Galapagos Islands News

Since 1975, all visitors to Galapagos must be accompanied by a certified naturalist guide. These men and women are a key component in the management of the Galapagos National Park: they not only share their knowledge with the visitors, but also act as the eyes and ears of the park service, enforcing rules and notifying the park service about introduced species, trails that need maintenance, etc. The Galapagos guides come from a variety of backgrounds, and all must take and pass the official guide course. Even though their presence is mandated by the park service, many visitors find that their Galapagos guide is an important part of their overall Galapagos experience!

For centuries, the Galapagos Islands were a remote, lawless land. Considered nearly uninhabitable by the earliest visitors, the Galapagos Islands soon became known as a good place to hunt turtles and goats, take on water and make repairs for ships. During this time, the fragile Galapagos ecosystems were plundered and destroyed by hungry goats and careless sailors: Charles Darwin himself attested to hundreds of Floreana tortoises being carted off for food on the high seas. Galapagos was of little interest to Ecuador: it used the remote, harsh islands as a penal colony for the worst mainland offenders. The prisoners and settlers also devastated island ecosystems and introduced foreign plants and animals.

The Galapagos Islands may be Ecuador’s top visitor attraction, but there is much more to see and do! Ecuador is home to beautiful mountains and valleys, rivers and lakes. Not all of the wildlife is in Galapagos: you can see birds, reptiles and mammals in the highlands and jungles. Many visitors to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands like to see the southern part of the country, where rolling hills, lush valleys and friendly people captivate the hearts and imaginations of their guests.

The Galapagos Islands may be Ecuador’s top visitor attraction, but there is much more to see and do! Ecuador is home to beautiful mountains and valleys, rivers and lakes. Not all of the wildlife is in Galapagos: you can see birds, reptiles and mammals in the highlands and jungles. Many visitors to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands like to see the southern part of the country, where rolling hills, lush valleys and friendly people captivate the hearts and imaginations of their guests.

The reptiles of the Galapagos Islands are a fascinating bunch. Unlike birds, reptiles cannot fly to Galapagos, so all of them had to get there by accident. Reptiles such as snakes, tortoises and iguanas presumably were washed off of the mainland somehow clinging to floating material such as fallen trees or reeds, arriving at Galapagos after some weeks at sea. Once there, they all had to adapt to the harsh Galapagos environment. The Galapagos marine iguanas are a good example: their mainland ancestors lived in trees, eating fruit. Once in Galapagos, they adapted to eating underwater algae and living on rocky shores.

Unlike birds, mammals cannot fly to Galapagos, so all of them had to get there by accident. Small mammals such as the Galapagos rice rat presumably were washed off of the mainland somehow clinging to floating material such as fallen trees or reeds, arriving at Galapagos after some weeks at sea. The famous Galapagos sea lions are descended from ancestors who lived off the South American coast: a fierce storm untold centuries ago likely brought them to Galapagos, where they thrived. Today, many other mammals live in Galapagos, such as goats, dogs, pigs, donkeys and cows: these were all brought by humans.

Bird life in the Galapagos is much more abundant and varied simply for the fact that it was much easier for birds to reach the islands than reptiles or mammals. For a reptile or mammal to reach Galapagos, it had to survive for weeks or even months at sea, clinging to a floating tree or mass of vegetation. Once it arrived, it had to beat the odds and somehow find food and an ecological niche where it could survive. Birds, however, could fly to and from Galapagos relatively easily. Even smaller species such as finches could be carried out to Galapagos by strong storms. Today, it’s generally these smaller Galapagos species that have adapted enough to become endemic.

Understand how Galapagos was born and you can understand the Galapagos of today. Most Galapagos visitors have come from around the world to see the fearless Galapagos wildlife or to dive in the crystal blue Galapagos waters. Some have come to follow in the footsteps of famed naturalist Charles Darwin, who visited Galapagos in 1835. Everyone knows the privileged place of the Galapagos Islands in Natural History, but not as many know that the geology of the islands is as fascinating as the Galapagos wildlife!

For centuries, there were the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, of which only the Pyramids of Egypt still survive. Then, a couple of years ago, there was an online competition to name the New Seven Wonders of the World. Millions of people voted and seven marvelous sites were selected, including Machu Picchu in Peru, Chichen Itza in Mexico and the Christ Redeemer statue in Brazil.

“In a few days time the Beagle will sail for the Galapagos Islands. I look forward with joy and interest to this, both as being somewhat nearer to England and for the sake of having a good look at an active Galapagos volcano.”

