Galapagos Islands Crowned Top Travel Destination for North Americans

The Galapagos Islands in Ecuador have been named the top travel destination for North Americans in the Ultimate Travel Showdown by Exodus Adventure Travels, a leading small group guided tour operator. The contest, held throughout March, invited thousands of U.S. and Canadian travelers to vote for their dream vacation.

The bracket-style competition featured 16 global destinations, narrowing down each week based on popular vote. In a nail-biting final round between Italy and the Galapagos, the islands emerged victorious by a slim margin, capturing the imagination of travelers seeking unique wildlife encounters and breathtaking natural landscapes.

Participants in the showdown were also entered into a grand prize draw for a guided tour for two to the winning destination. The lucky winner, to be announced later this month, will choose from a variety of Galapagos Islands adventures offered by Exodus, including “Island Hopping” and the immersive “Galapagos Encounter” trip.

Famous for their volcanic scenery and rare wildlife, the Galapagos Islands offer travelers close-up encounters with species like blue-footed boobies, sea lions, and marine iguanas. The archipelago is often described as a “living museum of evolution,” making it a bucket-list destination for nature lovers.

Exodus Adventure Travels, a certified B Corporation, offers over 500 small group tours in more than 90 countries, focusing on hiking, biking, cultural, and wildlife experiences. With a strong commitment to responsible tourism, the company emphasizes community-driven travel and conservation efforts through its “Thriving Nature, Thriving People” initiative.

Celebrating over 50 years of travel excellence, Exodus has received numerous honors, including awards from National Geographic Traveler, Condé Nast Traveler, and Travel + Leisure. For more information, visit ExodusTravels.com or follow @ExodusTravels on social media.