Stunning Galapogos Islands

The Galapogos Islands are chain of islands in the eastern Pacific Ocean, administered by Ecuador but located around a thousand km (six hundred and twenty mi) west of the continent of South America. In all there are thirteen core islands and also six less significant uninhabited ones, which together take up around 50000 square kilometers (nineteen thousand five hundred square miles). The islands are famous for their stunningly rich multiplicity of unique animal life and largely unspoilt ecosystem.

The animal life for which the Galapogos Islands are famous is indeed brilliant, including numerous indigenous species that are found nowhere else. A couple of the animal species you can encounter are Galapogos sea lions, Galapagos penguins, marine iguanas, Galapogos flamingos, giant tortoises, frigatebirds, and lots of others. The wildlife here is exceptionally tame, having practically no fear of people. This is thought to be a result of the islands’ isolation, which gave the local animals no motive to acquire the instinct to flee from humans. It is also believed to be because of the lack of any sizeable predator animals on the archipelago.

The ecosystem of the archipelago is also fabulous. Lovely reefs and countless variation of tropical fish contribute to some of the most remarkable diving and snorkelling places in the world. Outside of the ocean, the earth is very volcanic, causing the archipelago to be exceptionally bountiful with abundant vegetation. The volcanoes themselves present you with lots of opportunities to hike and explore, absorbing awe-inspiring scenery while you experience the volcanic topography up close.

The Galapogos Islands are still firmly regulated to prevent harm to the natural environment and animal life. You can visit an unspoilt paradise and experience a communion with nature that you can’t experience quite anywhere else in the world.

Get a Galapagos Island map for visitors at Free Printable Maps.

Why You Should Visit The Galapagos Islands
The Brilliant Galapogos Islands