- A unique place where the most kind and extraordinary animals in the world live. And you can meet with them, stepping on the archipelago, for a few minutes, if not seconds.

Where are there Galapagos Islands

- The famous archipelago, inspired by Charles Darwin on the creation of the theory of natural selection. There are islands in a quiet window off the coast South America. On the Islands of the Archipelago with the fields of frozen lava flows, cactus forests covered with lush emerald vegetation, highlands, transparent turquoise bays and serene tropical beaches with clean white sand, live the most unique and amazing on the beauty of creating.

Those who do not know, let's say that this mysterious archipelago is located 1000 kilometers from the coast of the continental part of Ecuador. They are right on the equator line. The archipelago consists of a group of volcanic islands who have chosen, just say, not the most peaceful place to live. This is one of the most active sections of the earth's crust, at the junction of three constantly drifting tectonic plates. This young education is only 5 million years old, and - judging by the recent manifestations of volcanic activity - it has not yet acquired its final appearance. There are visible dilapidated crater, fields of frozen flows of lava and places of volcanic ash.

Galapagos Islands - Short description

The archipelago includes thirteen islands of more than 10 square kilometers, six small and more than a hundred tiny uninhabited islands. Despite the size, each island has its own unique atmosphere, landscape and a unique animal world. Many local inhabitants are endemics not only for the entire Galapagos archipelago as a whole, but also for each island separately. Therefore, the more islands to visit, the more unique agenic animals can be seen.

It is not necessary to miss here: for example, one day can be observed for the digested tracks of time with elephant turtles that are slowly moving in a foggy haze of local highly. And the next - already fun to swim under water with restless sea lions in the crystal clear waters of the archipelago. Or sunbathe on black lava rocks next to the sea iguanami, similar to the descendants of prehistoric dinosaurs. Another option is to be attached not far from Galapagos Albatrosov to enjoy their wedding dances, famous for its entertainment for the whole world. During the dancing, the albatrosse is freezed with straightened wings and a fans with a tail. Then they pull the neck, cast back the head and begin to rhythmically pectinate the paws.

Beauty of the Galapagos Islands

It is almost impossible to exaggerate the wonders that make in themselves.

Here every corner - including numerous shallow water, beaches and trails - supremely friendly and inquisitive animals, so unique that even from afar, they cannot be found anywhere else all over the world. Only here you can see such unique wonders of nature, like, for example, tropical penguins, or Olushi with bright blue paws, which they seemed to be specially painted. Here you can meet dyatlovy treewear - some of the few pi bugs using real labor tools - cactus needles, as well as males of magnificent frigates, in a marriage, like a balloon ringing their red throat bags to attract females.

The uniqueness of the archipelago also lies in the fact that in many respects it remained almost unchanged from the distant 1835, when Charles Darwin came on his land. But, unfortunately, changes are not far off. The incessant demand of Asian countries on the Guns (living in the local waters of "sea cucumbers") and the sharks of the fins led to the widespread spread of illegal poacher's fishery, empty and ruining the local life of water. The rapid growth of the flow of immigrants in combination with the seven-world economic growth rates caused an incredible influx of people who settled on the Islands of the Archipelago (today the number of permanent local population exceeds 30 thousand people who live on four different islands). But the worst thing is that they also brought a dangerous "baggage" in the form of alien mammals, insects, plants and diseases. They pose a serious threat to an incredibly fragile ecosystem of the archipelago.

But, among the most striking changes in the archipelago in recent years, an annually increasing number of tourist arriving around tourists can be attributed. Since 1991, when the archipelago has visited no more than 40 thousand tourists, the number of hunters for local attractions increased exactly 4 times and today is 160 thousand.

This led to the fact that from time to time the most popular tourist trails Here they become so animated that they are literally not pouring into tourists, as on the sidewalks of the central streets of large cities. But everything is not so bad. Despite the changes that have occurred, in the archipelago, the quiet secluded corners still have been preserved, where you can relax, and a local living nature, despite everything, remains as friendly and surprisingly located to people, as in the time of Darwin.

Galapagos: Animal World of Islands

The most interesting from the "hot tens" of animals, for which most tourists are sent to, this is: Galapagos Penguin, Galapagos Fluttering Cormorant, Galapagos, Galapagos Albatross, Magnificent Frigate, Darwinov, or Earth, Reuses (any of all 13 species), ivory, Or Giant Galapagos, Turtle, Sea Iguana, Galapagos Sea Lion and Marine Cat. All the rest of living critic is welcome as a pleasant bonus. All the listed animals, with the exception of the Bluebeat Olush and magnificent frigates, found almost everywhere relate to unique endemic species that cannot be seen anywhere else on Earth.

Forced to live in hot tropics, Galapagos Penguins are mainly assembled on the islands of the Western archipelago's tip, where the temperature of the water is maintained at a rather low level due to the cold currents prevailing in this area. Galapagos penguins can be seen in various places on the territory of the archipelago, but only two islands are the only districts of their reproduction - Isabel and Fernandine. In addition, these two islands are also the only nesting area of \u200b\u200bthe Galapagos non-flying cormorants. As it is clear from the name, these cormorants cannot fly, but they use their short underdeveloped wings to hold their equilibrium while jumping from the rock on the cliff. The rarest Galapagos Albatrosse nests only on the island of Espanyola, which is part of the archipelago, and more in the world (with the exception of several couples that arrange nests on the small island of Isla de la Plata, the name of which translated from Spanish means "Silver Island") located near the continental part of Ecuador). Watch these amazing birds on the island can be in the interval from April to December.

The most legendary bird inhabitants of the archipelago are earthen reels, or, as they are also called, Darwinov. As a result of its five-week stay at the "enchanted" islands of the Darwin Archipelago, suggested that at least a dozen species of rather unprecedented little paths occurring here from a single species inhabited on the continent. This assumption was based on the most important discovery in the science of that time. The basis for guesses was various forms of beak, which possessed birds, as well as their clear specialization on a specific type of food. By connecting all this together, Darwin came to the conclusion that they developed his differences in the struggle for survival to take their own niche. Therefore, one of them hunt for small insects, while others received the abundance of seeds and remained as a result of evolution.

Others, no less amazing inhabitants of the Galapagos Islands were famous for the whole world - ancient almost as a world of elephant, or giant Galapagos, turtles.

Considering the huge size of the turtles reaching 1.5 meters in length, as well as the overall impression that is created at the sight of these aspects of the annoying moss of animals with a wrinkled head hiding in the shell, and good-natured toothless ruffles, they are more like the immigrants from the prehistoric era.
It is believed that once on the islands of the archipelago, 15 different subspecies of elephant turtles lived, which differ significantly from each other in size, the form of the shell and the distribution area. However, 4 of them were extinct almost immediately after arriving at the islands of the first people (in general, the total number of their populations, which had previously established 250 thousand, today decreased to approximately 15 thousand individuals).

