Laura Ward
Originally from England, where I worked in London but spent every possible spare moment traveling and exploring new and wonderful destinations, until I reached the enchanted islands of Galapagos, which found a special place in my heart and changed the path of my life forever.
I feel very lucky to be able to say the Galapagos islands have now been my home for over 9 years, where I continue to learn every single day from the nature that surrounds us.
Working as the Head Adventure Specialist for Galakiwi Adventures allows me to share my passion and knowledge of these unique islands. I understand that like myself Galapagos is on most people's bucket list and is a once in a lifetime experience that should be crafted with expert local knowledge and environmental and cultural sensitivity leading to a trip of a lifetime!
What places and activities do you specialize in?
"We specialize in Galapagos Land-based, multi-activity Adventures. We will take you Hiking, Biking, snorkeling, Kayaking and stand up paddle boarding around the islands with amazing up close nature encounters.
We understand that visiting the Galapagos Islands is a once in a lifetime opportunity for most and we continually strive to make our tours a truly unforgettable experience. We offer tours that are not only fun, intriguing and challenging but also educational and intellectually stimulating. You will learn about the cultural and environmental uniqueness of the islands and understand what makes them more delicate than any other place on our planet. Our aim is to provide the highest standards of operational safety, program quality and service reliability possible. Simply put, we want to be the best. Our knowledge, experience, and commitment ensure that you will have an unforgettable experience from start to finish.
We also run Adventure Trips in Ecuador and Peru. "
How did you get involved in travel?
"Travel has always been the biggest inspiration and teacher in my life.
I grew up watching nature documentaries and couldn't wait to start exploring for myself. My travels have led me to explore many countries and learn so much along the way. Little did I know that one day my travels would lead me to find love on one of the most isolated islands in the world. My husband is a biologist and Naturalist guide on the Galapagos islands and together we are raising our son on Isabela island with a very special love and respect for nature.
Travel was life changing for me and I now enjoy giving our clients a very unique and life-enriching experience. "
Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.
"Last year while traveling back to Isabela Island from Floreana Island our boat was joined by a large school of dolphins, we slowed down to be able to enjoy their display. It is one of my families favorite moments on the boat crossings, we love watching the dolphins swim along with the boat, jump and flip from the water and sometimes they even turn on their side and you feel they are looking you right in the eye as if they are as intrigued about you as you are of them. Then suddenly something much bigger took us by surprise, a whale shark swam towards the boat and continued to slowly circle us. We had time to enter the water and snorkel alongside the beautiful, gentle, giant for some time before he decided it was time to say goodbye. It was such a humbling moment and another reminder of how nature is full of surprises!"