeper.
“This is not a destination where you switch off completely,” he says. “It is for people who are curious, who enjoy being active, and who want to come home having learned something.” 
Rob's Top Tip
For Rob, one of the biggest takeaways was how flexible the Galapagos can be.
“It really is a year round destination,” he explains. “Each season offers something different, so there is no bad time to go.” He also believes the best way to experience the islands is by staying on a boat.
“If you want to see multiple islands properly, being on a boat makes a huge difference,” Rob says. “You reach places you simply cannot get to if you stay on land. It feels more remote, more immersive, and much closer to nature.” 
Final reflections
Looking back, Rob describes the Galapagos Islands as quietly powerful.
“It is not loud or showy,” he reflects. “It stays with you. You come away with a real appreciation for the natural world and for how carefully it is protected. It is somewhere I would love to return to.” If the Galapagos Islands are on your wish list, our travel specialists can help create a tailor-made journey that allows you to experience this extraordinary destination in a thoughtful and responsible way. Get in touch with Latin Routes to start planning your Galapagos Islands holiday.
Read more about the Galapagos Islands here
FAQs
When is the best time to visit the Galapagos Islands?
The Galapagos Islands are a year round destination, with each season offering different wildlife encounters, weather conditions and water visibility. There is no bad time to visit, just different experiences throughout the year.
What is the best way to explore multiple Galapagos Islands?
Staying on a boat is the best way to explore multiple islands. It allows access to remote locations that cannot be reached from land-based hotels and offers a more immersive experience in nature.
What type of traveller is Galapagos Islands travel best suited for?
Galapagos Islands travel is ideal for travellers who are wildlife focused, curious and enjoy active exploration. It suits those looking to learn, observe nature and experience destinations responsibly.
How active is a trip to the Galapagos Islands?
Trips typically involve daily excursions, short walks, snorkelling and time spent on the water. Activities are well paced and designed to suit a range of fitness levels, with expert guides supporting each experience.
How does sustainability shape travel in the Galapagos Islands?
Sustainability is central to Galapagos Islands travel. Visitor numbers are controlled, conservation projects are ongoing, and travellers are encouraged to follow responsible practices to protect wildlife and natural habitats.