All giant galapagos turtles are long-livers and mostly live at least to a century of anniversary. This may mean that some who preserved to this day the turtle lived on the islands in the time of Darwin. The best places to observe the giant Galapagoski turtles, according to the generally accepted opinion, are considered the highland regions of Santa Cruz Island, the surroundings of Volcano Alfo and Isabel Island, where their largest population lives. In addition, in small quantities, they are also found on the Islands of San Cristobal, Santiago, Espanyola and Pinson.

And the list of animals that have become real symbols of Galapagos, unsurpassed sea iguanas are the only lizard in the world, carrying out most of the time in the sea. In total, in the water area of \u200b\u200bthe Galapagos Islands, according to estimates, up to 300,000 naval iguan lives, therefore, considering such a wide prevalence, there are more difficult to see them there rather than the opposite. Lazily basking in the sun after tedious dive, they take a fixed pose and "high" through the nostrils of the surplus of salt, which is so rich sea \u200b\u200bwater. So where this white foam on the faces come from.

The surrounding archipelago of the sea is incredibly rich in the brightest maritime love, so underwater swimming here promises many stunning meetings and unforgettable impressions. And this the best way Get to knowing it closer with incredibly perky sea lions that occur here almost everywhere.

Sea seals are traditionally more difficult, but on the territory of the archipelago there is still a couple of places where the meeting with them is practically guaranteed (the best of them, where these amazing creatures can be considered from a fairly close distance, of course, seals of the grotto on Santiago island) are considered.

In addition, in the archipelago water area you can also swim under water with penguins, non-flying cormorants, marine iguanami, green turtles and more than 300 species of colorful fish.

As for exclusively marine inhabitants, under water here you can observe a practically unlimited manifold: from ordinary spotted orchairs to yellow-minded fish and sharks, of which the most common certainty is a reef shark, but if you are lucky, here you can also meet dark reef rhythic sharks , Galapagos gray sharks, sharks and even elusive whale sharks.

Nevertheless, depending on who specifically, there is a desire to see, it is important not only to choose the right place, but also time, since the possibilities of observation and communicating with local animals are significantly different depending on the particular season and even the month. For example, watching their green eggs sea turtle, It is possible in January. Receive unforgettable impressions From swimming with "reactive" penguins in the water area of \u200b\u200bBartolome - from May to the end of September.

Humpback whales begin to tighten into the water area closer to June. From July to the end of September, it is considered the best for observing marine birds, as it comes from the peak of their annual activity. The height of the season of appearance on the light of newborns of marine lions occurs approximately in August, while they are becoming more active about November and during snorkeling ask tourists of the real heat, in general, they do not give a minute of peace. And finally, in December, they hatch out the eggs of the Giant Galapagos Turtles in December.

Galapagos Islands - Excursions, Tours

In total, there are more than 60 seats allowed for visiting and holding tourist excursions in the archipelago.

Santa Cruz (tireless)

Most rounds of Galapagos Islands take their origin on the island of Santa Cruz formed on the place of the huge extluous volcano. The island itself is located close to the archipelago's main airport on the Baltra Island, and its capital is Puerto Aior - the largest settlement in Galapaghos with the largest inhabitants.

Not far from the administrative center, the famous Research Station named after Charles Darwin, where you can deal with valuable information about the history of the island and the work on the protection ambientconducted under the direction of the International Foundation Charles Darwin. In addition, the station is implemented for feeding and preserving giant turtles, within which young representatives of this fragile appearance are derived.

But first of all, the island is known for becoming the last refuge for the most famous and ancient bachelor in the world - "Lonely George," - the inhabitant, which turned into a real legend of the archipelago, the last of the representatives of the subspecies of Abingdon Elephant Turtles, who lived on Pinta Island. In addition, inspecting the island, you can see Galapagos shepherds, not less than nine species of earthwinds, Galapagos crossbars, fiery mogids, as well as many other, no less amazing birds.

The fascinating path to the highlands of the Island of Santa Cruz, running through countless agricultural land, leads directly into the shrouded foggy forest, full of a wide variety of feathered. In addition, if you listen to a pretty, you can hear how the giant galapagos turtles are made through the thick thickets, the galapagos turtles are pierced. Pressing to help a little luck, you can even personally see one of them. You can still see the dyatlovy tree reels, fascinating representatives of the Familia family - some of the few who use the tools of labor. In fact, these seamless reels have long adapted to use the cactus needle as a tool for producing insects and larvae from wood cavities.

The impressions of snorkeling on the island of Santa Cruz also have every chance of becoming completely unforgettable. Cape Estrada and Las Bahas Beach Beach and Las Baich Beach, Although Las Grienetas Bay and Laguna Lady Grietyas are also considered to be the best places for scuba diving in the island.

Island Santa Fe (Barrington)

Located in the middle between the Islands of Santa Cruz and San Cristobal, Santa Fe is characterized by the simplest relief compared to the rest of the neighbors in the archipelago. Thanks to the lagunas with transparent turquoise water and beaches with the smallest white sand, this island could well claim the title of an ideal model of a lost tropical paradise.

There are several colonies of Galapagos on the island sea Lviv, as a result, it is considered one of the best places for energetic dance in quiet transparent waters surrounding lagoon with these incredibly abrupt and funny animals. According to an unusual forest, consisting of 10-meter barbed pear cacti, a winding pathway passes, which often come across pale constructions of the Island of Santa Fe - endemic subspecies of the land iguan. In addition, this unique forest is considered an excellent place to observe Galapagos Knubuki, who, sitting in safety on prickly cactus, can let them go close enough. And from the sheer coastal cliffs, stunning panoramic views opens.

Florean Island (Other Names - Santa Maria, Charles Island) Florean is considered the oldest settlement On the archipelago, because long before the tourists here the centuries ago, pirates and kitobi were liked.

In the area of \u200b\u200bCape Korotran, located on the north coast of the island, there are two magnificent beach (on one of which sand is so small and clean that it can be accepted from afar), where in the period from January to May, the green sea turtles are laying off . And in a secluded limana between the beaches is hidden from a curious eye a whole colony of stunning red flamingos.

All this is the magnificence of the "Crown of the Devil" - located nearby the semi-duty volcanic cone, scuba diving in the area of \u200b\u200bwhich promises truly unforgettable impressions. Here there are all chances to get acquainted with Galapagos sea lions, green marine turtles, octopus and myriads of colorful sea fish. If you are lucky, here you can even see the hammer shark.

Also, it is also necessary to visit the post office, where for a long time there is a large wooden barrel, part-time performing the function of the improvised mailbox. Despite the fact that she was brought here by British voyages in 1793, it also uses to this day. Continuing a long tradition, tourists lower their letters into it if a person lives next to them, "a letter in the barrel is required and omitted in the mailbox on returning home.

Espanyola Island (Hood)

This distant island, located on the southeast outskirts of the archipelago, has become the most widely known due to the fact that it is the only place of nesting of rare Galapagos albatrosov. In the period from April to December on the coastal cliffs of Cape Suarez, along with the Bulb Olles, approximately 12,000 pairs of albatrosov nest. On the island also nests the largest colony of the Bluewide Olush archipelago in the entire territory, and along the shore in large quantities there are marine and lava iguana. A special entertainment of the landscape gives jets of water, like geysers sprieled to a height of up to 20 meters from the designer located here.

