Flag of the Galapagos Islands. Mysterious Islands National Park. Cacti above Las Grietas crevice

Surprising as it sounds, there are no indigenous people on the Galapagos Islands. Mostly Ecuadorian mestizos live here - the descendants of Spanish colonists and South American Indians, who arrived here from the mainland in the second half of the last century.

And even earlier, English pirates felt good here in between robberies - the islands remained uninhabited for a long time after the discovery: they were located too far from the continent (the distance between the archipelago and Ecuador is as much as one hundred kilometers). An important role was also played by the fact that Galapagos Islands have almost no sources fresh water.

Even now, the population is small and does not exceed 30 thousand people who live only on five islands: Baltra, Isabella, San Cristobal and Santa Cruz, which is only 3.3% of common territory archipelago, while the islands are only partially inhabited - in the center or on the coast, near the marinas.

The Galapagos Islands are made up of thirteen major islands, six - small and one hundred and seven rocks and alluvial territories ( total area Galapagos is about 8 thousand km²). The archipelago is located in the Pacific Ocean, and is a province of the state of Ecuador (located 972 km to the west from it). If you carefully look at the Galapagos Islands on the map (they are located from 1° 40′ N to 1° 36′ S, and from 89° 16′ to 92° 01′ W), you can notice that in their shape they resemble a pentagon.

The Galapagos Islands were discovered at the beginning of the 16th century, when the ship of the Panamanian bishop Thomas de Berlanga accidentally deviated from the course. Recently, scientists have found that South American Indians have been here much earlier, because they found the remains of dishes and other traces of human activity.

Galapagos and volcanic activity

Like almost all archipelagos formed at great distances from the continent, the Galapagos Islands are of volcanic origin, since they were formed in the region of a transverse fault that cuts through the East Pacific Rise.

Volcanoes first appeared along this crack (from west to east), and after some time, about 5-10 million years ago, a volcanic plateau formed in one of the sections, and on it the Galapagos Islands, which have a complex configuration, winding , rocky shores, and under water - a huge number of coral reefs.

Some local volcanoes are still active. For example, the most active of them, the Sierra Negra, located on the island of Fernandina, has erupted more than twenty times since 1813.

Since people do not live here, its eruptions are dangerous only for flora and fauna. Another active volcano, Wolf, which is located on Isabella Island, erupts less frequently and is the highest point in the archipelago: its height is 1707 m.

Climate of Galapagos

The climate of the archipelago is primarily influenced by ocean currents and winds. Despite the fact that the Galapagos Islands are located near the equator, due to the cold Peruvian current washing the archipelago, the climate here is much cooler than in other areas of these latitudes: mean annual temperature is around 24°C (the hottest months are from December to June). Here, as in other equatorial regions, there are two seasons: rainy (December to April) and dry (July to October).

The vital activity of the archipelago

Such a significant distance from civilization could not but have a positive effect on the wildlife of the archipelago - it is so unique and interesting that it is not found anywhere else in the world.

That is why in the 1980s body of water around the islands was declared a “marine conservation area” (it should be noted that in size it is only inferior to the Great Barrier Reef, located off the coast of Australia), and UNESCO declared the Biosphere Reserve a national park, which is located on an area of ​​​​almost 700 hectares.

And not in vain, because about sixty species of birds live on the Galapagos Islands, half of which are endemic, not only a huge number of a wide variety of fish species live in the ocean depths, but there are also many sea lions, seals, eels, rays, dolphins, huge flocks ( about 300 individuals) hammerhead sharks swim.

Despite its proximity to the equator, here you can see representatives of not only the tropical, but also the Antarctic wildlife - moss grows near the lianas, parrots fly over the heads of the Galapagos penguins, and dolphins swim next to the seals. Some animals have long been symbols of the Galapagos Islands.

penguins from the equator

Galapagos penguins are the only penguin species in the world that is quite comfortable around the equator. These birds live mainly on the islands of Isabella and Fernandina, and nest in caves and lava voids.

Since the Galapagos Islands have a very hot and dry climate for penguins, these amazing birds have had to adapt in order to survive. First of all it showed up:

• In their size, the Galapagos penguins are considered the smallest penguins in the world: an adult bird is 50 cm tall and weighs about 2.5 kg;
• In terms of numbers - no more than 2 thousand individuals live here (and their population decreases every year), and therefore these birds are considered the smallest species of the family and are even listed in the Red Book;
• On the way of life - during the day, when the air temperature reaches its maximum, the Galapagos penguins sit in the water (they avoid it only during the molt that occurs before the start of the breeding season), and come ashore at night when it gets cooler.

elephant turtles

In the territory unique reserve the Galapagos tortoise lives - the largest tortoise on Earth, which is rightfully considered one of the longest-lived vertebrate animals in the world: in the wild Galapagos tortoises able to live for more than a hundred years, and in captivity live even longer.

For example, the oldest known turtle in the world, Henrietta, from the Australian Zoo, recently turned 175 years old (although the exact date of birth of this reptile is unknown, its approximate age has been determined using DNA tests). At the moment, the Galapagos Islands have twelve of the fifteen subspecies of these reptiles:

1. Smaller ones, whose weight ranges from 30 kg in females to 50 kg in males, have long and thin legs, a long neck and a saddle-shaped shell, which allows them to penetrate into the vegetation in case of danger and hide in it. They prefer to live on small islands, where lowlands and a drier climate prevail;
2. Larger ones, weighing from 200 to 400 kg (the difference between males and females is not as significant as in small species), have a short neck, a dome-shaped shell, the length of which is from 120 to 180 cm. They prefer to live on big islands, in high-mountain areas with a humid climate.

