The Galapagos Islands archipelago, a province of Ecuador, is considered one of the world’s leading destinations for studying wildlife and natural landscapes. Unlike any other part of the world, it offers visitors a unique opportunity for exploration.

During this year’s February break, a group of SHS students and teacher chaperones visited this majestic corner of the world. After traveling on three planes–one to Miami, another to Ecuador, and a final flight to the Galapagos, the group traveled nine hours to reach this destination. 

One student who joined the trip, SHS junior Kelsea Lee, said, “I would one hundred percent recommend going on this trip! I miss it more and more every day, and someday I hope to return on my own.” Lee commented that her favorite part of the trip was experiencing the culture of the city of Quito. 

Special education teacher Roxanne Griffin, a chaperone on the trip, stated that her favorite parts were seeing the wildlife and snorkeling. She enjoyed watching the sea lions and tortoises and said the pristine blue waters and the wild marine life make the Galapagos one of the best places for snorkeling.

The SHS group participated in many activities, including hiking, conducting experiments, seeing a wild tortoise habitat, visiting Charles Darwin Research Station, swimming at the beaches, and exploring street markets. Students also went to the equator to stand in the southern hemisphere and the northern hemisphere at the same time.

Both Lee and Griffin were surprised by the amount of wildlife and the marine life they witnessed. Due to its extraordinary climate and incredible natural landscape, the Galapagos islands are considered a true paradise within South America. 

In addition to exploring nature, the group experienced the cultural differences between the United States and Ecuador, including different ways of dressing and speaking. Each region of Ecuador has its own special culture, and everything from clothes to food varies throughout Ecuador. Even different languages are being used in rural indigenous communities. 

Many people who visit the Galapagos Islands dream of moving there, and the students and staff who joined the trip expressed their gratitude for the opportunity. Each day was filled with different experiences they will always remember.