Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
About Galapagos Islands
The Galápagos Islands is a volcanic archipelago in the Pacific Ocean. It's considered one of the world's leading destinations for wildlife viewing. A province of Ecuador, it lies about 1000 kms off its coast. Its unusual territory shelters a variance of plant and animal species, many found nowhere else. Charles Darwin came around in 1835, and his knowledge of Galápagos' species later inspired his theory of evolution.
History Of Galapagos Islands
The Galapagos Islands were discovered in 1535 when father Tomas Berlanga, the bishop of Panama reached Peru to settle a dispute between Francisco Pizarro and his lieutenants after the conquest of the Incas.The bishop’s ship hold strong currents carried him out to the Galapagos.His account of the adventure contained to many facts about Galapagos: he narrate the harsh, desert like condition of the islands, their trademark was giant tortoises, marine iguanas, sea lions and the many sea birds.
Things To Do In Galapagos Islands
. Tortuga Bay (Santa Cruz Island)
Outdoorsy types don't flock to these two white sand beaches simply to bake in the warm equatorial sun. Travelers come to this remote strip of Santa Cruz Island's southern coastline for some aura face time with the Galápagos' marine turtles. If you visit in January and February, you might even capture sight of the black turtles laying their eggs . Even if you are not a turtle lover, you can still get close and personal with the other beach combers like marine iguanas and Sally Lightfoot crabs.
. Rancho Primicias (Santa Cruz Island)
One of the Galápagos Islands' most famous creatures is the giant tortoise, and one of the territory's best spots to see them is at Rancho Primicias. Located on Santa Cruz Island approximately 13 miles away from Puerto Ayora, this privately owned animal sanctuary is filled with giant tortoises. The spot also features empty tortoise shells to climb onto and tunnels made of cooled, hardened lava to walk , and facilities like a restaurant and restrooms.
. La Loberia (San Cristóbal Island)
Its near Puerto Baquerizo Moreno on San Cristóbal Island, this amazing sea lion laden beach offers broad opportunities for catching sight of the island's lively local residents. For those looking to hit the waves, there are also ample places to surf, swim and snorkel. Just be sure to be in safe distance away from the sea lions; alpha males are known for being territorial and can be threatening toward humans if they feel threatened.
. Snorkeling & Diving
Way to many, the Galápagos' charm lies with its ampleness of land roaming creatures. But for aquatic addict more interested in the absurd diversity of wildlife found below its turquoise waves, the Galápagos' surrounding waters are just as alluring. As soon as you take the jump, you'll come face to face with a myriad of colorful tropical fish, sea horses and sharks, among other creatures.
Best Hotels
Angermeyer Waterfront Inn
Hotel Los Algarrobos
La Gran Tortuga
Lava House Hostal
La Fortaleza de Haro
** Map Of Galapagos Islands**
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Great post and beautiful pictures. I spent a lot of time in Ecuador but unfortunately didn't get to the Galapagos Islands. Hopefully there will be a next time.