The Galapagos Islands are part of an archipelago located in the Pacific Ocean, which has 13 large islands and other small islands. It is one of the areas with the largest number of native fauna and flora in the world, famous for scientific studies of Charles Darwin.

The climate in the islands is tropical, with two seasons, but lower temperatures with the increasing altitude. The hottest time of the year is January.

They are considered Ecuador National Park and the sea that surrounds them is a Marine Reserve. Among the endemic species found are the famous Galapagos tortoises that have 14 varieties, land and marine iguanas; sea lions; lava gull; albatross; Galapagos penguins, among others. 

History

They were discovered by the Spanish in 1535 and then used as a stopover by English pirates during their journeys to attack the Spanish galleons carrying gold and silver to Spain.

The islands were annexed to the territory of Ecuador in 1832, baptizing them like Archipelago Columbus. It was in the Beagle trip where researchers Robert FitzRoy and Charles Darwin, who were interested in the flora and fauna of the area, unique in the world came.

In 1979 they were declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Currently their species are considered at risk of endangerment.

Where to go

San Cristóbal Island:

It is the easternmost of the archipelago and where flights arrive from Guayaquil on the mainland.

Here you can find a huge variety of native wildlife such as sea lions, iguanas, dolphins and seagulls, along with sting rays, sharks and lobsters. There is also a breeding station and shelter for the Galapagos tortoises.

Within it you can visit the Tijeretes Hill a nesting area where there is a statue of Charles Darwin, which marks the spot where he landed during his voyage on the HMS Beagle.

On this island there are two diving sites, the Leon Dormido and Lobos Island. On this island cultural activities are also performed especially in the Centro de Interpretacion.

Santa Cruz Island:

It is the second largest island after Isabela Island. In the capital Puerto Ayora you find the largest population of the archipelago. On this island the Charles Darwin Research Station, the offices of the Galapagos National Park and the Canal Itabaca, which corresponds to a broker of water taxis that transport people between islands are.

Among the natural areas are the Caleta Tortuga Negra, an area surrounded by mangroves where you can find sting rays, sharks and turtles, the Dragon Hill where there are land iguanas and flamingos and Tortuga Bay, a sheltered body of water where you can enjoy water sports like surfing, snorkeling and diving, while enjoying the presence of endemic fauna such as iguanas, turtles, multicolored fish and crabs.

Isabela Island:

It is the archipelago's largest, corresponding to 60% of its total size. The Wolf volcano is found on the island and is the highest point of the islands, with 1,707 meters of altitude. One of its peculiarities is that it is crossed by the line of the Equator.

Here you can find species such as penguins, colorful crabs, seals, iguanas and turtles; besides Galapagos hawks and other species.

Here is the city of Puerto Villamil and among its attractions are the Muro de las Lágrimas (Wall of Tears), a wall built by prisoners who lived in the prison of these islands, and Flamingo lagoon, south of the territory.

To do

The archipelago is one of the world's best places for adventure tourism. It lets you see hundreds of species of flora and fauna in the world and entering full contact with nature.

Here you can do all kinds of outdoor activities, including surfing, diving, swimming, fishing and observation of flora and fauna.

Since it has a tropical climate, it is recommended to avoid dehydration by drinking plenty of water and protect your skin with sunscreen because the sunshine that hits the island is very strong. 

Recommendations

Economy:

On the islands US dollars and credit cards are accepted. There is a branch of the Banco del Pacifico and another named Banco del Fomento. Here you can change money.

There is also an ATM network around the island.

Since it is an archipelago, the prices can be quite high, it is suggested to take a calculated budget of $ 60 per person per day approximately.

Transportation:

There is ground transportation such as buses and taxis and bicycles that can be used in populated islands. Water transportation is based on water taxis, ships or boats that move you from one island to the other.

The archipelago has the San Cristobal Airport, located on the island of the same name, which receives flights coming from Guayaquil or Quito, after a stopover in Guayaquil.

Communication:

The Galapagos Islands telephone code is 5. To call from abroad you must dial 593 before it, which is the code of Ecuador. 

Where and what to eat