Snorkeling in the Galapagos
Galapagos is an incredible destination that is high on most traveler’s bucket lists. And, there are more opportunities for snorkeling than you might expect. Snorkeling experiences are offered on almost every trek and when staying at local hotels, there are also good snorkeling opportunities from local beaches. One of the reasons that snorkeling is offered is because of the it offers you a way to experience the Marine Reserve surrounding the Galapagos, which is one of the most biologically diverse regions in the world. Also, the Galapagos is home to 400 species of fish, of which more than 10% are only found in the Galapagos (endemic).
It is surprising that many travelers are unaware of this, and that many non-swimmers don’t participate in the numerous snorkeling activities. In order to make the most of your trip to Galapagos, it’s best to be prepared to snorkel.
The water is brisk! It is the Pacific and if you have been to California or Hawaii, you know what this means. But, never fear, tour operators offer wet suits, some at a small fee. You may feel like you don’t need a wet suit, but a wet suit will allow you to stay in the water longer, since you won’t be using all of your energy to stay warm. Also, the wet suit protects your back against sunburn and your body against scrapes.
There are strong currents. So, always stay with a buddy and wear your flotation device. If you encounter a strong current, don’t hesitate to wave to your expert tour guide, who will be able to help you. It may also help you to practice swimming laps and build up your strength and endurance before traveling to the Galapagos. Also, fins will help with any currents you may experience. If you don’t know how to swim, your trip to the Galapagos may just be your motivator to learn!
Locals in Galapagos fish! So, while the fish are plentiful and you do see many of them while snorkeling, they aren’t totally unafraid. But the Sea Turtles hang out. I loved watching the Sea turtles while snorkeling. They definitely did not seem afraid and would continue to feed and stay close to the shore even though there were snorkelers watching their every move. This was the best viewing of sea turtles that I have ever experienced.
The Galapagos endemic Marine Iguanas are also fun to watch while snorkeling. They can be seen on the rocks, underneath the water, feeding on seaweed. They can remain submerged for up to an hour. It’s very surreal to watch.
Face masks, fins and flotation devices are all provided by your tour operator. However, you may want to get fitted for and bring your own face mask. A fitted mask prevents problems with water leakage, fogging and also provides for options for visually corrected lenses. Additionally, you can practice, at home, with your mask and then you’ll snorkel like a pro, when you arrive. If you are going to purchase a mask locally, then I would also recommend pairing it with a snorkel. Snorkels are inexpensive, and can easily be hooked up to your mask. Local dive shops can assist fitting a mask to your face, and selecting the perfect snorkel. Finally, you may also want to consider purchasing your own life vest. Some of the higher end life vests offered by dive shops provide for easier snorkeling and buoyancy, and you then can also take this life vest on other vacations, in the future. Fins are so bulky; I don’t recommend bringing them, as your tour operator will have plenty of fins to chose from.
Snorkeling is a lot of fun, and opens your eyes to an entire under water world, when you are prepared. For your once in a lifetime Galapagos experience, you will want to dive right in!