In previous centuries, the population of these animals has decreased significantly. The main reason is, of course, people, since the Galapagos tortoise is able to live for several months without food and water, sailors took them with them as “live canned food”. If in the 16th century their population numbered 250 thousand individuals, then in 1970 - only 3 thousand.

IN Lately thanks to captive-bred babies, the number of this species of turtles has slightly increased and, according to rough estimates, is about 19 thousand copies.

The Galapagos Islands on the world map resemble a scattering of pearls lost in the Pacific Ocean. This tropical paradise belongs to the republic. The archipelago consists of 13 main islands of volcanic origin, 6 small islets, 107 rocks, and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. About 90% of the territory is a natural national park.

The fame of the Galapagos Islands brought

1. Giant elephant tortoises, which gave the name to the archipelago. The weight of the shell of these amazing animals, resembling prehistoric creatures, reaches 200 kg, length - 1.5 m.
2. A visit to the islands by Charles Darwin in 1835, after which, in the course of his research, he put forward a "theory of the origin of species." The scientist drew attention to various types of unremarkable earth finches.
3. Penguins listed in the Red Book. The habitat of these arctic flightless birds at the equator is amazing fact. Penguins have chosen a place for themselves in the tropics and fit perfectly into the local fauna due to the cold current in the ocean, where they feel great.
4. Marine iguanas. Up to 300,000 of these lizards live in the Galapagos, found at almost every turn. They, oddly enough, most spend time in salt water, diving and getting food for themselves.
5. An unimaginable variety of flora and fauna in general. Here you can really see with your own eyes unusual and rare species, many of which are not found anywhere else on the planet.

The island is the largest, covers an area of ​​4640 sq. km and is shaped like a seahorse. What attracts tourists?

1. Here are the best scenic spots in Ecuador blue lagoons Galapagos Islands.
2. There are 6 on the island largest volcanoes, 5 of which are still in operation.
3. Only on the island of Isabela (and Fernandina) do local penguins lay their eggs and hatch their offspring.
4. Of extraordinary beauty, it is famous as the habitat of iguanas, they are found here at every turn.
5. Tagus bay. While relaxing in the Galapagos Islands, you should definitely visit here and climb to Lake Darwin.
6. On the island of Isabela, it is worth seeing the Wailing Wall with a sad story about the inhuman treatment of prisoners

The island is the second largest and the most populous. Tourist excursions and cruises to the Galapagos Islands most often start from here, because there is an airport nearby. What is remarkable about this place?

1. The Darwin Research Station is located on the island.
2. At one of the highest points are located, formed as a result of volcanic eruptions.
3. Here, in the thickets of mangrove trees, there is the Black Turtle Bay, where these ancient giants mate.

The island is considered the youngest and ranks third in size. What is interesting about this western sector of the Galapagos Islands?

1. Here is the active volcano La Combre, which wakes up every few years.
2. The town of Punto Espinosa is considered the home of the world's largest colony of marine iguanas. Here they are found in the hundreds.

Island San Cristobal famous for the versatility of the local flora and fauna, almost all species of animals and plants found on the Galapagos Islands live here. What is interesting about this corner of the archipelago?

1. Here is the capital of the Galapagos - Puerto Baquerizo Moreno.
2. Frigatebird Hill is known as Frigate Hill where these large birds can be observed.
3. Lake El Junco is the only freshwater source that never dries up. Here you can watch marsh birds and other representatives of birds.
4. Cape Pitt is famous for nesting birds of extraordinary beauty - blue-footed and red-footed boobies.

The island covers an area of ​​about 60 sq. km. This is the oldest island of the Galapagos, whose age is 3.5 million years. What is interesting for tourists in this area?

1. Here you can watch wavy albatrosses. It is on the rocks of Hispaniola, and nowhere else in the world, that these amazing rare birds nest.
2. The beach at Gardner Bay is very popular. The snow-white finest sand here resembles scattered flour.

Island Santa Maria was one of the first to be settled. There are two main attractions here:

1. which attracts thousands of curious tourists. It was formed by a crater extinct volcano and is interesting because teeth stick out of the water, resembling the shape of a crown.
2. In Shark Bay in Punto Cormoran, you can tickle your nerves by swimming with reef sharks.
3. Post Office Bay is famous for the oak barrels found here, which in ancient times served as mailboxes.

The island is famous for its unusual forest of pear cacti, which grow up to 10 meters in height and resemble powerful trees. Seagulls, phaetons, petrels nest on the rocks weathered over time.

Island Santiago (San Salvador) recognized as the best place to observe fur seals, which are found in only three places in the Galapagos. James Bay is the place where you are most likely to see these endemic animals. In addition, rock crabs, hermit crabs, four-eyed blennies, sea sponges live here.

The island is considered the geological center and is famous for its dark red sand beaches, which are loved by tourists. Such an unusual shade is due to the volcanic origin of the soil and the high content of iron oxide in it.

1. You need to keep in mind that it is under the protection and protection of the government, so the entrance to the territory is paid and is 100 US dollars per person.
2. It has its own rules of conduct and sightseeing. For tourists, a total of about 64 trails and sites have been allocated, from which it is forbidden to deviate.
3. The islands offer the following types of entertainment: turtle riding, swimming with sea lions, penguins, seals, snorkeling, diving, surfing, kayaking, hiking, cycling, horseback riding.
4. During excursions, observation and communication with the local fauna, it is forbidden to kindle fires, litter, make loud sounds and sudden movements that can harm them.
5. Of course, there are, and they offer the most varied levels of prices and services, from economy to luxury, but chic restaurants and social entertainment are unlikely to have a special meaning here. Therefore, instead of cocktail dresses and shoes, it is recommended to take comfortable cotton clothes and good photographic equipment here in order to capture the Galapagos Islands in a photo in all their amazing beauty.

