The Galapagos Islands’ reputation as one of the world’s great travel experiences is more than justified.
History
Untouched by humans for many thousands of years, this isolated volcanic archipelago of rugged lava flows, mountain grasslands and sandy beaches was a hothouse of evolution that gained everlasting fame as the inspiration for Charles Darwin’s “On The Origin Of The Species”.
Wildlife and the experience
Over 170 years later you can discover the islands for yourself, with their marine iguanas, giant tortoises, fearless birds and staggering marine life, and you are sure to be as entranced as Darwin. The diverse range of animals that live on these remote islands have no fear of man, and a cruise around their home is a real delight. Walking along sandy beaches around the lazy sea lions as their inquisitive pups try to steal your shoelaces, watching the comical bluefooted boobies perform their mating dance, carefully stepping around a tangled pile of sun-bathing marine iguanas, admiring the male great frigate bird’s inflated red chest, all will be part of an unforgettable Galapagos experience.
Evolution
Charles Darwin arrived in Galapagos in 1835. Here he found a remarkable population of plants, birds and reptiles that had developed in isolation from the mainland, but also differed on almost identical neighbouring islands. These characteristics he could only explain by a gradual transformation of the various species and lead to the publication of his “Origin of the Species”
Fearless Wildlife
Having no natural predators for centuries the wildlife on Galapagos has become remarkably fearless. This has continued with the introduction of humans allowing visitors to come face to face with the animals. It is quite common for visitors to have to make way for a sea lion on the beach or will be forced away from a nesting site of a Blue-footed Booby.
Lonesome George
Galapagos’ most famous resident, Lonesome George is the last remaining sub-species of the Pinta Giant Tortoises, almost wiped to extinction by whalers in the 1900’s. Now currently residing in the Charles Darwin Research Station, researchers are trying to find a suitable mate and a sizeable reward is on offer for anyone who can do so.
Pinnacle Rock
The Galapagos’ most iconic site Pinnacle Rock is an eroded tuff cone protruding form the side of Bartolome Island. This lunar landscape edged by a white sand beach full of sea lions, blue water and stunning back drop is one of the highlights of a trip to Galapagos.
Volcanoes
Galapagos is often referred to as the land of fire. The western most islands are made up of active volcanoes and volatile activity is common place. When an eruption takes place, cruise vessels often divert their itinerary to enable passengers to get close to lava flows.
