What is the best way to travel to the Galapagos Islands?
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An incredible view of the marine world is possible only for expert divers who dive into the depths of the ocean, except in the Galapagos, here everyone enjoys the diversity of the sea.
In the cold season, when the water currents flood the Galapagos with all the food that will bring countless marine species to enjoy the tranquility of this Reserve, people usually visit the islands also to live unforgettable experiences inside and outside the ocean, but without Without a doubt, the most memorable experience is snorkeling alongside tropical fish, turtles, sharks and, of course, rays.
How many species of Galapagos Rays will I be able to see?
There are around 15 types of rays in the Galapagos, but there are four species that are usually easily seen.
Giant stingray
They are the largest specimens of the striped species; From the yacht they are usually seen jumping in the middle of the sea; and although many believe that its tail is highly poisonous, that is not true, although we do not recommend that you get too close.
They are calm creatures, and are not dangerous to those who snorkel in the Galapagos, in fact their interaction with visitors has been curious and peaceful.
Giant manta rays are very beautiful and are especially praised for the way they move in the water, moving their pectoral fins up and down simulating flight in the sea. They feed on plankton and fish larvae so you certainly have nothing to fear, so don’t be intimidated by their size, as it is true that they can measure 9 meters in length.
Spotted sea eagle stingray
This cartilaginous animal lives in shallow coastal waters, they roam the tropical seas and can be seen especially on the west coast of the Pacific.
Those who snorkel in the Galapagos Islands identify the eagle rays by their flattened body and their various yellow and white spots on the dorsal surface. They also have an elongated whip-shaped tail that contains a toxic substance that, fortunately, is not fatal to animals. humans. However, that should not worry you, the rays are peaceful and not aggressive, although it is best to keep a safe distance from them.
Golden stingray
The golden stingray is a specimen of the color of the sand at the bottom of the sea, however they prefer the calm waters of the coast in coves and mangroves. They are smaller than giant manta rays and eagle rays.
When you dive into the water you should keep your eyes open, they like to lie down on the sand to camouflage themselves with the seabed.
Among the places where you are most likely to see golden rays are the coasts of Isabela, Santa Cruz, Floreana and Santiago Island.
Galapagos stingray
These stripes are gray and measure around 2 meters. It is quite difficult to see them because they usually hide under a layer of sand in shallow areas. They hunt at night and usually feed on mollusks and small fish.
Something you should know is that, although many people tend to fear them, they are not dangerous. It is true that they have a toxic stinger in their tail but they only use it when they have to defend themselves from sharks and killer whales.
Where can I see more rays in the Galapagos?
Although the Galapagos has a good climate throughout the year and the possibility of seeing rays is quite high from January to December; Yes, there are seasons when the Pacific Ocean is flooded with beautiful marine diversity. So from December to May is our recommendation if you want to observe rays in the Galapagos.
Some of the visitor’s favorite places include: North Seymour, Floreana, Santiago Island and Chinese Hat Island; Other highlights include Gordon Rocks and Darwin and Wolf Islands.
How can I see rays in the Galapagos?
The way you can swim near these species is by snorkeling or diving, there are incredible places where visitors can dive with stingrays. One of them is Santa Cruz Island.
In shallow waters it is also possible to see them by boat, especially at the Puerto Ayora Dock, a good option for those who do not plan to dive into the sea.
It should be noted that the Galapagos Islands are a place of great marine biodiversity, so it is possible to find other species of rays in the region, but these three are the most notable and well-known.
Is it easy to snorkel in the Galapagos?
Yes, snorkeling is a fairly accessible activity in the Galapagos Islands and is one of the most popular ways to explore the crystal clear waters full of marine life of this region. Here are some reasons why snorkeling is easy to practice in the Galapagos:
Calm waters: Generally, the waters surrounding the Galapagos Islands are quite calm and protected, which makes snorkeling more comfortable and safer, especially for beginners. When you purchase a tour to this archipelago, find out the state of the tide in the season in which you will travel and enjoy your trip.
Exceptional visibility: The waters of the Galapagos offer exceptional visibility, meaning you can clearly see marine life and coral reefs without problems.
Equipment available: Most tour operators and cruises in the Galapagos offer snorkeling equipment for rent or as part of their tour packages, so there is no need to bring your own equipment. If you need help putting on the equipment correctly, you can turn to your guide.
Experienced guides: Many Galapagos snorkeling tours are led by experienced guides who know the best places to practice this activity and can provide you with information about the marine life you encounter.
That said, it is important to remember that although snorkeling is generally a safe and accessible activity, it is essential to follow your guide’s safety instructions and have a basic level of swimming skill, as some areas may have changing currents or conditions. It is also essential to respect the marine environment and not touch or disturb marine life or corals.
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