How to get to the Galapogos Islands from Moscow?

For those who do not know where the Galapagos Islands are located on the world map, we recall that they are located west of the continent of South America, 1000 km from Ecuador.

The Galapagos Islands have airports in two places - on the islands of Baltra and San Cristobal, so you can only get here from the mainland of Ecuador by plane. The cost of a round-trip flight is on average about $350 - $400.

The Galapagos Islands (Islas Galápagos) or the Colón Archipelago (Archipiélago de Colón) are located in the Pacific Ocean. They are of volcanic origin and consist of 19 islands. Their total area is 8010 km 2, and the population is about 25 thousand people. The Galapagos Islands is a province of the same name in the South American country of Ecuador, separated from the mainland by 972 kilometers of ocean.

Colon's climate is divided into dry and wet seasons. From June to November the weather is cool and windy. In other months, considered high season relatively hot and rainy. Despite being close to the equator, Galapagos climate comfortable due to the coastal cool ocean current.

Located far from civilization, the archipelago is distinguished by picturesque landscapes, an amazing variety of wildlife, and excellent conditions for recreation. Warm water and excellent sandy beaches can be combined with walks around the protected islands, which are a natural zoo and botanical garden. The Galapagos Islands are very attractive for lovers of nature, animals, birds, diving and surfing. A significant part of the fauna is endemic.

The history of the discovery of the islands

The Galapagos Islands appeared on the world map in the 16th century. The first European to enter the archipelago in 1535 was the Spanish priest and traveler Thomas de Berlanga. Heading from Panama to Peru, he and his companions lost their course. On the islands they were met by giant tortoises, which the Spaniards called galapagos ("elephant turtles").

For the next three centuries, the Colon archipelago actually served as the residence of pirates. In 1832 it was annexed by Ecuador. After 3 years, a scientific expedition led by Charles Darwin arrived on the islands. Reserved islands with rich fauna, located far from civilization, were an excellent place for research by the future author of the theory of the origin of species.

Since 1936, the archipelago has received the status national park Ecuador. In 1978, Colon was included in the UNESCO list, and in 1985 - became biosphere reserve world importance.

List of all Galapagos Islands

Most famous islands, arranged in descending order of area:

Isabella Island

On Isabela Island (named after the Queen of Castile) is the highest Wolf volcano on Colon - 1707 m. The diameter of the crater of another volcano, Sierra Negra, is the second largest in the world. After the 2005 eruption of Volcan Chico, the lava that spilled out gave the local landscape an ethereal look. Not far from Alcedo volcano is Urbina Bay with black sandy beach. Isabela also has its own Wailing Wall (El muro de las Lagrimas). In the middle of the XX century. it was built in very difficult conditions by the prisoners of the correctional colony located here.

Almost absent on this island hiking trails. Only 2,500 inhabitants live in a small settlement of the island, mainly engaged in fishing. Tourism here is based only on visiting yachts of dignitaries and cozy picturesque corners of the island. These include a reef near which white sharks live and a turtle breeding center.

Santa Cruz Island

Santa Cruz Island is the most populated and developed in terms of tourism. Here is the main Galapagos port of Puerto Ayora. On the way to it, the craters Los Gemelos (“Twins”) are located on both sides. Between them you can see unusual vegetation and rare species of birds. Flora is represented by giant prickly pear cactus and mangroves.

Near the port is the Tortuga Bay beach, the giant tortoise center and the national park. On the territory of the island, tourists can go diving, swimming, birdwatching from a yacht. The island can also be explored on horseback or bicycle. For lovers of unexpected leisure activities, kayaking is provided.

You can stay in hotels. Moreover, the pricing policy here is varied, ranging from the cheapest economy class rooms to expensive presidential suites. From the port of Ayora, you can rent a boat and start traveling around the rest of the islands of the archipelago.

Darwin's largest research center is located on Santa Cruz Island. His work is aimed at preserving the nature of the Galapagos. The center employs not only eminent scientists, but also students, teachers, in general, all those who are not indifferent to environmental situation on the islands and in the world. Now one of the most important issues regarding the importation of pets into the archipelago is being resolved here.

San Salvador Island

On the island of San Salvador there is another famous beach - Puerto Egas. It was formed from volcanic tuff. It is believed that black sand has healing properties in diseases of the musculoskeletal system. San Salvador has the only permanent source of fresh water on Colon - a lake in the crater of the El Junco volcano.

Fernandina Island

The most active volcano of Colon, La Cumbre, is located on Fernandina Island. It "shoots" every few years. In Urbina Bay there is one of the rare coral reefs in the archipelago.

San Cristobal Island

The island of San Cristóbal represents the whole diversity of the Galapagos flora - from the desert to the pampas (subtropical steppes). Here is the capital of the archipelago - the city of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. It is the second most populated point of the Galapagos Islands. Here you need to visit the Museum of Interpretation, created in alliance with the Spaniards. It will tell you about the islands, their magmatic origin and natural features. Near the center there is also a small park with sea lions.

Santa Maria Island

Santa María is named after one of the Colombian caravels. Its original name is La Gallega ("Galician"). Like other ships of Columbus, she was named after the sailors who liked port prostitutes on their way to America. Columbus took great pains to persuade the captain of La Gallega to change the name. The sea belief was justified: the new name brought misfortune to the ship. Santa Maria ran aground.

Hispaniola Island

Southern volcanic island Galapagos is uninhabited.

