Monthly Newsletter - October 2008

The Galapagos Islands, known in Spanish as Las Islas Galápagos, are located west of mainland Ecuador, and are situated atop and around the Equator. This renowned archipelago, made of more than 19 small volcanic islands, is also called the Enchanted Islands, mainly due to the difficulty in navigation, their beautiful geography and its impressive biodiversity. The Galapagos and its surrounding marine reserve are listed as a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site since 1978, and just last year, it was added to the List of World Heritage Sites in Danger.

The Galápagos Islands are most famous for their involvement in studies by Charles Darwin, who visited the islands in the 19th century during the formation of his theories of evolution. However, the islands hold much more than scientific appeal for the modern-day traveler. The oldest island, Española, is thought to have formed around 5 to 10 million years ago, and the youngest islands are still in formation. Their range in age and biodiversity creates a dramatic, unique landscape that can only be found in the isolated islands themselves. On land, one can find a large variety of vegetation and animals, most of which are unique to the Galapagos and have evolved in isolation from the main land. Visitors can be amazed by giant land tortoises, land iguanas, penguins, and lizards. Yet the Galapagos also has a wide array of flora, including about 560 native species, most notably the endemic species of cacti, the “daisy tree”, and mangroves. When in the Galapagos, however, you won’t be confined to the land. Snorkeling and diving opportunities are abundant, and this gives you the opportunity to experience the marine reserve. Among the many species of fish, it is possible to see and interact with: sea lions, fur seals, sea turtles, marine iguanas, sharks, dolphins, and even whales.

The Galapagos Islands are best visited on one of the many cruises that run year-round. Boat sizes vary from 14 to 100 passengers, and most offer cruises of three, four, or seven nights. There is a wide range of itinerary options and prices, so it is advisable to know what you want to see, how long you want to cruise, and your target budget. If cruises aren’t quite your thing, it is also possible to take part in an “island hopping” tour, during which you will be based in a hotel on one of the inhabited islands.

No matter how you prefer to visit this unique site, the Galapagos Islands are a truly an exceptional destination, offering travelers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience nature up-close and without barriers.

By
Aimee Reeves

Source:
unesco.org
Wikipedia.com

PAST NEWSLETTERS:

• Newsletter September 2008
• Newsletter August 2008
• Newsletter July 2008
• Newsletter June 2008
• Newsletter May 2008
• Newsletter April 2008
• Newsletter February 2008
• Newsletter January 2008