Gardner Bay, located on the northeast coast of the island, is mostly notable for magnificent beaches, as if swimming the smallest white sand, where the whole Colony of Galapagos Nautical Lviv lives, swimming with whom will probably deliver a lot of amazing impressions. The idyllic sandy shores of the island are the main area of \u200b\u200bthe masonry of the eggs of green sea turtles, and then in the direction of the inaccessible rock of the cortuga under water, you can meet whole constellation of bright marine fish. On the shore, squeezes, belonging to the endemic meaning of the island of Espanyola, and other unique inhabitants of the island are local Lava Iguana.

San Cristobal Island (Chatham)

In addition to the local administrative center, Puerto-Baroiso-Moreno, on the island of San Cristobal there are also several excellent places to observe the unique local fauna.

On the hill of Fregatberd Hill (which means "the hill of frigates"), you can observe magnificent and large frigates. In addition, the hill opens a magnificent view of the rebel the azure bay. Laguna El Gijunko, located in the mountainous part of the island, is noteworthy in that it is the only freshwater reservoir in the Galapagos Islands. Its surroundings are considered a great place to observe marsh birds and other local representatives of the Familia family. A truly unique place is both Pitt Cape, located on the northeast coast of the island, where all three types of Olush live in the Galapagos Islands nest.

Sea lions, mockings - endemics of San Cristobal Island, several types of earthwinds, fiery mugs, as well as local lava iguana and their sea tribesmen.

Santiago Island (James or San Salvador Island)

Santiago Island is located at the place of crossing the crater of two volcanoes and, according to a generally accepted opinion, is considered to be the best place to observe the endemics of the archipelago - Galapagos marine seas (which, in addition to the island, are found only in a pair of other places in the archipelago). Guaranteed place for meetings with these animals is considered James Bay on the west coast of the island, where in Puerto Egas a whole colony marine Cotes He chose the place on the shore right behind the littoral.

The extended coastline of Puerto Egas covered with frozen lava flows, generously decorated with dilapidated, weathered rocks. Sea iguana is undressed here everywhere, and their land tribesmen in shallow water eatens seaweed, growing on the surface of the water. The coastal literlies on the island are extremely rich in various amazing gravestones, including spotted rock crabs, shells, sea sponges, four-headed sea dogs, which are endemics of the island, and many coastal birds (many completely unusual types of migratory birds have been repeatedly recorded).

Walking around the island, you can see the dyatlovy woody reels, several types of earthwinds, fiery mogids, Galapagos kanyukov and ruling, as well as many other, not less terrific birds. If you are very lucky, here you can even see the rarest mice - endemics of the island of Santiago, who for a long time were considered forever disappeared from the face of the Earth, as long as the view was not re-opened in 1997. The island is also perfect for observing other endemics - Galapagos snakes reaching the length of one meter. With frightening sizes, they are completely not poisonous.

This place is also excellent for scuba diving, including marine lions, and in case of luck - with almost elusive sea cats.

Bartolome Island

First of all, Bartolome is famous for the fact that it contains one of the most famous attractions of the Galapagos Islands - a dilapidated pointed rock of volcanic origin of the Pinot, in shape resembling an index finger.

The magnificent beach with white, crystal clear sand, stretching at the foot of the cliff, opens excellent opportunities for swimming with penguins, green sea turtles, sea lions and countless bright tropical fish.

In addition, there are many other, no less amazing animals on the island, including the Bluebell Olush, the Red Coast Phaetons, Lavova Herkels, which are less poeticly called Galapagos Green Quakes, Fire Mudchodov, Sea Iguan and incredibly bright spotted rock crabs. Having reached the far end of the beach and moving on the other side, in the marchs of the shore, you can also see the many who have not yet had time to grow up white reef rhyphic sharks, lively crowded in transparent turquoise water.

From the coast to the highest point of the island (which the locals also poetically referred to the "rock broken hearts"), located at an altitude of 114 meters, leads a huge staircase from a variety of wooden steps, surrounded by sides of hot lavam sands. To take the climbing on the high staircase is best in the morning, even before breakfast, when a refreshing coolness reigns over the island and a breathtaking panorama opens with two azure bays located at the foot.

Isabel Island (Albeemarl)

The biggest island of the Galapagos Archipelago, Isabel noteworthy that on its territory there are six largest volcanoes, five of which to this day are valid. Samoa high point The archipelago reaching 1707 meters is Wolf volcano, located in the northeast corner of the island, right on the equator line.

First of all, the island is considered an ideal place For observation of giant galapagos turtles. In total, about 10,000 of these ancient gigids live here is much larger than on other archipelago islands. Moreover, in the area of \u200b\u200beach of the five volcanoes - Sierra Negro (150 m), Sierra Asul (210 m), Darwin (305 m), Wolf (610 m) and Alfo (1520 m) - live various local subspecies of elephant turtles. The best place to observe the turtles is the highlands hubby haze in the Alfo volcano area. And although the path goes there is not enough, yet it is recommended to rise to seek these amazing creatures. Most often, the turtles can be caught in small dirty puddles in the caldera of the volcano.

Isabel is also one of the two islands of the archipelago (in addition to Fernandine), where the Galapagos penguins and non-flying cormorants are surrounding their chicks. On the west coast of the island, Elizabeth bay, which is also the owner of a major record, as the world's largest colony of Galapagos Penguins live on her shores.

The north is the urblu bay, where sea iguana and one of the largest and most striking representatives of their land tribesmen are found on the entire archipelago - Concomfort. This place is also ideal for monitoring Galapagos Penguins and Label Baklanans. In addition, it is necessary to visit the shores of the Bay of Tagus, located yet north, opposite the island of Fernandina. From here, you can climb Darwin Lake, from the shores of which the magnificent panorama of the green marine lagoon opens, as well as Darwin and Wolf volcanoes. In addition, this place also probably will like the lovers of watching birds, because in the vicinity there are quite often earthwinds, crossbars and Galapagos Knuki.

Nourishing plankton transparent turquoise waters nearby western coast Isaolated Islands in large quantities attract marine mammals. Most often here you can observe humpback whales and aphalin, but from time to time there are many other, no less remarkable species.

At the end of the Travel on the island, you can get no less awesome impressions of swimming with Maritime Iguanas in the area of \u200b\u200bCape Vicente-Roca, where they graze themselves through water on the endless fields of seaweed.

Fernandina Island (Narboro)

Due to their remoteness from the rest of the islands, Fernandina, located on western outskirts The archipelago is very rarely included in the general tourist routes, although completely undeservedly. Despite the location on the far border of the archipelago, this island, rising to 1400 meters above sea level, with a stunning calder extending in a width of almost 6.5 kilometers, is no less entertaining and coloring than everyone else. In addition, this island is a place of concentration of amazing animals that have become real Galapagos symbols.

