The Galapagos Islands are unique and yearly thousands of visitors make a once in a lifetime trip to these islands. But what exactly makes the Galapagos such a special place?

1. Volcanic beauty on a unique location

The Galapagos Islands are located in the Eastern Pacific Ocean, over 900 kilometres out of the Ecuadorian coast. This isolated location not only makes it difficult for endemic species to leave the archipelago, but also for foreign species to enter the islands. Part of the natural beauty of the Galapagos is that they are of volcanic origin with several volcanoes that are still active, which forms an ever-changing landscape. The rock formations, vegetation and pristine beaches make a perfect natural beauty.

2.  Darwin´s discoveries

Charles Darwin was an English scientist who visited the Galapagos in 1835. He studied animals in many countries, but on the Galapagos Islands he was surprised to find different species of animals that had adapted to the island they were living in. Although he only stayed in Galapagos for five weeks, his findings there were crucial for the development of his theory of the evolution of the species, a theory that changed the perspective on nature and religion worldwide. Galapagos boasts several species that exist in no other place on the planet.

3. A protected area

One of the things that make the islands unique is the way they are protected to keep them as much as possible in their natural state. Since 1978 the islands have been recognized as a World Heritage Site and today 97% of the land is a National Park. In addition to the land, the underwater life of the islands is protected as well. An area of 138,000 square kilometres is an actively managed Marine Protected Area where only local, artisanal fishermen are allowed to fish.

4. People and animals co-exist in one place

Visiting the Galapagos means entering a different world, where animals have more rights than in other places of the world. Do not be surprised to find a sea lion or iguana hanging out on the terrace where you are eating lunch. The Galapagos´ animals are not scared of people and will give you the opportunity to take beautiful pictures and, even more important, have incredible experiences.  For the animals, people are part of their environment and they are used to interact with them in a way that is not possible in other parts of the world.

5. Well-organized tourism

Visiting the Galapagos Islands is a dream for many people around the world. Although it is a unique and well protected area, there are plenty of opportunities for tourism. The most common way of traveling is by Yacht or ship, which brings you to the most special places of the archipelago. The longer your cruise, the more isolated areas you will visit and the more wildlife you will see. Another option is staying in hotels on the populated islands and taking daily excursions from there. This option is also accessible for people with a tighter budget. Either way, you will have an experience that you will never forget.

Are you dreaming of visiting the Galapagos Islands? Latin Frontiers can help you plan your perfect vacation to one of the most special places on earth! Contact us

Sources:

www.galapagos.org

www.localhistories.org

www.worldwildlife.org