Bartolome Island

Bartolome Island (Santiago) On one of the black shores of the island, you can watch iguanas, herons, seagulls and other animals. After many walks the best way relax will be swimming with dolphins and penguins. And having risen to the highest point of the island, you will have a picturesque view of the surrounding landscape.

Animal world of the islands

Established on Santa Cruz, the research center, together with the International Darwin Foundation, is doing a lot of conservation work. unique fauna and flora of the Galapagos Islands. Their main goal is to protect indigenous animals and plants from those brought from other places, first by pirates and Spaniards, and then by South Americans.

Seemingly harmless cattle devastate the local habitat, and cute kitties are very fond of Darwin's finches and local birds. Pigs constantly digging the earth destroy nests of turtles, iguanas, and unique vegetation. Black rats are enemies of small turtles. On the islands of Isabela, San Cristóbal, Santa Cruz and Floreana, the indigenous flora has practically disappeared, giving way to avocados, citrus fruits, blackberries, guava.

Galapagos or elephant tortoise

Among local fauna the most famous are elephant turtles, which gave the islands their name. They reach a length of 1.8 m and weigh up to 400 kg. Their life expectancy is more than a century, and in captivity - even 170 years. Turtles look like this respectable age. They feed on local shrubs and herbs, some of which are poisonous to other animals.

Turtles living on Kolon differ in the size and shape of the shell, as well as relative dimensions depending on the sex. On the large wet islands, the reptiles are larger and their shells are domed. And in turtles living on small arid islands, the shell is saddle-shaped. Males are twice (up to 54 kg) larger than females.

Before the appearance of people on the archipelago, a dozen and a half subspecies lived here with a total number of 250 thousand. By 1970, their population had declined to a life-threatening figure of 3,000. Human invasion of natural habitats, the spread of pigs, goats and rats led to this. The ability of turtles to go for months without food or drink gave rise to the barbaric use of them by sailors as "live canned food."

By the end of the XX century. people got hooked. To reverse the negative trend, several thousand captive-bred cubs were released to the islands. Now the number of elephant tortoises has reached 20 thousand, mainly settled on the island of Isabela, especially in the vicinity of the Alcedo volcano, and in the mountainous part of Isla Santa Cruz. However, the species continues to be classified as vulnerable.

Other representatives of the fauna

The second symbol of the archipelago is iguana sea lizards, which are found everywhere. The number of individuals reaches 300 thousand. They spend almost all the time in the water, and, crawling out to bask in the sun, they begin to ... blow their noses. So they eliminate excess sea salt. The world's largest colony of marine iguanas can be observed on the Punta Espinoza peninsula on Fernandina. And resembling miniature dinosaurs, terrestrial yellow iguanas can be seen in Urbina Bay bay islands Isabela.

Galapagos penguins gravitate towards the relatively colder islands of Isabela and Fernandina. Flightless (due to undeveloped wings) cormorants nest here, jumping between rocks. Lake Lago Balthazar on Isabela is interesting because many red flamingos live on its shores. The unique Galapagos albatrosses can be observed on the island of Española.

The best place to watch large birds - magnificent frigatebirds - Fragata Bird Hill on the island of San Cristóbal. And at Cape Cabo Pitt, all 3 species of gannets living on Colon nest.

Most fur seals live on the island of San Salvador. There are many other animals and birds here - chameleons, marine iguanas, sea lions, dolphins, doves, buzzards.

Diving enthusiasts will have even more encounters with animals on Colon. Many experienced divers call these islands the best place to observe the beauties of the underwater world. Here you can observe more than 300 species of beautiful colorful fish. Most fur seals - in the grotto on the island of San Salvador. Popular with divers are the Corona del Diablo (“Devil's Crown”) cliffs near the island of Santa María. Here you can swim close to sharks and rays, however, given the frequent undercurrents here.

Holiday prices in the Galapagos Islands

Citizens of Russia do not need a visa to visit (for up to 90 days) Colon.

How to get to the Galapagos Islands?You can only fly here. There are no direct flights from Russia to Ecuador. First you need to get to one of European capitals or to the USA (Miami), and then fly to Guayaquil (Guayaquil). The cost of the selected air ticket sales the average is 65000 RUR.

IN local airport tourists are charged a fee - 10 USD. From there, AeroGal, LAN and Tame operate flights to Colon. Estimated cost flight lasting about two hours - 200 USD - 250 USD.

Landing is made at one of two airports - Aeropuerto de San Cristobal or Aeropuerto Seymour, located on the islands of the same name. A one-time deposit is required upon arrival. resort fee 100 USD.

A common way to visit is by cruise, always starting from Santa Cruz Island. The cost strongly depends on the class of the room on the ship, as well as the number of days - 4.5 or 8. The price range is from 600 USD to 5000 USD.

When traveling independently around the islands, you can use boats plying between the islands of Santa Cruz, Isabela and San Cristobal. They leave twice a day. Ticket price - 25 USD - 30 USD. From the same points one-day excursions between them and to other islands are organized. The widest selection of offers is on Santa Cruz. Here is the most high prices- up to 180 USD.

The hotel service is relatively developed in Santa Cruz, especially in the city of Puerto Ayora. Offers range from modest single rooms for $15 per night to suites for $130. A wealthy company can even rent a mansion with a swimming pool and its own marina for 350 USD.

The territory of the Colon archipelago is a protected national park. Independent travel on the islands are not welcome. As a rule, tourists are accompanied by a guide who leads them along the paved paths and observation platforms.

