Situated 600 miles off the Ecuador coast, the Galapagos Islands is the best vacation spot for lovers of wildlife and enthusiasts of nature. The volcanic islands feature some of the rarest plant and animal species, and these are ones that you won’t find in other parts of the world. The archipelago is wealthy in flora and fauna that has held captive many scientists and researchers. It also boasts the Finch bird, which was said to be one of the inspirations for Charles Darwin’s evolutionary theory.
The volcanic archipelago is the embodiment of nature in its pure and unpolluted form. It is only in the Galapagos that one can get to swim with sea lions, watch the most exotic birds Mother Nature has to offer, and see great tortoises move up close. Just one visit to the islands can be a life-changing experience.
Thinking About Your Next Holiday Destination?
Are you already planning for your next vacation? Here are four reasons you should have your holidays in the Galapagos islands.
Endemic Creatures Of The Air
If you want to find the most exotic creatures in the world, the chances are that you’ll find them in the Galapagos. The Galapagos Island is said to be the home of over 50 percent of all the species of flora and fauna in the South American continent. There are over nine thousand known species of birds, and the volcanic archipelago is said to be home to 18 percent of them. If you are a true lover of birds, there’s no way you can pass up on this.
In the Galapagos, you get to watch these endemic creatures up close! See magnificent birds, from the famed finches to the albatrosses and blue-footed bobbies! You’re sure to catch sight of a bird you’ve never seen before. Here’s a hint: To get the most out of bird watching, be sure to visit the Genovesa island, which is fondly known by the locals as La Isla de los Pajaros, meaning “Bird Island.”
Pristine and Unpolluted Environment
The total human population in the Galapagos Islands is no more than three percent of the overall species that inhabit the archipelago. The Galapagos comprises thirteen major islands, but only four of them are inhabited by humans. The rest are reserved as national parks. With less human presence, the land and water conditions are in a far better state than you’ll find anywhere else in the world.
Here’s a fact: the Galapagos Islands were never linked with any continent. They were created by underwater volcanoes—hence, giving them the name “volcanic islands.” As these underwater volcanoes continue to evolve, the islands keep changing and evolving too, so the environment is never the same. The air is cleaner, and the water is fresher—what’s not to love?
The Hospitality of the Locals
Another thing that will help to ensure you enjoy your stay in the Galapagos is the hospitality of the island’s locals. Whenever you’re not snorkeling with sea lions or watching a finch as it pecks at a handful of seeds, you can come down to spend time with some galapagueños. The islands inhabited by the locals are Baltra, Floreana, Isabela, San Cristobal, and Santa Cruz. The town of Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz island is the biggest human settlement in the Galapagos. The town is inhabited by about 10,000 people.
If you’re looking to learn more about the history of the Galapagos, there’s nobody that can tell it better than the locals. With a can of cool beer in hand and a local delicacy, you can have a nice discussion about the ancient culture of the Galapagos with the galapagueños themselves.
Visit Dreamy Beaches
The Galapagos is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. You can’t have a complete vacation on the island without walking on at least one of its beaches. From Tortuga Bay in Santa Cruz to Puerto Chino beach in Santa Christóbal, experience Paradise on Earth as you walk on White sands and swim in clear turquoise waters that are patent to the island.
You’ll also get to engage your love for snorkeling and surfing. Plus, the most breathtaking views are the ones you see standing on the top of a cliff.
Visit the Galapagos Today
Just as it is when going on any vacation, you must take some necessary precautions in case of any accidents, especially during surfing, snorkeling, or cliff climbing. When watching the wildlife, ensure that you follow the instructions of your tour guide. You can look forward to an amazing experience if you plan ahead and do your research before your trip.
Copyright photo: Diego F. Parra on Pexels I License: CC0 Public Domain