An inspiration to Charles Darwin, these Islands lying in the Pacific Ocean have 18 main islands, smaller islands and 107 rocks and islets and are famed for its endemic species. These species were studied by Charles Darwin and hence the theory of evolution by “natural selection” was concluded. The islands and the ocean surrounding it located in the Ecuadorian province form a national park and a marine reserve. The islands are very sparsely populated with only a population of approximately 27000 humans with Spanish being the main language. These beautiful islands can hence satiate every Wildlifer with its volcanic mountains, the ocean, the beaches and of course the species that inhabitate them. The wildlife here is extremely comfortable with humans and could not be bothered by them, some may even give you the most rewarding poses.
Galapagos islands are located just 906 kms from west Ecuador. The best way would be to land at the airports in Guayaquil or Ecuador’s capital, Quito and then take a domestic flight to the islands.
Carriers: KLM, LUFTHANSA, AIR FRANCE, AIR INDIA, IBERIA, DELTA, EGYPTAIR, EMIRATES and Many other major International carriers for Ecuador going via Europe or United States.
Two daily flights in the morning ONLY
Carrier: TAME
Route: Quito-Guayaquil-Galapagos
Stops: 1
Length: 2hrs / 15 min
Carrier: AEROGAL
Route: Quito-Guayaquil-Galapagos
Stops: 1
Length: 2hrs / 15 min
The Galapagos National Park was established in 1959 and has been named a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. The islands are the national parks and the surrounding sea a Marine Reserve. More than 1900 of the 5000 unique species inhabiting the park are endemic and cannot be found anywhere in the world!
ACCESS :Cruise is the best option to visit the Galapagos for wildlife. One could also fly into the San Cristobal and Baltra islands. Seymour airport at the Baltra is however the best option for private planes as it is equipped for overnight parking.
SIZE :8010 sq. km.
WILDLIFE :There are 5000 unique species of animals found in the Galapagos and more than 1900 of these are endemic! 32 indigenous species including the sperm whale, the inquisitive sea lions, beaked and Rorqual whales, the Orca have been found at the island. The reptiles (around 28 found and 19 are endemic) include the Iguanas, the green sea turtles, giant tortoise and lonesome George, Geckos, lava lizards and sea snakes. 13 Darwin finches and more than 150 other species of birds have been found here. Some other fascinating sea animals found are the black tipped and tame reef sharks and the manta rays.
ACTIVITIES :Cruise and canoe safaris, Birdwatching, Walking and hiking, Kayaking, Snorkeling and Scuba Diving
Tailor-made holidays & tours for the discerning traveller