Fernandina (along with Isabelo) is one of single Islands On the archipelago, where the long-awaited offspring of Galapagos penguins and non-flying eggplanes appears. The best place in this regard is a rocky shore in the area of \u200b\u200bCape Espinosis, located on the northeast coast of the island. In addition, along the trail lying through the unusually spectacular fields flooded by the streams of frozen lava (covered in so deep cracks that short-term dexterity and maneuverability are required in the way), you can visit the whole colony of sea iguan, the number of which is dimensively measured by hundreds of individuals. This colony is mostly remarkable by the fact that it is considered the most numerous in the world.

Tower Island (Genoves)

Tower, one of the most flat islands of the archipelago, is quite removed from the center and is located almost on the northernmost outskirts of the archipelago. First of all, the island is famous for both a real ornithological paradise. The best place, on a magnificent background of which can observe thousands of seabirds, is considered to be the bay of Darwin, formed after the destruction and partial immersion under the water crater of the largest volcano on the island.

Looking aside, from the sandy beach you can go on a path, at the edges all the shank of the salt bushes and mangroves, where they arrange their nests of Bluebean and Redu-Holy Olushi, magnificent frigates and red-cooled phaetons. Here you can meet unique representatives of the local feathered world, including Galapagos gorgers, strict, large cactus and large earthworms, as well as marsh owls (which are representatives of a unique endemic subspecies). On the shores of the island, as, however, and everywhere, you can observe the omnipresent sea lions, and at times even the difficult sea cats. During diving in the water area of \u200b\u200bthe island, even hammers sharks are occasionally.

The observation platform of the "Prince Philippie" stage, located east of the bay of Darwin, is great for departure in swimming in Pangáh (small motor boats), as well as observations of the inconspicuous number of various seabirds. On the cliffs along the edges of the winding pathway from the stony steps leading to the site, they screw their nests of the Blue and Bluebell Olushi, and on the trees nearby - frigates and a huge amount of red-legged Olush. At the end of the way, there is a field covered by the streams of frozen lava, the Galapagos kachrises are circling with huge flocks (and, in contrast to the rest of the relatives around the world, they can be observed not only after the onset of twilight, but during the day). In addition, there are quite large chances to meet representatives of the rare local subspecies of marsh owls.
Travel

Ballet or San Cristobal island can be reached by plane from Quito or Guayaquil airports located in the continental part of Ecuador. Some cruise tours depart from the shores of Baltic (Pier is a 5-minute drive from the local airport). In addition, cruise ships are departed from Puerto Aior, the main tourist Center The archipelago located on the island of Santa Cruz (which can be reached by ferry in 10 minutes or in 45 minutes by bus). On the scale of the archipelago, this is a rather large and modern settlement, where for convenience local residents And tourists have a bank with ATM, taxi, cafe, cinema and a wide range of accommodation options in numerous local hotels.

The most convenient and economical way to study the Galapagos archipelago is a cruise on a ship or a boat with a settlement on board. When choosing such a route, each night is to sail to the next stop, and in the afternoon there are several landings (this is only a general scheme, options here are unlimited). For two weeks, such a cruise can be visited by most of the most curious places on the archipelago (including the most remote islands).

During most cruises, landing on the shore are held twice a day, which means that in 10 days of such a journey you can commit 20 extortations, 10 - 20 times to sneak in local waters and pay several times on the motor pangs, having visited ten different islands of the archipelago. In order to avoid crowders with other groups of tourists, as well as to catch the peak of animal activity, you need to try to disembark as soon as possible. During excursions in all places of stops tourist groups Must accompany a qualified guide zoologist.

Alternatively, you can stay on one of the islands of the archipelago and make daily excursions. Various accommodation options for tourists are presented in hotels on the Islands of Santa Cruz, San Cristobal, Florean and Isabel. Several travel agencies on the islands offer one-day excursions with visiting various places of the archipelago.

Tourist season

Whatever goes to the Galapagos Islands, the trip will probably be to extremely successful, regardless of the season, since each time of the year has its undoubted advantages and pleasant bonuses.

The hot and wet season with a small amount of precipitation (passing time tropical rains) continues from December to May (the most hot and wet months are traditionally Mart and April). At this time, the water of the surrounding archipelago seas is usually more calm and transparent (excellent visibility under water is observed at this time at a depth of 20 - 25 meters), so this time is considered to be the best for diving and scuba diving (water temperature during the season in the season The average is about 26 seconds).

The cooler, dry season with rather strong winds (from time to time intermitted with small frost and fog) continues from June to November. At this time, the water temperature in the sea is reduced to 19 s, and visibility can be considered satisfactory only at a depth of 10 - 15 meters). At this time, the highest waves are also observed in the archipelago area, which may make it difficult to disembark into individual islands.

Location: Ecuador
Square: 8010 km²
Coordinates: 0 ° 30 "52.8" S 91 ° 02 "05.2" W

Almost 1,000 kilometers from the Republic of Ecuador, located in the north-west of the South American continent, are unique in its kind Galapagos Islands.

If we speak dry scientific language, then Galapagossa is 13 volcanic islands, which appeared as a result of almost incessant eruptions of volcanoes at the bottom of the sea. In addition, the archipelago includes 6 islands of non-tank origin and 107 rocks, and small sushi islets, which were scamped by the ocean waves.

According to scientists who cannot be considered with reliable data, the very first island of the famous Galapagossov's world has arisen about "total" 7 million years ago. This suggests that the Galapagos archipelago, according to certain standards, can be called relatively young. By the way, two islands, wearing beautiful female names Fernandine and Isabel, are still at the formation stage, and what they will be in a few hundred years, predict is quite difficult. The thing is that volcanoes are constantly being erupted at the depths of them, and therefore these islands are constantly growing.

The total area of \u200b\u200bGalapaghodes today is almost 8,000 square kilometers, they are considered an integral part of the state Ecuador. About 30,000 indigenous people live on the islands, although, to calculate the exact number of residents of Galapagossos - pretty difficult: most of them are almost constantly in the sea or lead the life of hermites on one of the rocks of the islands. It is impossible not to mention that the Galapagos Islands received its name in honor of the water turtle, more precisely, water turtles: Galápagos is a Spanish word in a plural, literally translates into Russian as water turtles. On this, the data that will be interested in scientists, geologists, historians and volcanologists almost end.

In search of God

Next, the Galapagossa cannot be described using only scientific terms and data that, by and large, little will be very interested in a simple manual or tourist who decided to go to one of the most amazing places on our planet. To the place where everyone's well-known scientist Darwin "found God".

More precisely, it is in the Galapagos Islands, Darwin "opened" evolution on our planet. I would like to immediately make a reservation that only animals of the teachings of Charles Darwin are adhered to such a point of view. Almost all historians are united in the opinion that the famous theory of evolution was formed much later. And Mr. Darwin only used the knowledge gained in Galapagossa in his work.

"All now I am very easy to explain! What I saw in the Galapagos Islands, namely animals and plants, is no longer found anywhere on the planet. However, many species have some similarities with those species that live in other corners of the world. This means that evolution still occurs everywhere, practically, ordered and equally, "said Charles Darwin in his notes. Pretty strange theory, isn't it? Yes, it is precisely such conclusions for most of them and constitute the theory of evolution, to which at the present moment the overwhelming number of scientists belongs to skeptically.

