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jojo 07-19-2025 06:29 AM

Travel gurus in The Villages?
 
I would like to go to the Galapagos but want to do so more conservatively than in my younger days. My Google research turned up tours with "wet" landings and rocky steep trails etc. which indicated perhaps a more adventurous experience than I need. Note I did do Macchu Picchu in March and made it to the top. I am looking for someone or a travel agent who might be knowledgeable about the Galapagos and who might point me to some options.

biker1 07-19-2025 06:38 AM

We were there recently. There were some wet landings but nothing that most people can't handle; typically swing your legs over the side of the inflatable boat and slide down to the sand. If you were OK navigating around Machu Picchu (we were there as part of the same trip to the Galapagos) then you will be fine. Regarding trails, many were rocky but only a few had some steep spots, not unlike parts of Machu Picchu. You should bring a walking stick.

Regarding options, we used OAT; small group of 14 plus guide. The average age of the folks on our trip was upper 60's but all reasonably mobile. The guides are accustomed to older folks but you do need to have good mobility. If you normally walk with a cane then a trip with OAT would not be advised. There may be outfitters that cater to mobility challenged folks.

Quote:

Originally Posted by jojo (Post 2446825)
I would like to go to the Galapagos but want to do so more conservatively than in my younger days. My Google research turned up tours with "wet" landings and rocky steep trails etc. which indicated perhaps a more adventurous experience than I need. Note I did do Macchu Picchu in March and made it to the top. I am looking for someone or a travel agent who might be knowledgeable about the Galapagos and who might point me to some options.


dtennent 07-19-2025 06:59 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jojo (Post 2446825)
I would like to go to the Galapagos but want to do so more conservatively than in my younger days. My Google research turned up tours with "wet" landings and rocky steep trails etc. which indicated perhaps a more adventurous experience than I need. Note I did do Macchu Picchu in March and made it to the top. I am looking for someone or a travel agent who might be knowledgeable about the Galapagos and who might point me to some options.

We went with National Geograhic and enjoyed it very much. My sister used Happy Gringo. You really need to get on the islands to see the wildlife. If you did Machu Picchu, you should be able to handle this.

npwalters 07-20-2025 10:15 AM

I went last year and took a small boat tour. 16 people and a very active schedule. I’m 74 and in pretty good shape and enjoyed it. The hikes are a piece of cake but the snorkeling took some effort.

I’d recommend the National Geographic tour if you are concerned. They tend to be less stressful because on the larger ship you can opt out of an activity and just hang out on the ship.

HappyTraveler 07-20-2025 03:11 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by biker1 (Post 2446827)
Regarding options, we used OAT; small group of 14 plus guide. The average age of the folks on our trip was upper 60's but all reasonably mobile. The guides are accustomed to older folks but you do need to have good mobility. If you normally walk with a cane then a trip with OAT would not be advised. There may be outfitters that cater to mobility challenged folks.

I doubt the commenter knows what OAT is.

Overseas Adventure Travel Best Time to Travel to Galapagos | Galapagos Travel | Overseas Adventure Travel

jojo 07-21-2025 05:15 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by HappyTraveler (Post 2447306)
I doubt the commenter knows what OAT is.

Overseas Adventure Travel Best Time to Travel to Galapagos | Galapagos Travel | Overseas Adventure Travel

Thank you. I have traveled with OAT and they are a good company, usually with smaller groups.


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