Why To Visit The Galapagos Islands

The Galapogos Islands are an archipelago of islands in the eastern Pacific Ocean, part of the country of Ecuador but lying more or less 1,00  km (620 miles) west of the continent of South America.  Altogether there are 13 core islands together with 6 smaller uninhabited ones, which put together occupy about 50,000 sq km (nineteen thousand five hundred square miles). The islands are well-known for their amazingly rich variety of unique animal life and essentially untouched natural environment.

The wildlife for which the Galapogos Islands are known is indeed magnificent, including scores of native species that are found nowhere else. A few of the animal species you can catch a glimpse of are Galapogos sea lions, Galapagos penguins, marine iguanas, Galapogos flamingos, giant tortoises, frigatebirds, and many others. The animal life here is incredibly tame, having almost no fear of people. This is believed to be because of the archipelago's remoteness, which gave the local animals no motive to develop the instinct to flee from people. It is also thought to be a result of the lack of any sizeable predator animals on the islands.

The natural environment of the islands is also magnificent. Beautiful reefs and never-ending varieties of exotic fish contribute to some of the most miraculous diving and snorkelling places on the planet. Outside of the ocean, the land is extremely volcanic, causing the archipelago to be extremely bountiful with abundant plant life. The volcanoes themselves give you lots of opportunities to hike and explore, experiencing breathtaking views while you experience the volcanic terrain up close.

The Galapogos Islands continue to be meticulously regulated to preclude damage to the natural environment and animals. You can experience an untouched paradise and feel a oneness with nature that you can't experience quite anywhere else on Earth.

Get a Galapagos Island tourist map at Free Printable Maps.