Million Air Summer 2020

63 elite traveler SUMMER 2020

DARWIN’ S MUSE GALÁPAGOS ISLANDS

Galápagos Islands hold some of the most important protected natural areas in the world; they are home to several endemic species, including Galápagos tortoises, marine iguanas, Galápagos (or Darwin’s) finches, flightless cormorants and Galápagos fur seals, plus unique crabs, seabirds, sea lions and fish. This archipelago of 21 volcanic islands is located 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador; the isolated location, as well as the subtropical climate, is what has allowed these unique species to thrive. The landscapes vary wildly; there are dramatic cliffs, thick mangroves, black volcanic rock, lava tubes and white-sand beaches, all surrounded by turquoise ocean. Naturalist and geologist Charles Darwin made the Galápagos famous in the mid-19th century when a visit here to study wildlife helped him develop his theory of evolution. Not only are the islands beautiful, but there is plenty to do, see and learn while here, including how we can further protect this special part of the world. The best way to explore the islands is by boat, and one of the newest, and more elegant, ways to see it all is aboard Silversea’s Silver Origin . Unlike any expedition ship you’ve seen, Silver Origin is more like a private yacht than a cruise ship in both design and size, hosting just 100 people at a time. The ship employs environmentally conscious technology (including dynamic positioning technology that forgoes the use of an anchor so as to not damage underlying sea beds), uses reverse osmosis and is plastic-free. View wildlife from the indoor and outdoor Explorer Lounge (complete with an outdoor fire pit), and Basecamp, which has information on all of the unique flora and fauna. The ship has a large selection of Zodiacs for closer exploring, plus fantastic excursions like snorkeling, hiking and getting up close and personal with the endemic species. -ER From $17,820 per person. Contact Silversea, +1 855 486 0912, silversea.com

Photos Silversea, Shutterstock