Destinations
Traveling without a sailboat – on your own terms. In our "Destinations" category, we share impressions, experiences, and tips from places we've explored on foot, by car, or by other means. From island hopping in the Azores to a road trip through Portugal – here you'll find our highlights, insider tips, and personal recommendations off the beaten track.
Peace, nature and giant tortoises everywhere – the giants of evolution
Anyone visiting the Galápagos Islands will sooner or later encounter their most famous inhabitants: the Galápagos giant tortoises. Their size and shell shape vary slightly from island to island – a detail that later became important for Charles Darwin's research. They are arguably the most recognizable symbol of the Galápagos Islands – stoic, calm, and impressively ancient. They were easiest to spot on Santa Cruz Island...
The most elegant fishermen of the Galápagos Islands.
The pelicans of the Galápagos Islands are an integral part of daily life on the islands. They are especially prevalent in the small harbors and along the beaches – often just a few meters away. With a wingspan of up to 2 meters, brown pelicans are among the largest seabirds in the Galápagos. Weight: approx. 2–5 kg. Even in the early morning, the pelicans circle above the small...
Between volcanoes and giant tortoises: an encounter with the largest cactus in the Galápagos Islands – if not the entire world…
When traveling through the Galápagos Islands, it looks almost like an alien tree: the giant Galápagos prickly pear cactus, usually called Opuntia echios. Reaching heights of up to about 12 meters, it is one of the largest tree-like cacti in the world and the largest cactus in the Galápagos Islands. Particularly impressive specimens can be found on Santa Cruz Island. Unlike the typical...
Santa Cruz Galápagos – The Heart of the Galápagos Islands
Mai 2026 Puerto Ayora – The Gateway to the Galápagos Islands. Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island is the tourist center of the Galápagos Islands and, for many visitors, the ideal starting point for exploring this unique archipelago. Along the harbor promenade, travelers encounter sea lions, pelicans, and fishing boats, while numerous restaurants, cafes, and tour operators create a lively atmosphere. The pier of...
Trip to the Galapagos Islands – What it costs and what makes them so special
Mai 2026 The Galápagos Islands consist of 13 main islands: Isabela, Santa Cruz, Fernandina, Santiago, San Cristóbal, Floreana, Marchena, Española, Pinta, Santa Fe, Baltra, Pinzón, and Genovesa. In addition, there are over 100 rocks and small islets. Only four islands are permanently inhabited: Santa Cruz, Isabela, San Cristóbal, and ...
Baltra – Entering the Galapagos Islands by plane – a first-hand account
Baltra – The Gateway to the Galápagos Islands 24.05.2026 Those visiting the fascinating Galápagos Islands usually land first on the small island of Baltra. This island, part of the Galápagos archipelago, is home to the main airport and thus serves as the gateway to one of the world's most spectacular natural paradises. Although Baltra itself appears rather barren and dry, the Galápagos adventure begins here. Just a few minutes...