-Charles Darwin, letter to J.S. Henslow about the Galapagos, July 12, 1835.

Because the Galapagos Islands were isolated for so long, the plants and animals that live in Galapagos branched off into their own evolutionary trees and many of these Galapagos creatures are endemic to Galapagos, or found nowhere else on earth. When man first came to the Galapagos, each of these Galapagos species had found their ecological niche. Unfortunately, humans changed the Galapagos ecosystem, hunting some Galapagos animals and introducing others such as goats, pigs and cats.

The Galapagos Islands are a world-renowned natural wonder. Every year, thousands of people come to Galapagos to experience the stunning beauty and pristine environments impossible to find elsewhere. As wonderful as the Galapagos Islands are, don’t forget that they’re only a very tiny part of South America and that there is much more to see and do! It’s easy to extend your Galapagos trip to include other unforgettable sights. Once you’re done in Galapagos, why not extend to Peru, home of Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca and the ancient Inca city of Cuzco?

It’s safe to assume a few things about a Galapagos visitor. The Galapagos are extremely remote, so it takes a dedicated traveler to get there in the first place. Galapagos is known for wildlife: it’s a zoo without walls and many Galapagos visitors are animal lovers. The Galapagos appeal to budget and high-end travelers alike and the Galapagos tourism industry there has a very good reputation. Finally, the Galapagos are not for those who want to relax on a beach: this “off the beaten path” destination is rugged and challenging.

The Galapagos Islands, Ecuador are sparsely populated, small and remote. Galapagos is known for being laid-back, friendly and little of great importance happens there. This all changed for a few months in 1934, when the Galapagos Islands – more specifically, Floreana Island – were the site of a scandal that was debated around the world. “The Galapagos Affair,” as it is known, has puzzled Galapagos historians since the events that unfolded between March and December of 1934. It all began in 1929, when eccentric German doctor Friedrich Ritter arrived to Galapagos with his lover/patient Dore Strauch.

Ever since Charles Darwin’s fateful 1835 Galapagos voyage, the world has known of the Galapagos Islands. The Galapagos geology, Galapagos history, Galapagos wildlife and breathtaking Galapagos scenery have been luring visitors to Galapagos ever since. Many people don’t know much more about the Republic of Ecuador: some may not even know that the Galapagos Islands have been part of Ecuador since 1832! Wonderful as they are, there is much more to Ecuador than the Galapagos Islands. One place you may wish to consider extending your Galapagos tour is Ecuador’s historic capital city and World Heritage Site, Quito.

Galapagos visitors got an unexpected bonus this week: The La Cumbre Galapagos Volcano, dormant since 2005, erupted spectacularly on Saturday, April 11. La Cumbre is located on Fernandina Island, the westernmost of the major Galapagos Islands as well as one of the most volcanically active. Volcanic activity is nothing new in Galapagos: the Galapagos islands themselves were all formed by volcanoes over the last five million years or so.

The Galapagos Islands are a dream destination. Who hasn’t seen one of the many Galapagos TV specials featuring frolicking sea lions, majestic Galapagos tortoises and beautiful fish and not wanted to come? Since the 1960’s, visitors have flocked to Galapagos and experienced the one-of-a-kind experience they can only get there. But how is the best way to see the Galapagos Islands? There are basically three options: small ships, large ships and land-based Galapagos tours. Which is best for your Galapagos Adventure?

Galapagos: it’s the dream trip of a lifetime for many travellers. Galapagos is also known as the Enchanted Islands and have been luring adventurous travellers ever since Charles Darwin’s famous Galapagos visit, the one which led him to use the unassuming Galapagos Finch to illustrate his Theory of Evolution. Your Galapagos Islands tour is booked, your Galapagos flight is scheduled: now what? How do you fill your time between now and then? What can you do to make the most of your Galapagos trip, before you even go? Here are the top ten tips from veteran Galapagos travellers.

One of the most recognizable Galapagos Islands, is Sombrero Chino which means “Chinese Hat.” It’s easy to see why: this Galapagos islet off of Santiago Island is shaped like an old-fashioned Chinaman’s hat, a gently sloping cone rising out of the clear Galapagos water. Because of its distinctive shape, Sombrero Chino has fascinated Galapagos visitors as long as they have been coming to Galapagos. It’s one of the smallest Galapagos Islands but don’t be fooled: it has a terrific visitor site with an unforgettable view!

Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, capital of Galapagos Province, is known for its tranquil harbor, smooth sand beaches, and an atmosphere that is more laid-back than larger Galapagos port of Puerto Ayora. No doubt part of this atmosphere comes from a handful of year-round Galapagos residents: the sea lion colony that has lived in this Galapagos harbor since before the area was first settled decades ago.