History of Galapagos Islands

To say that the history of the Galapagos Islands is not much remarkable, naturally, with the exception of its origin, it would be too arrogant. Galapagossa was open to the Spanish priest, in the spring of 1535. There is nothing surprising in this, in those times, when Spain experienced a period of his heyday, the state often cutting various research expeditions, which were led by the servants of the church, because they should have had an unenlished peoples to carry the Word of God.

Until 1832. unique islands They belonged to Spain and then were attached to Ecuador. Until 1936, the islands that were at a significant distance from the mainland served as a place where the convicts were serving, for the most part, from various diseases or simply became savings. In 1936, the authorities of Ecuador, understanding which wealth is located very close to them, declared Galapagossi by the National Park, where the rich Flora and Fauna was under vigilant protection. 1978 For the Galapagos Islands, I became a landmark, the UNESCO organization drew attention to them, recognizing them by the World Heritage. This is such a short and, mostly, the guides of numerous tourists tell the inconspicuous history.

Flora and Fauna Galapagos Islands

Alas, in one article describe the wealth of flora and fauna, which can be found on the galapagossas, is almost impossible. It is worth only to make a reservation that the overwhelming part of animals and plants that can be found on the volcanic islands in coastal zone And on the sheer cliffs, are endemics. It speaks only one thing, they are no longer found anywhere on our planet. Naturally, the symbol of the Galapagos Islands is the sea iguana, which is shown in almost all television shows dedicated to this unique archipelago. She, the only one of Iguan, which spends most of his time in the sea depths. At the same time, being cold-blooded, it is forced to bask in the sun. She with great pleasure does it on coastal cliffs: no waves are scared, because the chain claws help her to hold and take sunny baths even on very slippery stones.

Describing the endemics of the island should not forget about Galapagos cormorants, cauldresses, holots and sea lions: all these animals, like many others, live only on Galapagossa. Numerous attempts to scientists spread them on other isolated islands, in which the conditions were practically identical, ended in failure.

Naturally, to forget about the Galapagos Turtle, or, as scientists - an elephant called it, it would be an unforgivable mistake. After all, it is thanks to her a huge archipelago and got its name. Alas, at the moment it is on the verge of complete disappearance and scientists do everything possible to preserve this rare and, at the same time, the interesting type of turtles, the weight of which exceeds 400 kilograms, and the length is approximately 2 meters. In nature, these turtles that gave the name of a row of volcanic islands, live approximately 100 years. The exact age of their age cannot be calculated. Not so long ago in one of the zoos died galapagos Turtlewhose age was accurately recorded - 170 years. This endemic was used to be very widespread in Galapagussians, but enterprising Spaniards, having learned the features of these turtles that could easily live in a stuff for several months without water and food, decided to make it ... live canned food. They were threw up with hundreds, and if necessary, they were killed and cooked, from the eye disappearing in our days, the skuffing soup.

Modern Galapagossa

The most popular island tourists currently include: Espanyola, Fernandina, Rabida, Pinson and Ballet. As mentioned above, Galapagossa is a national reserve, therefore, in order to visit this place, which is impossible to describe otherwise, as high-footer epitats, will have to stay in Ecuador. There are many hotels: from economy class, up to five star hotels. Alone to get to the Galapagos Islands, alas, will not work, except that the traveler decides to risk his life and overcome the distance of 1,000 kilometers across the Ocean, which is famous for its challenge nature and the presence of a large number of sharks in it, who wanted to start warm-blooded meat. Therefore, in order to get to the place where all the most amazing, fantastic and "extraterrestrial", will have to rent a yacht that can take the traveler to Galapagossov for 5-9 days. It all depends on the number of passengers and, of course, from the tourist wallet. The yachts provide for a wide variety of entertainment during a cruise, diving from the Galapagos islands, which are recognized as one of the seven wonders of the underwater world, fishing in the ocean and much more.

Cruise prices to Galapagossov vary from 100 to 1000 dollars per day. But such amounts do not at all scare away tourists. On the contrary, buy a ticket and enjoy the beauties of Galapagossov, with our own eyes to see the underwater world and its inhabitants - a big problem. Only a pre-book ticket will be given confidence that the traveler will be able to see with his own eyes with almost the fact that in 1835 he saw the great scientist and researcher Charles Darwin. By the way, a long way, despite entertainment, still tires. Permanent pitching that brings to dehydration of a person suffering from marine disease, life on the ship is strictly in schedule: breakfast - dinner - dinner, diving, fishing - a little bit bored, but waiting for something great and hidden from the eyes of millions of people who will be available, As soon as the yacht reaches Galapagossos, there are these small inconveniences.

What connects the Great Charles Darwin with a group lost Islands at Pacific Ocean? Why did Galapagos Islands so famous that they are special? The case in unique flora and fauna, which are endemics - a local, separate ecosystem, where different species evolved, without mixing with others. Darwin's stay on these islands was the impetus to its development of an evolutionary theory about the origin of the species - a natural selection that became a great discovery. Let's see where the Galapagos Islands are located on the world map.

Location and climate of Galapagosov

Galapagos Islands on the map are located in the Pacific Ocean, in the north-west of South America, and territorially owned by the Republic of Ecuador. The mainland is separated by 972 km. The volcanic archipelago consists of 19 islands, this 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 of tectonic plates. The proximity to the equator and the local cold flow of Humballadta provided the archipelago a comfortable two-seasone with a stable air temperature + 23 ° C: from December to May - warm and wet season, from June to November - cool and dry.

Summer on galapaghos marks the temperature of air and water + 20 ° C, while pretty strong winds blow. The cold flow turns out the air temperature, but it satages coastal water with nutritional organisms that attract penguins, birds and shoals of fish. The coast becomes a densely populated, what to tourists, and Albatrosse fly to Espanyol Island.

In the winter months, warm tropical rains often go. Moisture, evaporating from the ground, creates a veil of fog, but at air and water temperature + 25 ° C does not cause discomfort. Autumn - time of divers, since the underwater world becomes diverse and more beautiful. In winter, the beautiful Bluebells of Olushi arrive here. Spring on the galapaghos is wonderful - the numerous endemics (plants that can be found only here) are blooming, and on the beaches there is a sacrament of laying eggs by Galapagoski turtles.

Opening and history of Galapagos

As part of the archipelago 13 basic, inhabited islands, 6 small and scattering small rocks and protrusions above the surface of the water. Galapagos Islands were opened in the spring of 1535 by the Spaniard by the Spaniard Thomas de Bergang, who became the first European, who had vested on the volcanic land of one of the islands. His ship accidentally deviated from the course, following the Panama in Peru, and stumbled upon an unfamiliar archipelago. Before the amazed gaze of travelers, the primitive world inhabited by giant turtles got up in all its glory. By the way, hence the name - Galapagos (PS.), That is, an "ivory turtle".