What connects the great Charles Darwin with a group of lost islands in the Pacific Ocean? Why are the Galapagos Islands so famous, what is special about them? The point is the unique flora and fauna, which are endemics - a local, isolated ecosystem, where different types evolved without mixing with others. Darwin's stay on these islands was the impetus for his development of the evolutionary theory of the origin of species - natural selection, which became a great discovery. Let's see where the Galapagos Islands are located on the world map.

Location and climate of the Galapagos

The Galapagos Islands on the map are located in the Pacific Ocean, in the northwest South America, and territorially belong to the Republic of Ecuador. They are separated from the mainland by 972 km. The volcanic archipelago consists of 19 islands, it is the main attraction of Ecuador and the largest and most important world reserve. The first of them were formed about 10 million years ago as a result of the movement tectonic plates. Proximity to the equator and the local cold Humbald Current provided the archipelago with a comfortable two-season period with a stable air temperature of +23°C: from December to May - a warm and humid season, from June to November - a cool and dry one.

Summer in the Galapagos marks an air and water temperature of + 20 ° C, while it blows quite strong winds. The cold current also cools the air temperature, but saturates coastal waters with nutrient organisms that attract penguins, birds and schools of fish. The coast becomes densely populated, which attracts tourists, and albatrosses flock to the island of Hispaniola.

Warm tropical downpours are frequent during the winter months. Moisture, evaporating from the ground, creates a curtain of fog, but at an air and water temperature of + 25 ° C, humidity does not cause discomfort. Autumn is the time for divers, because undersea world becomes more diverse and beautiful. In winter, beautiful blue-footed boobies come here to nest. Spring in the Galapagos is wonderful - numerous endemics bloom (plants that can only be found here), and the sacrament of laying eggs by Galapagos tortoises takes place on the beaches.

Discovery and history of the Galapagos

The archipelago consists of 13 main inhabited islands, 6 small and a scattering of small rocks and ledges above the surface of the water. The Galapagos Islands were discovered in the spring of 1535 by the Spaniard Thomas de Berlanga, who became the first European to set foot on volcanic earth one of the islands. His ship accidentally veered off course, following from Panama to Peru, and stumbled upon an unfamiliar archipelago. Before the astonished eyes of the travelers stood in all its glory the primitive world inhabited by giant tortoises. By the way, this is where the name came from - galapagos (Spanish), that is, “elephant turtle”.

Historical milestones

Spanish conquistadors settled on the islands, but used them as a haven for pirates who attacked passing ships, until in 1832 "power changed." The archipelago passed into the possession of Ecuador. After 3 years, the expedition of Charles Darwin landed on it with an associate, naturalist Robert Fitzroy. Thus began the era of exploration of a unique ecosystem.

The archipelago has been declared national reserve, but during the Second World War, an American air force base was located on the island of Baltra, defending Panama Canal and monitoring enemy submarines in the region. Of the famous explorers, Thor Heyerdahl also visited the Galapagos, who was looking for traces of the Inca civilization there and found the same.

History of the archipelago in dates:

• In 1959, the International Fund for them was created in Brussels. Darwin, who in every possible way contributes to the study and preservation of a unique ecosystem;
• in 1964 - a research station was built on the island of Santa Cruz, which has carried out and is currently doing a great job of removing "non-native" flora and fauna in order to preserve the purity of endemic species;
• in 1973 - the government of Ecuador founded a province on the islands;
• in 1978 - UNESCO added the archipelago to the World Heritage List;
• in 1985 it became a biosphere reserve;
• in 1986 - coastal waters acquired the status of a protected area. The area of ​​\u200b\u200bocean coastal waters is 70 thousand km², it is the second largest after.

Description of the islands and attractions

The first navigation chart of the archipelago was drawn up in 1684 by the pirate Ambrose Cowley. He gave the names of the islands by the names of his acquaintances filibusters and the English nobles who patronized them. You can visit 13 islands out of 19, but only three of them have infrastructure and are built up with hotels and bungalows - Santa Cruz, Isabela and San Cristobal. The majority (90%!), On the contrary, have retained their original integrity and have been given over to animals, reptiles and birds.

The archipelago is located almost on the equator, and the area is very restless: the junction of three tectonic plates regularly generates eruptions of numerous volcanoes. But the rarest representatives of the animal and flora. White, black and red virgin beaches are beautiful, birds of paradise sing in the relic forests, dolphins, fur seals, turtles and even penguins frolic in the clear turquoise water of the lagoons. It's always summer in the Galapagos.

Isabela is the largest island

An area of ​​4640 m², named after Queen Isabella, who sponsored the expeditions of Christopher Columbus. The island is shaped like a seahorse and is riddled with six volcanoes that make up its surface. The highest is Wolf (1707 m), last eruption recorded in 1982. In its crater there is a rather large lake with islands. Isabela's other volcano, Sierra Negra, is also remarkable; its crater is the second largest in the world (10 km). The third in the ranking, Chico, erupted powerfully in 2005, and today its surroundings resemble a lunar landscape - tunnels, rivers and lava growths. The island has salt Lake Balthazar, he was chosen by flocks of red flamingos, and there is a settlement - Puerto Villamil.

Isabela Island is interesting for its history, and its main attraction is the Wailing Wall. In the post-war years, a correctional colony functioned on it. For educational purposes, prisoners were obliged to cut blocks from volcanic rock and carry them far from the place of extraction to where they erected a high wall. Hard labor under the scorching sun literally mowed down the ranks of the poor fellows, few survived in such conditions. In memory of them, a rather ridiculous wall 100 meters long and 8 meters high remained. In subsequent years, the prison building was razed to the ground, and the wall remained as a reminder of the atrocities of the overseers.

