Beth Sharry's Solo Galápagos Adventure Changed Everything

The Galápagos Islands had lived in my imagination for years. Giant tortoises, volcanic landscapes, wildlife that has no fear of humans. I knew I needed to see it myself, not just to check it off a list, but to truly understand what I would be recommending to my clients. So I did something that pushed me completely out of my comfort zone: I booked a solo trip with G Adventures, flew to Quito, Ecuador, and met a group of strangers who would become friends from around the world.

We visited five different islands over the course of the trip, and each one revealed something new. One morning we would be walking along black sand beaches while sea lions lounged unbothered just feet away. The next afternoon we would be snorkeling through crystal waters, surrounded by marine life that seemed genuinely curious about us. The food was incredible, fresh and local, and our evenings often ended dancing in open air restaurants with locals who welcomed us like old friends.

The Moment I'll Never Forget

But the experience that stays with me, the one I keep telling everyone about, happened because of a simple recommendation from a local. They told us about a lagoon, not on the official itinerary, where the wildlife congregated in the late afternoon. I grabbed my snorkel gear and made my way there, not knowing what to expect.

Within minutes of entering the water, I was surrounded. Sea lion pups swam circles around me, playful and unafraid. Sea turtles glided past with ancient grace. And then, the Galápagos penguins appeared, darting through the water like tiny torpedoes. I floated there, barely breathing, completely overwhelmed by the privilege of sharing their space. There is nothing, and I mean nothing, like being that close to animals who have never learned to fear humans.

What Surprised Me Most

Before this trip, I imagined the Galápagos as remote and difficult to navigate. I pictured complicated logistics and isolated stretches of nothing. What I found instead was a bustling island life with endless boats moving between ports and activities packed into every day. The accessibility surprised me. Our guide handled all the transportation between islands and airports, so we never once worried about which boat to board or where to be. We simply showed up and experienced.

The tortoise sanctuary was everything I had dreamed it would be. Standing among those magnificent creatures, some over a hundred years old, I felt connected to something far bigger than myself. This was my lifetime dream realized, and the reality exceeded every expectation I had built up over the years.

Who This Trip Is For

This adventure is perfect for explorers of any age who love nature, ocean life, and cultural immersion. If you want that rare combination of wildlife encounters, physical activity, and genuine connection with locals and fellow travelers, the Galápagos delivers on every front. However, I do want to be honest: walking is essential on these islands. If mobility is a concern, we would need to have a deeper conversation before booking to make sure the experience matches your capabilities.

One insider tip I now share with clients: December and January mark the start of the wet season, which means choppier waters and cloudier skies. But here is the thing. I traveled in January and experienced minimal rain with excellent underwater clarity. Depending on your budget and expectations, this timing might actually work perfectly for you.

Having been there myself, I now recommend trips differently. I put myself in my client's shoes and ask the real questions: Could they handle this physically? Mentally? And most importantly, would they come home with that spark of joy restored? That is what the Galápagos gave me, and it is what I cannot wait to help my clients discover for themselves.