Historical milestones

Spanish conquistadors settled on the islands, but used them as a shelter for pirates attacked by the court passing by the court until in 1832. "The government was not changed." The archipelago passed into the possession of Ecuador. After 3 years, the expedition of Charles Darwin was landed for him with a companion, naturalist Robert Fitzroy. So began the era of the study of a unique ecosystem.

The archipelago was announced by the National Reserve, but during the Second World War on Biltract Island, the American Airborne Base was located, defeated the Panaman Canal and followed the enemy's submarines in this region. From the famous researchers in Galapaghos also visited Tour Heyerdal, who was looking for the traces of the Inca civilization and found the following.

History of the archipelago in dates:

• in 1959, the International Foundation was created in Brussels. Darwin, which in every 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 conducted a huge work on the removal of "non-rigging" flora and fauna in order to preserve the purity of endemics;
• in 1973 - the Government of Ecuador founded the province on the islands;
• in 1978, UNESCO introduced an archipelago to the World Heritage List;
• in 1985 - he became a biosphere reserve;
• in 1986 - coastal waters found the status of the environmental zone. The area of \u200b\u200bthe ocean coastal water area is 70 thousand km², it is the second largest after.

Islated description and attractions

First navigation map. The archipelago was drawn up in 1684 by the Pirate of Emmozom Culley. He gave the names of the islands on the names of his familiar flibusers and the patronage of the English nobles. You can visit 13 islands from 19, but only three of them have infrastructure and are built up with hotels and bungalows - Santa Cruz, Isabel and San Cristobal. Most (90%!), On the contrary, retained their primary intactness and are given to the possession of animals, reptiles and birds.

The archipelago is located almost at the equator, and the area is very poor: the joint of three tectonic plates regularly generates the eruption of numerous volcanoes. But here they found the house rarest representatives of the animal and vegetable world. White, black and red virgin beaches are beautiful, in the relict forests, paradise birds sing, in transparent turquoise water, the dolphins, sea seals, turtles and even penguins are frolic. On the Galapaghos is always summer.

Isabel - the biggest island

Area 4640 m², named after Queen Isabella, who sponsored the expedition of Christopher Columbus. The island has the shape of a seabed and exist with six volcanoes that make up its surface. The highest - Wolfe (1707 m), the last eruption was recorded in 1982. In its crater is pretty big Lake With islands. Another volcano Isabeli - Sierra Negra, his crater is the second diameter in the world (10 km). The third rating - Chico, in 2005 he was powerful, and today its surroundings resemble the lunar landscape - tunnels, rivers and outgrowths from Lava. There is a on the island salt Lake Balthazar, he was chosen by flocks of red flamingos, and there locality - Puerto Villamil.

Isabel Island is interested in his story, and his main attraction - Wesch's wall. In the post-war years, it functioned a correctional colony. Prisoners in educational purposes obliged to cut out the blocks from the volcanic rock and to transfer far from the place of production to where they erected a high wall. A hard labor under the scorching sun literally mowed the ranks of the poor thigh, few people survived in such conditions. In memory of them, a rather remote wall of 100 m in length and 8 in height remained. In subsequent years, the prison building was equalized with the Earth, and the wall remained as a reminder of the atrocities of supervisors.

On the Western tip of Isabel there are bays and the beach, interesting sand in black. Coastal waters are literally sissed by the inhabitants, the company's company will gladly make up turtles and sea lions. The island also lives Galapagos Penguins, Baklans, Iguanas, Pelicans, Birds of Olushi. The slopes of volcanoes are settled by reels who know how to use labor tools - cactus needles, savings, land turtles, flamingos and Galapagos dove. But the most remarkable here is the scattering of small adorable lagoon, where paradise birds sing, and the coastal waters are furious by the Fish-hammer, a ray fish, as well as sharks and tales.

Santa Cruz - the most populated

Another name is Indefatigabl. This is the biggest island in the form of an almost even circle (pl. 985 km²), the center of Civilization of Galapagos with the city of Puerto Aior, in which 12 thousand people live. For tourists to Santa Cruz, many entertainment has been prepared:

• beautiful Beach Torguga Bay;
• diving and acquaintance with the marine inhabitants;
• walking on the yacht between the islands and on a boat with a glass bottom;
• flights on the airplane or paraglider;
• observation of gigantic turtles.

On Santa Cruz is, as mentioned above, the research center. Charles Darwin, awarded the International Cosmos 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 gigs are engaged in the continuation of the kind. Among the barns of the cactus empmits - the main attractions of the local flora - chaffs.

Fernandina - Nonarent Volcano

This most western island is essentially a periodically waking volcano called La Cumbre (642 km²). The last two eruptions were in 2005 and 2009, the second turned out to be unusually powerful: hot lava and ashes shot into the sky at 7 kilometer height. The name of the island went from the king Ferdinand II Aragon, who was also the patron of Columbus. In the center of the island - caldera (brand) with a diameter of 6.5 km, formed as a result of the colt collapse. At its bottom, the lake occurs periodically, and then disappearing without a trace. Tourists are not allowed in the surroundings of the caldera due to the danger of the collaps.

Actually, it is almost nothing to look at it, with the exception of mangrove thickets on the coast of the ocean, and the largest population of the sea iguan in the town of Punta Espinosis. The rest of the landscape is gray, frozen lava mass. In the urban bay there is a coral reef with a rich underwater life, and Penguins live in Elizabeth in Bay. They divide him with pelicans, hiding caught fish in the caves.

Biltra - Iguan Island

During the Second World War, the US Army Navy was here, and now there is an international airport that connects the archipelago with the mainland. Flights are made daily by TAME airline. Island is home to Iguan. For the sake of the experiment in the 1930s, biologists moved 70 individuals to the nearby Island of Simor Norte, but the remaining in Balter Iguana during the war unexpectedly died. In the post-war years in the center of them. Darwin restored the population and new generations again settled Balter.

Bartolome - Pirates refuge

Tiny, but the adorable island (only 1.2 km²) has the shape of the horseshoe. From the highest point to the West, the lava section stretched, which stores the source fresh waterwhich is almost not on the whole archipelago. In the cave of pirates lived flibastries, which were passing trials. There is a stunning rock Pinnacle, from the top of which the wonderful views of the beach of coffee are opening. Her founding is inhabited by penguins, sea lions and turtles. The tales float over the underwater tunnel connecting the sea and two bays.

