Galápagos Islands

Overview

The Galápagos Islands inspired Darwin's theory of evolution, with unique wildlife and pristine natural ecosystems.

History

The Galápagos Islands were formed by undersea volcanic eruptions about five million years ago, roughly 1,000 kilometres from the South American mainland in the middle of the Pacific. Spanish explorers found them in 1535. In 1835 the young Charles Darwin spent five weeks studying them, observing variations between species on different islands, which became a key inspiration for On the Origin of Species in 1859. A national park was created in 1959 and the islands were among the first World Heritage Sites in 1978, one of the most biodiverse hotspots on earth.

Highlights

• •Face to face with fearless marine iguanas and sea lions
• •Comparing the twelve species of Darwin's finches
• •The giant Galápagos tortoises unique to the archipelago
• •Snorkelling with playful sea lion pups in clear water
• •Close views of active volcanoes on Fernandina and Isabela

Practical tips

• •Travel with a licensed naturalist guide
• •Do not bring food into protected areas

Practical information

Best time

June to November

Tickets

National park entry about USD 100 plus cruise or base-tour costs

Opening hours

Tours require a licensed guide and run all day

Local food

Seafood soup, banana pancakes and fresh fish

Getting around

Fly from Quito or Guayaquil; islands are linked by ferry and yacht

Visa

Chinese citizens may enter visa-free for stays of up to 90 days. Visiting the Galápagos Islands requires a separate national park permit and fee.

…