At the western tip of Isabela there is a bay and a beach, interesting with black sand. Coastal waters are literally teeming with inhabitants; turtles and sea ​​lions. Galapagos penguins, cormorants, iguanas, pelicans, gannets also live on the island. The slopes of volcanoes are inhabited by finches that can use tools - cactus needles, buzzards, land tortoises, flamingos and the Galapagos pigeon. But the most remarkable thing here is a scattering of small charming lagoons, where birds of paradise sing, and coastal waters are furrowed by hammerhead fish, ray fish, as well as sharks and killer whales.

Santa Cruz is the most populated

Another name is Indefatigable. This is the most big Island in the form of an almost even circle (square 985 km²), the center of the Galapagos civilization with the port city of Puerto Ayora, in which 12 thousand people live. There are many entertainments prepared for tourists on Santa Cruz:

• the beautiful beach of Torguga Bay;
• diving and acquaintance with marine life;
• boat trips between the islands and on a glass bottom boat;
• flying on an airplane or paragliding;
• watching giant tortoises.

On Santa Cruz is, as mentioned above, the research center. Charles Darwin, awarded the International Space Prize in 2002. The best naturalists, scientists, biologists, as well as students and volunteers work here. And in the bay called "Black Turtle", in the thickets of the mangrove forest, the ancient giants are engaged in procreation. Finches live among the thorns of the prickly pear cactus - the main attraction of the local flora.

Fernandina - the dormant volcano

This westernmost island is essentially a periodically waking up volcano called La Cumbre (642 km²). The last two eruptions were in 2005 and 2009, the second turned out to be unusually powerful: red-hot lava and ash shot into the sky to a 7-kilometer height. The name of the island came from King Ferdinand II of Aragon, who was also the patron of Columbus. In the center of the island there is a caldera (hollow) with a diameter of 6.5 km, formed as a result of the collapse of the crater. At its bottom, a lake periodically appears, and then disappears without a trace. Tourists are not allowed in the vicinity of the caldera because of the danger of collapses.

Actually, there is almost nothing to see on it, except for the mangroves on the coast, protruding into the ocean, and the largest population of marine iguanas in the town of Punta Espinosa. The rest of the landscape is a gray, hardened lava mass. Urbina Bay has a coral reef with rich underwater life, while Elizabeth Bay is home to penguins. They share it with pelicans who hide their fish in caves.

Baltra - iguana island

During the Second World War, there was an air force base of the US Army, and now there is international Airport linking the archipelago to the mainland. Flights are operated daily by TAME. The island is home to iguanas. For the sake of the experiment, in the 1930s, biologists moved 70 individuals to the nearby island of Simor Norte, but the iguanas that remained on Baltra died unexpectedly during the war. In the postwar years at the Center. Darwin restored the population and new generations repopulated Baltra.

Bartolome - Pirate's Hideout

A tiny but charming island (only 1.2 km²) is shaped like a horseshoe. From the very high point a section of lava stretches to the west, storing a source of fresh water, which is almost non-existent in the entire archipelago. Filibusters lived in the Pirates' Cave and robbed passing ships. There is a stunning Pinnacle Rock, from the top of which offers wonderful views of the coffee-colored beach. Penguins, sea lions and turtles live at its base. killer whales swim on underwater tunnel connecting the sea and two bays.

Interesting sights of other islands can be seen in the table:

Threat to Galapagos Species

However, no matter how isolated the archipelago is for alien representatives of flora and fauna, the Galapagos have one enemy - man. It was he who violated the purity of endemics and endangered many of the rarest species, and some of them completely disappeared from the face of the earth. Newly arriving "conquerors" in previous centuries released domestic animals to the islands, which rampaged on protected lands. Cats ruined egg layings, pigs dug the soil, damaging the root system of plants, and goats finished them off from above, eating leaves. Defenseless animals and plants turned out to be defenseless against barbarism. But in the last century, scientists sounded the alarm and carried out a massive cleansing of nature from strangers.

Animal world Galapagos

The seclusion of the Galapagos Islands has influenced the diversity and purity of species that have been preserved here, including the work of scientists. Many inhabitants are found only in the archipelago: about 60 species of birds, many fish and marine life.

"The land of fearless animals" - so it is appropriate to call the Galapagos. On any island, everywhere you can stumble upon a colored iguana sleeping on a stone, or flirting frigatebirds, or swimming penguins, as well as sluggish turtles. Animals are friendly and trusting, because they have no enemies, because there are no predators. The world of the archipelago is amazing, where those who, it would seem, do not belong here at all - penguins and seals live.

Humbaldt penguins

In order for the Galapagos penguins to survive in an unusual climate - too warm and dry, they evolved: local ones are very small in size, only 50 cm tall. The plumage is less dense than that of the Arctic counterparts, and there is less subcutaneous fat. To reduce body temperature, the Galapagos penguin can breathe frequently with its mouth open, just like a dog.

They lead a nocturnal lifestyle, and during the day, in the very heat, sit out in the water. Mostly penguins have chosen western islands, there, due to cold currents, the temperature in the sea is lower, and they breed on Isabela and Fernandina.

Swimming among the penguins in the Galapagos:

Land elephant turtles

Galapagos tortoises are so ancient that they are jokingly called the same age as the universe. These are the largest turtles on the planet, the weight of other individuals reaches six centners, and the length is up to two meters. Giants are long-lived, most trample the earth for more than a century, but there have been cases when caught turtles lived for at least 170 years.

These vertebrate giants inhabit 7 islands of the archipelago, and on islands with different climates they appearance differs. So, in those places where there is higher humidity on the hills, the shell of turtles is dome-shaped, the neck is short, and the animal itself is large. On flat islands with a dry climate, the shell has taken the form of a saddle, the neck is long, and the size of the turtle is smaller. This example makes clear Darwin's theory of the evolution of species.