An interesting sights of other islands can be found in the table:

Island	What to admire and engage
Santa Maria	Admire the devil's crown. This is the edge of the crater of a volcano sticking out of the water, resembling the crowns. See the ancient barrels found in the post office bay, they played the role of mailboxes in distant times. Swim in the company of reef sharks in the Bay of Shark (Punto-Korotran Plan)
Espanyola.	To admire the most numerous colon of wavy albatrosov, which can be seen only on the rocks of Espanyola and more in the world. Communicate with multicolored Iguanas at Cape Suarez. Nature on the snow-white sand Gardner Bay, which resembles a soft and smallest flour, and see near sea lions
San Cristobal	Walking along the capital of the archipelago Puerto-Baroiso-Moreno. The second airport is located here. Watch the frigates from the Fregatber Hill hill, as well as for the beautiful Oloshi from Cape Pitt. Visit almost the only one freshwater lake Al-Gunko Archipelago and photographing his inhabitants. On the way to the abandoned sugar plant, see 6 zones of the Galapagos Flora - from desert vegetation to Pampass
Sana-Fe.	Walking among huge pear cacti up to 10 meters high. See unique goats, which in the absence of fresh water evolved and drink salty
Santiago (San Salvador)	In James's Bay, see sea cats, as well as Lviv, Iguan, Reef Shark and Galapagos Black and Yellow Corals
Rabida	Hiding on the dark red sand of the beach. Its color is due to the high content of iron oxide and volcanic origin. Want among unique bunchwood trees
Genoves	See extensive colonies of a variety of birds
Plaza.	Enjoy the wealth of flora and fauna

Threat for Galapagos species

However, whatever an isolated archipelago for foreign representatives of flora and fauna, there is one enemy from Galapagos. It was he who broke the purity of endemics and threatened with many rarest species, and some of them disappeared at all from the face of the earth. Newly arriving "conquerors" in the old centuries produced on the islands of domestic animals, which focused on the protected lands. Cats ruined the masonry of eggs, pigs were digging the soil, damaging the root system of plants, and the goats finished them from above, combining the foliage. Defenseless animals and plants were unarmed in front of barbarism. But in the last century, scientists scored alarm and conducted a massive stripping of nature from strangers.

Animal world Galapagos

The privacy of the Galapagos Islands influenced the variety and purity of the species that are preserved here, including the works of scientists. Many inhabitants are found only on the archipelago: approximately 60 species of birds, many fish and marine inhabitants.

"The country of nonpougly animals" is so appropriate to call Galapagos. On any island, everywhere can be stumbled upon sleeping colored Iguanu, or on flirting frigates, or on swimming penguins, as well as on slow turtles. Animals are friendly and trusting, because they have no enemies, because predators are not found. The world of the archipelago is surprising, where those who seem to be at all the place here, - penguins and seals.

Penguins Gumbaldt

So that the Galapagos Penguins could survive in the climate unusual for them - too warm and dry, they evolved: local - very small sizes, height is only 50 cm. The plumage is less dense than the Arctic female, and subcutaneous fat less. To reduce body temperature, Galapagos Penguin can often breathe by opening the mouth, just like a dog.

They lead a nightlife, and during the day, in the world, are sitting in the water. Mostly, Penguins were chosen by the Western Islands, there because of cold currents the temperature in the sea is lower, and multiply on Isabel and Fernandine.

Swimming among penguins on galapaghos:

Land elephant turtles

Galapagos turtles before the ancient that they are jokingly called the smokers of the universe. These are the largest turtles of the planet, the weight of other individuals reaches six centners, and the length is up to two meters. Gigaters are long-livers, the majority of the mortar of the earth is more than a century, but there were cases when caught turtles lived 170 years at a minimum.

These vertebrates inhabit the 7 islands of the archipelago, and their appearance differs on the islands with different climates. So, in those places where a higher humidity on the elevations, the turtle shell has the form of the dome, the neck is short, and the animal itself is large. On the plain islands with a dry climate, the shell bought the shape of the saddle, the neck is long, and the sizes of the turtle bed. In this example, Darwin's theory about the evolution of species is understood.

According to Darwin, the evolution of all living things is based on three basic facts: the offspring is born more than it can survive; Representatives different species have different features to adapt to the proposed conditions; These signs are inherited. Thus, competition is formed inside the species and can only survive the strongest, transmitting severe genes to the offspring. So the principle of natural selection works.

Elephant turtles were almost extinct in the 20th century, because their massively exterminated for meat and shell. Of the 250 thousand of these reptiles in the 70s, only 3000 remained. But scientists tightly engaged in the resurrection of the population and developed a program for growing relict shells on special farms. Passionate individuals are then released. In the XXI century, the number of galapagos turtles is 19 thousand, and this species is indicated as vulnerable.

Sea iguana

A unique animal that dwells only on these islands. The only sea lizard on the planet, which due to the lack of ground food evolved and is now powered by algae. Iguanas slide into the water in those places where she warmed up enough, and plunge mainly in shallow water. It is amazing that they can detain their breathing for an hour, at this time oxygen stored before dipping, only in vital organs. Coming out of the water, the lizard hurries to warm up in the sun, pressing to hot stones, otherwise it can die from supercooling. Her powerful claws form a strong coupling even with a smooth stone.

Ground iguana

Beautiful creation that transfers with all the colors of the rainbow. Feeds with juicy fruits and fruit. Iguana can sit under the cactus clock and wait for the fruit. He eats him along with spines. The needle-stuck needle reptiles pulls out a paw or rotating the tongue, also a paw, she knows how to remove spines from their body. Not all iguana shimmer in different colors, you can find a lot of gray ground iguan on the islands. These are hybrids - the offspring of the marine and terrestrial iguan. Water representatives of the species often attack land females and mate with them. Well, installed whether hybrids are capable of continuing the genus.

This is an amazing bird. The males in the marriage inflated a huge bright red bag hanging on the larynx, to attract the female. The name was obtained due to the tendency to accompany the ship - frigates - in the hope of treating. Birds cannot fall on the water, because, wetting, they will not be able to take off, so they always hover over the sea. Before you start attracting the female, the male is a cozy nest.

Bluebean Olushi

A beautiful and unusual bird of fairly large sizes - females reach a height of 80 cm. Its appearance justifies the name, since the paws with swimming pools of blue. The brightness of the color is crucial when choosing a male female for mating. Olushi masonry make every 8 months, 2-3 eggs. Parents take turns sit on the nest for 40 days, and hatched chicks remain in it over three months.

Olushi feed on sea fish, they are beautiful divers - the bird dives into the water from height and goes vertically down to a depth of 25 m. It is interesting that the fish capture process takes place exclusively on the way back to the surface when pop-up. Olushi is prone to courage, the bird is not afraid of anyone, even a person, and fiercely protects the nest. Olush is not an endemic of Galapagosov, Islands - only the preferences of these feathers, and you can see them in Mexico, and in the California Gulf, and on the islands.

Clothing of Olusha per girlfriend:

Darwinovy \u200b\u200bVyurki

At first glance, the usual little bird. But its importance in the evolution is invaluable. On the example of the reels, the great scientist brought his theory of natural selection. If briefly: the subspecies of the Darwin Reel is an endemic of Galapagosov, millions of years ago his ancestors listed in the archipelago to the backway. Initially, one type of reels lived on all the islands, but under the influence of the external environment was forced to evolve. On different islands, their climate and vegetation, so the birds differ everywhere with the form of beak. Some it has a fat and wide, others have a narrow and sharp, that is, the beaks have changed in a different mining of food.

In 1858 he saw the light of the monumental work of Darwin "The origin of species", which the Church betrayed Anathema. From the point of view of religion, the world created the Creator, respectively, he also created 13 different reels for 13 Galapagos Islands.

