Galapagos Islands refer to a small but stunning archipelago of islands in Ecuador in the eastern Pacific Ocean. These islands are quite isolated and very remote and lye some 1000 km west of the South American Continent. In total, there are 13 main islands in Galapagos Islands and six smaller isles that together cover about 50, 000 sq km of the ocean. The archipelago is very famous thanks to its fearless and unique wildlife, most of which is an inspiration of Natural Selection Theory put forward by Charles Darwin. So, as you can expect, the Galapagos Islands are highly frequented by natural historians, including both amateur and professionals.
At Galapagos Islands, you can expect to see giant tortoises, penguins, sea lions, a huge variety of bird species, and marine iguanas which can see and approach at your pleasure. The islands have a relatively volcanic and barren landscape but are nonetheless very beautiful. At Isla Isabela, you will find Volcan Wolf which is the highest mountain in Galapagos Islands; standing at a height of 1707 m. access to Galapagos Islands by tourists is strictly controlled and well maintained in an effort of protecting the island’s natural habitats. Every visitor at the archipelago must be accompanied always by a certified national park naturalist tour guide. The climate at Galapagos Islands is quite variable and there are receives both hot and rainy seasons.
Some of the most notable islands you will find at the archipelago include the Baltra which is an airport, Darwin & Wolf, Bartolome, Espanola, Floreana, Fernandina, Genovesa, and Isabela which is the largest island. Major towns within Galapagos Islands include Puerto Ayora, Puerto Villamil, Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, and Puerto Velasco Ibarra. Visiting Galapagos Islands is an expensive affair especially keeping in mind the remoteness of the area and the many travel restrictions imposed on travelers. Nevertheless, if you make it to the Galapagos Islands, you will be pleased as the area has many attractions to offer.
Cruises at Galapagos Islands are highly valued and this offers the best option of seeing most of the islands. This offers the best option of seeing most of the remote islands and many tour companies are offering to cruise. Climbing Bartolome hill will give you stunning views over Galapagos Islands.
You can also visit the rearing and breeding program of the giant tortoise at Charles Darwin Research Center on Santa Cruz. Snorkeling in the ocean is something that you will not want to miss and you will have a great time with sea turtles and sea lions. Make a point of also visiting the Magnificent Frigatebird red neck sacks on El Junco or North Seymour.
Diving in the Galapagos Islands is an incredible activity Darwin & Wolf Islands enjoy a reputation of being the best destination for diving in the world. Daily dives are offered by local tour operators from Isabela, San Cristobal, and Santa Cruz. Galapagos live boards are also available for diving especially for tourists intending to reach Darwin & Wolf.