According to Darwin, the evolution of all living things is based on three basic facts: more offspring are born than can survive; representatives of different species have different traits to adapt to the conditions offered; these traits are heritable. Thus, competition within species is formed and only the strongest can survive, passing on strong genes to offspring. This is how the principle of natural selection works.

Elephant tortoises almost died out in the 20th century because they were massively exterminated for their meat and shell. Of the 250 thousand of these reptiles, only 3,000 remained in the 70s. But scientists were closely engaged in the resurrection of the population and developed a program for growing relic armored ones on special farms. The bred individuals are then released to freedom. In the XXI century, the number of Galapagos tortoises is 19 thousand, and this species is designated as vulnerable.

marine iguana

A unique animal that lives only on these islands. The only marine lizard on the planet that, due to a lack of terrestrial food, has evolved and now feeds on algae. Iguanas crawl into the water in those places where it has warmed up enough, and plunge mainly in shallow water. It is amazing that they can hold their breath for an hour, at which time the oxygen stored before diving enters only the vital organs. Coming out of the water, the lizard hurries to warm up in the sun as soon as possible, clinging to hot stones, otherwise it may die from hypothermia. Its powerful claws form a strong grip even with smooth stone.

land iguana

A beautiful creature shimmering with all the colors of the rainbow. It feeds on juicy prickly pear fruits and fruits. An iguana can sit under a cactus for hours and wait for the fruit to fall off. Eats it along with thorns. The reptile pulls out needles stuck in its mouth with its paw or by rotating its tongue, and with its paw it can also remove thorns from its body. Not all iguanas are iguanas, and many gray land iguanas can be found on the islands. These are hybrids - the offspring of marine and terrestrial iguanas. Aquatic representatives of the species often attack land females and mate with them. Well, it has been established whether hybrids are capable of procreation.

This is an amazing bird. During the mating season, males inflate a huge bright red bag hanging from the larynx to attract females. The name is derived from the tendency to accompany ships - frigates - in the hope of a treat. Birds cannot land on water, because once wet they cannot fly, so they always hover over the sea. Before starting to attract a female, the male builds a cozy nest.

blue-footed boobies

Pretty beautiful and unusual bird large sizes- females reach a height of 80 cm. Its appearance justifies the name, since the legs with swimming membranes are blue. The brightness of the color is crucial when a female chooses a male for mating. Gannet laying is done every 8 months, 2-3 eggs each. Parents take turns sitting on the nest for 40 days, and the hatched chicks remain in it for more than three months.

Gannets feed on sea fish, they are excellent divers - the bird dives into the water from a height and goes vertically down to a depth of up to 25 m. It is interesting that the process of capturing fish occurs only on the way back to the surface, when surfacing. Gannets are prone to courage, the bird is not afraid of anyone, even a person, and fiercely protects the nest. The gannet is not endemic to the Galapagos, the islands are just the preferences of these birds, and you can see them in Mexico, in the Gulf of California, and on the islands.

Gabby courting a girlfriend:

Darwin's finches

At first glance, an ordinary little bird. But its importance in evolution is invaluable. On the example of finches, the great scientist derived his theory of natural selection. In short: the subspecies Darwin's finch is endemic to the Galapagos, millions of years ago, its ancestors were brought to the archipelago by a fair wind. Initially, one species of finches lived on all the islands, but under the influence of the external environment, it was forced to evolve. Different islands have their own climate and vegetation, so birds everywhere differ in the shape of their beak. In some it is thick and wide, in others it is narrow and sharp, that is, the beaks have changed in the conditions of different food production.

In 1858, Darwin's monumental work On the Origin of Species was published, which the church anathematized. From the point of view of religion, the Creator created the world, respectively, he also created 13 different finches for 13 Galapagos Islands.

The Galapagos Islands are home to many other representatives of the animal world:

• the green sea turtle is a beautiful reptile famous for always returning to its birthplace thousands of miles away to lay its eggs;
• sea ​​lions and seals - both species belong to the genus of eared seals;
• Galapagos cormorant is a land bird that has lost the ability to fly. It feeds on fish no further than 100 m from the shore, and enters the water, rotating with its whole body, as if drilling into it;
• buzzard - a falcon about 55 cm long, is the only predator of the archipelago. It feeds on lizards and small iguanas;
• white (mask) booby - has a clear rim around the beak and black edging of the wings. It always lays two eggs, but only one chick survives, the strongest, and the weaker ones are pushed out of the nest by the parents (natural selection in action!).

The Galapagos is a unique place, and scientists are putting a lot of effort into keeping the populations in a "pure" form. The archipelago is difficult, expensive and time consuming to get to, but it's worth the effort to be able to see the incredible animals and birds up close. They lived long before humans appeared on the planet as a species.

The Pacific Galapagos Islands, which belong to the Republic of Ecuador, are also called the Turtle Islands, because in Spanish "turtles" are "galapagos". It is not surprising that this particular animal has become a symbol of the archipelago, because it is inhabited by a large number of giant sea turtles. But, of course, turtles are not the only pride of the islands. There are many plants and animals that can not be found anywhere else, such as the marine iguana, endemic species of seals or the Galapagos fur seal.

Such a rich natural heritage cannot be left without protection, because most of the rare animals today are close to extinction. The Galapagos National Park includes almost all the islands of the archipelago. The islands are diverse: some of them are covered with dense tropical vegetation, while others have a desert “lunar” landscape.

The Galapagos Islands are amazing and lovers wildlife they visit these places with pleasure to observe rare creatures and enjoy wonderful views.

