The
Galapagos Islands are full of surprising wildlife, volcanic
landscapes and unique natural phenomena that most travellers never
experience. These insights reveal a deeper and more extraordinary
side of Ecuador’s iconic archipelago.
Many Galápagos animals have no natural fear of humans, often walking right up to visitors.
The islands lie on the Equator, but due to ocean currents, some areas feel surprisingly cool.
Marine iguanas are the world’s only sea-going lizards.
Blue-footed boobies really do use their bright feet to attract mates.
Giant tortoises can live well over 100 years and weigh more than 250 kg.
The Galápagos inspired Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution after his 1835 visit.
Ecuador pioneered one of the world’s first large-scale marine sanctuaries.
The Charles Darwin Research Station leads global conservation science.
The Galápagos were one of the earliest UNESCO World Heritage Sites (1978).
Visitors must follow strict conservation rules, including staying on marked trails.
Touching wildlife is prohibited, even if animals approach you.
Disposable plastics are heavily restricted in the islands.
Guides must accompany travellers inside national park zones.
Charles Darwin’s writing on the Galápagos changed global science forever.
Lonesome George, the last Pinta Island tortoise, became a worldwide conservation symbol.
Eugenia Price and other naturalists helped document the islands’ unique ecology.
Local conservationists are regarded as national heroes.
The Galápagos consist of 13 major islands and dozens of smaller islets.
Three major ocean currents converge here, creating a unique climate.
Some islands are volcanic and still active.
The archipelago sits 1,000 km off the coast of Ecuador.
Only four islands are inhabited: Santa Cruz, San Cristóbal, Isabela and Floreana.
Life moves at a slower pace, shaped by conservation and sustainable tourism.
Fishing and eco-tourism support much of the local economy.
Residents work closely with scientists and park rangers to protect the environment.
Seafood is central to daily cuisine, often caught hours before serving.
Local crafts are inspired by turtles, iguanas and marine life.
Conservation education is part of everyday school life for children.
Sustainability influences nearly every aspect of living on the islands.
Early sailors called the islands “The Enchanted Isles” due to mysterious shifting currents.
The islands were once used as a hideout for pirates and privateers.
Ecuador annexed the Galápagos in 1832, just before Darwin visited.
Scientific research has shaped global conservation policy for decades.
Bartolomé Island offers one of the most iconic views in the archipelago.
Sierra Negra hosts one of the world’s largest volcanic calderas.
Kicker Rock is a dramatic formation rising straight out of the sea.
Tortuga Bay is famous for pristine white sand and turquoise water.
Only four islands are inhabited.
Marine iguanas are unique to the Galápagos.
Blue-footed boobies display their feet in courtship dances.
Galápagos tortoises can live more than a century.
Darwin visited in 1835.
The islands lie on the Equator.
UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1978.
Strict conservation rules protect wildlife.
Volcanic activity shaped the entire archipelago.
Three major ocean currents meet here.
Sea lions are commonly found relaxing on benches and docks.
The archipelago sits 1,000 km off Ecuador’s coast.