Galapagos is a great place to visit as a family. There are lots of activities for teens in Galapagos that even the pickiest adolescent will enjoy. Having your teen take part in the planning and choosing of activities is a surefire way to make sure that everyone in the family has a great time.
Nature-based Activities for Teens in Galapagos
The Galapagos Islands are an amazing place to visit at almost any age. The teenage years are perfect because attention spans are long enough to enjoy learning while engaging in age-appropriate activities. The natural surroundings on the various islands of the Galapagos are unlike any other place. Teens will be able to explore the area with all of their senses and learn in ways that they never could with television or internet videos. Not only can teens view wildlife in their natural habitats, but they can also hear birds calling to each other, smell the surroundings, and touch rocks, plants, and sometimes even animals. Your expedition leader will be able to guide your through these experiences, enlightening both teens and adults about what it is that they are seeing, hearing, smelling, and touching.
Water Adventures and Activities for Teens in Galapagos
Many teens enjoy watersports, and the Galapagos Islands contain vast shorelines that are perfect for this activity. From lounging on the beaches to surfing and snorkeling, teens are sure to find the water activity that they enjoy the most.
Imagine snorkeling with sea lions at Punta Pitt on San Cristobal Island, for example. (You and your teen can try to locate this visitor site on these Galapagos maps!) The rocks and reefs off this island are known for their varied sea life. Snorkelers can swim through the channel and view a natural aquarium filled with colorful fish.
You can also go kayaking with your Galapagos cruise expedition. If you are lucky you may see sea turtles popping their heads out of the water as you paddle by! Teens will love the adventure and be amazed by how close they can get to sea life.
Visit the Tortoise Breeding Center
Even teens will enjoy learning while on this amazing vacation. The history of the giant tortoises on the Galapagos Islands is a worthwhile avenue of exploration. Teens can learn about the giant tortoises at the Charles Darwin Research Center on Santa Cruz Island. This biological research center contains a natural history interpretation center and many educational programs. Teens and their families will be able to see tortoises at all stages of development, from unhatched egg to fully grown. The full-grown tortoises can measure 6 feet across and weigh upwards of 500 pounds.
The highlands of Santa Cruz Island is another perfect place to visit giant tortoises. With giant tortoises soaking in mud baths or shading themselves under trees, your family will be able to view a variety of species at different ages and stages of development.
No matter what activities you partake in with your teenagers, this is sure to be a great vacation. The teens in your family are sure to take away memories that they will keep for a lifetime. Check out our variety of itineraries on the Santa Cruz II for a family-friendly vacation that will be fascinating for everyone!
