The Galapagos Islands off the coast of Ecuador are among the most whimsical spots on planet Earth.

Tucked into a remote corner of the world, this archipelago that inspired Charles Darwin’s Theory of Evolution is home to the weird and wonderful; some of the animals here can’t be found anywhere else in the world. Explore the secrets of the islands on a luxury cruise that will get you up close and personal to the wild inhabitants. Watch your step at Fernandina, home to the densest colonies of marine iguanas, and at Espanola, look out for the largest nesting colony of blue-footed boobies. Marvel at the striking red beach at Rabida or head to Isabela where you can snorkel with playful sea lions and green sea turtles in the crystal clear waters off its coast.

If you’d rather stay above the water, go sea kayaking around secluded coves and delight in Galapagos penguins and flightless cormorants swimming curiously by, or hop into an inflatable zodiac dinghy and let the wildlife come to you. There are plenty of guided hikes and walks, alongside cliffs, on lava fields and around mangrove estuaries. Take your time soaking it all in, and when your feet get weary, retire to the comfort of your cabin and marvel at the wonders you’ve witnessed.

When the call of the mainland finally comes, head back to spend an enchanting few days in the clouds in an exclusive National Geographic lodge. Set deep within the Mashpi Reserve, it offers a range of activities too. Let out your inner explorer and climb aboard a cable car that carries you over and sometimes through the forest canopy. Or summon up your courage and go for a night walk to explore the glow-in-the-dark treasures of the forest. Whatever you choose to do, you can be sure the raw magic of the jungle will leave you enchanted.