About the Galapagos

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  • Visiting the Galapagos Islands

About the Galapagos Islands

The Galapagos Islands lie nearly 1000 kilometers east of the mainland of Ecuador in the Pacific Ocean. Visited in 1835 and made famous by Charles Darwin, the archipelago consists of 19 volcanic islands, originally uninhabited by human beings. They are noted for the fearlessness of the animals that have never experienced human predation, and of course for their unique characteristics that led Darwin to develop the theory of evolution.

The Galapagos Islands boast many fine beaches with white sands and crystal clear waters, teeming with animal life both on the shore and beneath the water line. From seals and marine iguanas to sharks, manta rays and even penguins, it is easy to get up close to enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Inland too there is much to see, from the lava fields and lava tunnels to the giant highland tortoises. There is great hiking and mountain biking in addition to bird-watching and animal spotting.