If there’s a time to visit the Galapagos, it’s 2009. This year marks the 200th anniversary of the birth of Charles Darwin, the British naturalist who developed the theory of natural selection on his visit to the islands. It’s also been 150 years since Darwin’s The Origin of Species was published — the book that made the Galapagos famous. Plus, the Charles Darwin Foundation, established on the archipelago, celebrates 50 years.

Galapagos tours have never been more popular, but it’s Abercrombie & Kent who’ve put together an itinerary to match this year’s milestones: a cruise around the Galapagos Islands with Charles Darwin’s great-great grandson Randal Keynes. The 10-day excursion begins on October 22 with a tour of Quito’s old city (the usual preface to a Galapagos excursion). However, on the second night you’ll attend a private reception at the British Embassy with guests from the Darwin Foundation honoring Galapagos conservation efforts.

The following morning you’ll set off on a cruise with Keynes, where you’ll explore island landmarks like the Pinnacle Rock and meet the famously fearless wildlife. You’ll also have behind-the-scenes access to the Charles Darwin Research Center, home to the Galapagos’ most famous tortoise: Lonesome George.

— Kate Goodin