Galapagos: travel destination of the rich and famous! In recent weeks, the Galapagos Islands have hosted some well-known visitors. Over a century ago, British naturalist Charles Darwin made his legendary visit to the Galapagos. Last week another British Charles made the trip: Charles, Prince of Wales. He came with his wife, Camilla and only spent one day in the Galapagos Islands. Nevertheless, they managed to pack quite a bit into their brief Galapagos visit.

Here be dragons! Galapagos dragons!! You won’t find a much more apt place name in Galapagos than Cerro Dragón, or “Dragon Hill.” This rocky, low-lying Galapagos hill on the northwestern side of Santa Cruz Island is home to an impressive population of Conolophus subcristatus, or Galapagos land iguana. These miniature dragons roam around the sun-scorched, boulder-strewn Galapagos Island, nipping away contentedly at the fruits and flowers of their favorite food, the Galapagos Opuntia Cacti.

In addition to the hundreds of fish species that call Galapagos home, there are many other marine species frequently seen by visitors, including sea turtles, sharks, rays, octopi, crustaceans and more! And let's face it: reef fish are cool, but wouldn't you rather see a shark or sea turtle?

The Champion Island, named after the whaler Andrew Champion, is a small island (23.23 a) located just offshore Floreana Island in the southern part of the Archipelago, considered as one of the most beautiful places on Galapagos for all snorkeling and diving fans and an excellent opportunity for dolphin watching...

2009 will be a big year in the Galapagos Islands, as the people of the archipelago celebrate the 200th birthday of their most famous honorary resident, British naturalist Charles Darwin (1809-1882). 2009 coincidentally marks the 150th anniversary of the first publication of Darwin's groundbreaking book, On the Origin of Species, which detailed his controversial Theory of Evolution.

In 1986, rangers hiking on Wolf Volcano on the northern end of Isabela Island noticed several odd-looking Land Iguanas. While most Land Iguanas in Galapagos are a uniform mottled yellow, this one was pink with dark spots and stripes.

Those responsible for the care of the Galapagos Islands have gotten serious about their upkeep. Recently, there have been many initiatives passed by the various institutions and agencies who care for the flora and fauna of the islands. One of the latest is the Galapagos Resident Course, a mandatory two-day course for anyone wishing to live and/or work on the islands.

The Galapagos Islands are world renowned as a SCUBA diving destination: people come from all over to see the turtles, whale sharks, hammerheads, colorful fish and other underwater marvels. Taking a land tour to see the islands themselves is a bonus that most divers enjoy as well. There has been a lot happening in the islands lately, however, that prospective visitors may need to know.

Galapagos is full of dazzling wildlife not found anywhere else: giant tortoises, Darwin's famous finches and mockingbirds, hawks, snakes and more. But ask a biologist, and he or she will tell you that the most impressive native resident is the marine iguana.

One of the highlights when visiting Galapagos is the chance to strap on a mask and snorkel and jump in with the fish. Galapagos is a world-class snorkeling and diving destination and every year thousands of visitors enjoy spending some quality time with local marine life.

CanopyCo is a new organization dedicated to preserving and repairing the Ecuadorian rainforest through modern reforestation techniques and education. It recently (November 2008) celebrated its first anniversary and is looking forward to many more.

Low, flat and rocky, North Seymour Island seems unimpressive from the panga taking visitors from the ship to the shore where the hike will begin. Never fear: this boulder-strewn island has a lot to offer. The landing can be a little challenging when the water is rough, but once you’re on land you’ll be greeted immediately by a colony of snoozing sea lions who may blink up at you a few times before returning to dreaming of fat, slow-moving fish.

Located off of Floreana Island, the Devil’s Crown is a ring of jagged rocks that jut out of the water not too far from shore. They get their name from the fact that they look roughly like a crown: they are in a circle and rather pointy when seen from a distance. The rest of the name comes from the notion that only the Devil could wear something so uncomfortable!

Founded in 1959, the Charles Darwin Foundation is dedicated to the preservation and conservation of the Galapagos Islands and the animals and plants that live there. They have many projects going on at any given time, and may include programs such as removal of introduced species, monitoring the health of certain animal or plant populations, helping set fishing limits and more.

Once the site of a salt mine, Puerto Egas is today probably the best visitor site on Santiago (James) Island. The easy walk along wide trails and a scenic shoreline is a great chance to see birds, marine iguanas, sea lions, Sally Lightfoot crabs and the elusive Galapagos Fur Seal.

