Galapagos Anti-Cruise Offers Alternative

The evolution of Galapagos travel is downright Darwinian, with once-upon-a-time Birkenstock-clad nature travelers gradually morphing into comfort-minded guests on cruise ships that rest in port like floating luxury hotels. With its own brand of nature-focused small-boat or local lodge-based travel, award-winning ecotour company Natural Habitat Adventures is bringing the Galapagos adventure not full circle, but into the future, with an emphasis on intimate one-of-a-kind adventures that include the exclusive chance to camp under the stars in a tree house and tented camp amid giant tortoise habitat - and World Wildlife Fund - approved conservation education focused on the real-world issues that put the once pristine islands on UNESCO's World Heritage in Danger list.

Natural Habitat Adventures' year-round Classic Galapagos and summer Family Galapagos itineraries include the camping on Santa Cruz option, top local guides and accommodations on a 20-person yacht owned by an Ecuadorian family responsible for creating the first hybrid energy tour boat and committed to outfitting its entire fleet with sustainable technology (including solar panels and wind turbines) by 2011. The 11-day trips start from $4,695 per person, double occupancy, for adults. Another rare opportunity to experience the islands, the Galapagos by Land trip takes advantage of local lodgings chosen for their remote authenticity and comfort, like cool new cliff-side Lava Lodge cabins on Floreana. The 11-day land-based trip is offered February through August starting from $4,995. For details on all of Natural Habitat Adventures' Galapagos offerings, visit www.nathab.com/galapagos.

Natural Habitat Adventures gives back to the Galapagos Islands it visits with local education scholarships, local business support, conservation education and sustainable practices. A member of Adventure Collection and exclusive Conservation Travel Provider to World Wildlife Fund, the company's recent awards include a 2009 Best Adventure Travel Company ranking from National Geographic Adventure and a 2008 World's Best Tour Operator rating from Travel + Leisure. All Natural Habitat Adventures trips are carbon neutral. For information, visit www.nathab.com.