"Galapagos" Galápagos Islands by elsadran

Galápagos Islands Travel Guide: 1,001 reviews and 4,014 photos

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The islands consist of 13 major ones, 17 small ones and about 40 rocks. 5 of them are inhabited nowadays, with the most devoloped ones being Santa Cruz and San Cristobal. Wildlife is unique and fearless. You can be swimming with the sealions performing their graceful dance around you. I remember I was shouting like a small child overjoyed with hapiness when it happened to me. You can look into the lovely eyes of a sea lion, lying nonchalantly on the shore. And you should walk carefully to avoid stepping on a marine iguana, busking in the sun, absolutely still.
The islands were discovered by the Spanish in 1535. They were uninhabited then. For years they were used as terrible undesired places of exile and punishment. In 1835 Ecuador claimed sovereignty over them. Three years later Charles Darwin charmed by their unique natural qualities made his research and studies to develop his theory of evolution. Many offers of other nations to get them for military purposes for their great strategical location, were rejected by Ecuador. During World War II the Americans established a military base in Baltra, which has been used as an airport since the end of the world.

Floreana

There are two airports now, one on Baltra from where you can take the ferry and go to Santa Cruz, Puerto Ayora. This is the main population center where there is everything necessary for your stay. The other one is on San Cristobal island, in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. Using these two as a base you can explore many islands taking regular boats or private ones. Depending on how much you want to see and how dedicated a natural lover you are you need 1 or 2 weeks to do justice to the natural wonder of Galapagos.
The best time to come is March and April because the weather is calm and it is the nesting season.

Last visit to Galápagos Islands: Dec 2007
Intro Updated May 29, 2008
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Reviews (24)

they are not pets... - Galápagos Islands

they are not pets... Warnings and Dangers (1)

As cute as the animals might be and as peaceful and fearless they might look don't come too close. One reason is that... more travel advice

Undersea World Things to Do (14)

Almost all islands offer great beaches, crystal clear water and sea animals to play with while swimming. The bottom of... more travel advice

a fur seal in Santiago - Galápagos Islands

Santiago Things to Do (14)

Santiago is the fourth largest island and has the most beautiful coastline of all. Port Egas was once inhabited but not... more travel advice

Interpretation Center - Galápagos Islands

The Interpretation Center Things to Do (14)

The Center of Interpretation is also in the Darwin Research Station. There is an exhibition displaying photos about... more travel advice

Transportation (1)
to and around Galapagos...
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Comments (5)

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SLLiew Oct 22, 2012 at 9:42 AM

Great photos - especially like the one you in a tortoise shell! SL :)
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Agraichen Dec 30, 2008 at 2:23 PM

Excellent descriptions of the islands and their environment. Next time you pass through Quito, dine at the Theatre restaurant in the historic district. A bit pricey, but well worth the cost.
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janetanne Aug 18, 2008 at 2:37 PM

Yasou Elsa! Your Galapagos pages are really superb. How fortunate you were to have been able to go there. Where have your travels taken you this summer, 2008?
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AKHTARSAYYAD Jun 23, 2008 at 4:27 AM

nice photos ! akhtar
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SLLiew Jun 5, 2008 at 2:41 PM

Incredible page of an amazing place - Galapagos Islands are very beautiful. My fav pic is "inside the tortoise shell" :) What a wonderful birthday present to be able to visit this paradise on earth. SL :)