Captain Rocafuerte, 34, has been with the Athala for two years. He is the primary ship's captain, working six weeks on board at a time before taking a three-week break. The Athala is proud to have the diligent, well trained Captain Rocafuerte in charge.

Fernandina, the youngest of the Galapagos Islands, is always a visitor favorite, as it is very beautiful and is home so several species rarely found anywhere else. Punta Espinosa is one of the best visitor sites in the islands, featuring marine iguanas, lava lizards, Galapagos Penguins, flightless cormorants, sea lions and interesting marine life.

Punta Suárez is one of only two visitor sites on pristine Española Island, and it's one of the most memorable walks in all of Galapagos. Punta Suárez features the chance to see the Waved Albatross, an extremely rare endemic species that only makes its home on Española.

September 29, 1835 The HMS Beagle, with a young Charles Darwin on board, only spent about five weeks in the Galapagos Islands, which seems short when you consider the importance the visit would have for Darwin, the Islands, and science in general. Darwin kept a journal, which he later expanded into a book, The Voyage of the Beagle, first published in 1837-1839.

A visit to Gardner Bay consists of two different yet equally fantastic spots. The bay is mostly known for the gorgeous white sand beach, which is long, secluded, and features a colony of sea lions for some good photo taking. The surf in the bay is not particularly rough, and the swimming is excellent. If you're lucky, a sea lion may want to swim with you! The colony at Gardner Bay is quite friendly and unafraid of tourists.

The Galapagos Islands are well-known as a worldwide Mecca for SCUBA divers, but what is often lost is the fact that you don't need to be SCUBA certified to enjoy the dazzling marine wildlife: a simple snorkel, fins and mask will do.

You can keep your tortoises, boobys, sea lions and sharks: according to many respected biologists, the most remarkable animal in all of Galapagos is the mild-mannered marine iguana. Their argument is this: while finches, giant tortoises, herons, penguins and sea lions are found all over the world, only Galapagos has a species of aquatic lizard that dines on algae.

Many Galapagos visitors will first set foot in the islands on Baltra. This unassuming, sun-drenched, flat, rocky island has some interesting history.

Anyone who has been to the Galapagos Islands knows the story. Of the several different species of giant tortoise to evolve on the islands over the centuries, some were still around and some were extinct (mostly due to sailors taking them for food in the 18th and 19th centuries). And then there was Lonesome George, the last remaining Pinta Island giant tortoise.

The remarkable Galapagos Penguin (Spheniscus mendiculus) is the only penguin species to be found naturally north of the equator. A favorite among visitors to the islands, they are often seen sunning themselves on rocks or swimming, deftly catching fish with surprising quickness. The total population of Galapagos penguins is very small, numbering only a few thousand in total.

The amazing diversity of life on the Galapagos Islands is largely due to a phenomenon known as the Humboldt Current. Ocean currents are caused and affected by many different factors, including the gravitational pull of the moon, the earth's rotation, underwater geography, salinity, wind and water temperature. These currents are very important to life on land, as they can affect climate, shipping, fishing and life such as birds or other species that live off of marine animals and fish.

The Galapagos Islands were formed by a "hot spot," or a place under the earth's core that causes the crust above it to form volcanoes. As the earth's crust, in this case the Nazca Plate, moves across it, a series of volcanoes forms, resulting in a chain of islands more or less in a line. In Galapagos, the Nazca Plate moves from west to east over the hot spot, forming volcanoes (which in turn form islands).

After 36 years of continual and exhaustive efforts, when it seemed impossible that the tortoise called "Lonesome George" - the last survivor of the Pinta Island giant tortoise species (Geochelone abigdoni) - would be able to reproduce, this morning park rangers in charge of the "Fausto Llerena" Captive Breeding Center found a nest with eggs laid last night by one of the two Wolf Volcano females that have shared a pen with him since 1993.

Located in the northern part of the archipelago, Genovesa (also known as Tower) is known to guides as "bird island" because of the many species of birds to nest there. Because it is somewhat remote, many land species never made their way there, allowing birds to dominate.

One of the animal species most commonly associated with the Galapagos, the giant tortoise is a remarkable animal.

Although most of the birds who make Galapagos their home feed on fish, crabs, squid and other marine life, there are many who feed on land or in the few freshwater bodied of water found inland.

In late 2007, the municipal governments of the islands of Santa Cruz, San Cristóbal and Isabela approved a new $100 tax to be levied on foreign tourists arriving in Galapagos who intend to do ship-based tours.