Hispaniola Island

Hispaniola is also known as Hood. Hispaniola was named after Spain. The area of ​​the island is about 60 square kilometers, and maximum height- 206 meters above sea level.

The age of the island is estimated at 3 and a half million years. This is the oldest and most south island from the entire archipelago. WITH geographic point it is the most classic example of a shield volcano, which was formed by a single caldera in the center of the island. Over time, the island moved away from the hot spot, then the volcano died out, and erosion began.

The remoteness of the island from the main group of islands has contributed to the development of a large number of endemic inhabitants that are adapted exclusively to local natural resources.

The Galapagos albatross, a rare bird species, lives here. The steep and forbidding cliffs of the island are great for taking off these large birds. The hooded mockingbird, a bronze fearless bird, is also endemic to the island.

In addition, guests of the island can meet brightly colored marine iguanas, gulls, lizards, boobies and finches here. And large spacious bays attract a large number of sea lions.

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Santa Cruz Island

Santa Cruz is the second largest island Galapagos archipelago. On it is located The largest city the Puerto Ayora archipelago, here you can find all the benefits of civilization. But the main attractions of the island, of course, are natural objects, of which there are many on the island, because almost its entire area is occupied by the Galapagos National Park.

Eat on Santa Cruz amazing place: located near Puerto Ayora Tortuga Bay, which is a long white sand beach, which is characterized by fairly strong waves. It is here that surfers can practice their favorite sport, and swimmers can relax in peace at the end of the beach strip, where there are no surfers anymore. Here you can explore the mangroves, watch mockingbirds, pelicans, marine iguanas or swim with sharks.

In the southwest of the island is the bay of Las Ninfas with calm waters, surrounded by cliffs in tropical greenery, the nearby Bellavista tunnel is known for being inhabited by sea ​​turtles, different types of fish, stingrays and sharks. Generally worthy places detailed description there are many on Santa Cruz Island, but it is better to see them with your own eyes.

Isabella Island. was named after the Queen of Spain. It is the largest island of the Galapagos Islands. The island was discovered by Christopher Columbus.

The area of ​​the island is about 4640 square kilometers, the length is 100 kilometers, and its shape resembles the figure of a sea horse. At the moment, there are five young active volcanoes on the island, of which two are located on the Equator.

The island is very rich in its flora and fauna. It is amazing a nice place! Marine iguanas, penguins, crabs, pelicans, Galapagos tortoises, boobies and other inhabitants live here. From the island you can watch the Galapagos whales, of which there are 16 species.

The local population of the island is only about 2200 people. This area is the most important reserve in the country, because it is here that more than 60 percent of the species of flora and fauna are concentrated.

Volcano Sierra Negra

Sierra Negra - an active volcano on Isabela Island, has a crater with a diameter of 11 kilometers. The height of the volcano is 1124 meters. Tourists are attracted by its size and picturesque landscapes surrounding the volcano.

Sierra Negra is active volcano, the last eruption of which was in 2005. Volcano has enough big sizes, with a crater striking in its size - a huge funnel with a diameter of 11 kilometers! Tourists are offered to climb and ride along the edge of the crater on horseback, during which you can not only see the crater, but also the birds and animals that inhabit the slopes of the volcano.

Floreana Island

Floreana is an island in the Galapagos Islands in the Pacific Ocean. The island is also known as Santa Maria or Charles Island. It is the sixth largest island in the Galapagos Archipelago. Its area is about 173 square kilometers.

Floreana Island was named after the first president of Ecuador, Juan José Flores, under whose rule the Galapagos Islands came under the jurisdiction of Ecuador. And before that, the island was called Santa Maria in honor of one caravel of Christopher Columbus.

The main attraction of the island is the unusually beautiful pink flamingos who have chosen the lagoon at Cape Punta Cormorant. Here you can find a beach where large sea turtles lay their eggs.

At Punta Cormorant Point, tourists will find black sandy shores, which, thanks to the inclusions of the mineral peridot, shimmer with green crystals. These inclusions indicate strong volcanic eruptions.

Fernandina Island

Fernandina Island of the Galapagos archipelago is located in the waters Pacific Ocean and was named so in honor of the king of Spain, who supported the great discoverer Columbus in his expedition.

In the very center of the island there is an active volcano La Cumbre, in this regard, a trip along Fernandina poses some threat to tourists. There you can also see a depression formed as a result of the collapse of the top of the volcano, at the bottom of which shimmers with all the colors of the rainbow volcanic lake. Tourists are not allowed here, so you have to be content with walks along the coast, admiring endless expanses Pacific Ocean.

Flora is not rich, the only thing that can survive in difficult natural conditions laurel cacti, of which there are a great many, and mangroves along the coast.

A pleasant surprise may be a meeting with cormorants, marine iguanas, and, of course, the famous Galapagos penguins. And on the ocean shore, sea lions bask in the rays of the hot sun, sometimes giving their loud voice, capable of blocking the bewitching sound of the surf.

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Santa Fe Island

Santa Fe Island is located in the middle of the Galapagos archipelago, has an area of ​​24 square kilometers. Tourists are attracted by one of the most beautiful bays on the islands and a variety of flora and fauna.

The bay of the island is its main attraction, it is protected from winds and storms and attracts with its clear turquoise waters. Also, tourists can see various animals living on the island and in its waters - sea lions, turtles, rays, iguanas and many others. Walks away from the coastline will also be interesting, where there will be an opportunity to look at various types of cacti and other exotic plants.

The most popular attractions in the Galapagos Islands with descriptions and photos for every taste. choose best places to visit the famous places of the Galapagos Islands on our website.

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