Galapagos Islands Tour Company Takes Travelers to Snorkel With Sea Lions, Swim on White-sand Beaches, and Go Kayaking

"On my five-day expedition cruise with Metropolitan Touring I discovered they’re the longest-running tour operator in the archipelago and the creator of the 'Big 15'—a 2016-conceived animal-spotting challenge that helps travelers choose the right itineraries by showing which species appear on which routes (for example, Galapagos penguins are only on the Northern, Western, and Southeastern itineraries). They helped Galapagos National Park develop its tourism model decades ago, run their operations entirely carbon neutral since 2019, and place sustainability and education at the core of their trips. Guides were knowledgeable and instrumental in helping us spot 11 of the Big 15 species, and every day felt well organized with morning and afternoon activities—hiking, kayaking, snorkeling with playful sea lions and sea turtles—with less strenuous options available; between activities we relaxed in the library, hot tub, or on the sun deck, and meals included hearty breakfasts and incredible three-course lunches and dinners." - Jessica Poitevien Jessica Poitevien Jessica Poitevien is an international storyteller and regular contributor to Travel + Leisure. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines