Located 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, the remarkable Galapagos Islands have continued to fascinate both scientists and travellers for decades. From their breathtaking rugged landscape to their unique array of animal inhabitants, the islands are an eco-traveller's dream. In recent years concerns have been raised by environmental experts, warning that their popularity as a holiday resort could see the Galapagos damaged and affect their biodiversity. Huge efforts are now being made by travel companies and authorities to ensure that visitors can continue to explore these amazing lands while simultaneously preserving the islands and their native creatures.
In all, 19 islands make up the Galapagos, as well as numerous tiny islets and jagged volcanic rocks. The only human populations are based on the four largest islands, with around 17,000 people living on San Cristobal, Santa Cruz, Isabela, and Floreana. First discovered in 1535 by Tomas de Berlanga, the islands are perhaps best known for the part they have played in our history and indeed, understanding of ourselves. In 1831, Charles Darwin sailed to the Galapagos Islands in the HMS Beagle and it was here that he spawned his first ideas about the theory of evolution by natural selection. Now, years later, the islands' flora and fauna still continue to fascinate visitors and in particular the Galapagos tortoise. Researchers claim that 11 subspecies of the Galapagos tortoise are still in existence, some with only small populations. They are renowned for their huge size, with some adults belonging to the larger subspecies weighing in at over 300 kilograms and measuring 1.2 meters.
One of the best ways to see the Galapagos is by not actually going on to the islands themselves but discovering them by boat. This can also help to protect the species which make their home there by giving them as little contact with humans as possible. There are numerous cruises which now offer luxury accommodation while simultaneously allowing passengers to witness some of the most spectacular natural scenery on Earth. The shores of the islands are alive with wildlife, from Great Blue Herons and Galapagos Marine Iguana to sea lions, fur seals and of course, the famous finches.
From a cruise ship there is also the opportunity to view marine life in all its glory, with Humpback Whales and Bottlenose Dolphins easy to spot as they perform their nautical acrobatics off the Ecuadorian coast. There are known to be some 23 species of whales, dolphins and porpoises occurring in the waters of Ecuador. Humpbacks, the fifth largest whale in the world and can measure up to 16 meters and weigh some 40 tons. They splash the surface of the water with their flippers and tails to communicate with others, creating an amazing sight for visitors to the area. Bottle-nosed Dolphins, which can be as large as three meters, are social creatures and live in groups. Often, one member of the group comes close to a passing boat to check it is safe for the rest of the pod to pass - giving wildlife enthusiasts the chance to see these wonderful creatures up close in their natural habitat.

Back to News