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

• marine green turtle - Beautiful reptile, famous for always returning to the place of birth for thousands of miles to postpone eggs;
• sea lions and seals - both species belong to the family of eared seal;
• galapagos Bablan - Land Bird, who has lost opportunities to fly. Feeding fish no further as 100 meters from the coast, and enters the water, turning all the body, as if driving into it;
• kanyuk - Falcon about 55 cm long, is the only predator of the archipelago. Powered by lizards and small iguanami;
• white (mask) Olusha - has a clear rim and black edging of the wings around the beak. Always postponed two eggs, but only one chick survives, the strongest, and weak parents peel out of the nest (natural selection in action!).

Galapagos - a unique place, and scientists apply a lot of strength to preserve populations in "clean" form. It is difficult for the archipelago, expensive and long to get, but all efforts are worth it to be close to see incredible animals and birds. They lived long before people appeared on the planet as a view.

Exotic tourism is becoming increasingly popular among lovers unusual travel. And one of the most unique places On Earth, where you can relax from the intense pace of modern life, are the Galapagos Islands with their original nature and animal world.

Galapagos Islands on the World Map

Those who go through traditional tourist routes -, etc. - do not always quickly answer the question, in which the corner of the land are the Galapagos.

Where are and who belongs to?

Galapagos Islands have several names, including Isle turtle and color archipelago.

The first name comes from the word GalapaGo - in Spanish they were denoted by water turtles of large sizes, which were in abundance here.

Islands belong to the state Ecuador and accommodate 972 km in the west direction from coastline of this country. If there is a question, in which Ocean are the islands, you can safely answer that they are washed by the quiet ocean and belong to its eastern equatorial part.

Islands Square is 8010 km², and the number of inhabitants exceeds 25 thousand people. Galapagos are highlighted in a separate province of Ecuador. The highest islands Considered:

• San Cristobal;
• Isabel (the height of volcanic peaks exceeds 1700 m);
• San Salvador (maximum height volcanic vertex - 518 m);
• Santa Cruz;
• Fernandina (The corresponding indicator is 1134 m).

The capital of the archipelago - town Puerto Bariso-Moreno, the largest settlement on the island of San Cristobal. but most of Galapaghodsev lives on Santa Cruz, where Puerto Ayor is the center of tourist activity. On Islands and Fernandina still show activity, the rest are considered extinct.

Going on a trip airwayRead in the location of the places in the plane to choose the most convenient way.

Climate

Although Galapagos are located in the field of equator, the climate is cool here is quite cool due to availability ice ocean flows. The average annual temperature rarely exceeds 23-24 ° C, and the water temperature is approximately 20 ° C throughout the year. From the temperature range ranges in the range of + 19-26 ° C, and from software - + 22-31 ° C.

A small amount of precipitation falls here - no more than 150 mm annually, and mainly from December to. it rain seasonAnd the dry season begins in and ends in.

How to get from Moscow?

From the capital of Russia to get to the Galapagos faster and easier, buying a ticket to Aeroflot, Klm, Luftansa airlines, British Airways, Air France and other to Kitto with mandatory transplant At one of the airports or. There is no direct message with Ecuador from the Russian capital: Tourists are available transit through Madrid, Miami, and other megalopolises.

Citizens of Russia can cross the Ecuador's border without a visa and to be in its territory up to 90 days without appropriate visa designBut for flight to the US, the visa will need.

Flights arrive at the most important Ecuador International Airport "Mariskal Sucre". From Quito, you can get to the archipelago, using the services of local airlines Ikar and Tame.

Final destination - san Cristobal Island (Remember that there are not every day airplanes fly here) and Biltra Island not far from Santa Cruz Island. Flight here from Quito will take 3 hours from another local big City Guayaquil, if after the trip from you decide to travel in Ecuador, - 1.5 hours.

From Baltra Airport to the location of the ferry to the nearby Santa Cruz, the Canal Itabac can have buses, travel in which will you cost anything. Crossing on the island takes no more than 5 minutes. For Santa Cruz, you will be given two options to get to Puerto Ayor: go to the bus (ticket costs 1.8 dollars, the duration of the trip is over 60 minutes) or take a taxi and comfortably get to the city in 40 minutes at a price of $ 18.

From Puerto Ayor regularly sent cruise liners , which are the only way to move within the archipelago.

Collection at the airport after arrival in the country is 100 dollars. It is forbidden to import:

1. Animals;
2. Insects;
3. Flowers;
4. Fruit.

Uninhabited island education

Of the numerous number of islands, most of them are desert, but organized excursions allow you to visit these unusual corners.

Ballet

The island of Balttors originated thanks to the rise of lava formations and is almost in the very center of the archipelago. Here is very arid climateSo here it is most consistent with such representatives of flora such as burr, indentation and a low shrub, as well as Lizards of Iguana.

On the island is completely absent tourist infrastructure And no hotels: this is an exclusively "gate" on Galapagos due to availability airport.

Bartolome

The island was named after Lieutenant British Navy David Bartholomew. Although there are no residents in general, this little island is extremely popular among travelers. He is a fascinated volcano and impressive visitors with unusual volcanic formations, the most famous of which is a hill of a tuff in the form of a classic cone, known as Pinnacle Rock.

Here you can take a closer look at huge turtles and sea lions, as well as the traditional penguins of the archipelago. but you should not swim: There are quite a few reef sharks around floats.

Wulf

This island borrowed its name from geologist of German origin. Wolf. Its area is a little more than 1 km², and is the island over the sea level by 253 m. If you love feathery, be sure to visit here: only here you are awaiting a rigous earthy reel, resembling a vampire: the blood of Olush is served for him.

Among the representatives of the fauna islands - sea iguana and seams, frigates, local seagulls, mask and red-legged Olushi.

The ocean is replete with playful dolphins and whales, often cases of sharks attack.

Darwin

The island is impressive with its miniature area of \u200b\u200b1.1 km² at a height above sea level 168 m. Local animal world which may admire visiting, typical for Galapagos. Sea lions, turtles and yurt lizards, Krasnonogiy Olushi live here, and their exotic fellow names. Whales are floating near the coast and frigates fly.

Henoves

He borrowed its name from Italian, from where it was from Columbus. The island is raised above sea level at 76 m at 14 km² area. Once in this place was huge craterI went under the water: his top and formed the island.

Island is also known as "avian" Thanks to the huge number of nesting feathered, including frigates and local chaps, flying to the hunt at night. Tourists have deserved tourists Forest Massif Palo-Santo and the panoramic platform of the "Steps of Prince Philip". Henoves also lives:

1. Representatives of the family kachrkovy;
2. Redu-eaten Olushi;
3. Phaetons;
4. Pigeons.

The beach is also important to pass the crags, smoky seagulls, Darwinov's reels.

On the island allowed exclusively court, the number of passengers in which less than 40 people who are moored in Darwin Bay. It is in this place that it is well to watch most of the flying inhabitants of the island and climb along the path to the rock, where they come with their nests.

Marchena

The island, the area of \u200b\u200bwhich exceeds 100 km², towers above sea level by 343 m. Practically single His inhabitants are sea lions, lizards and local cats. Here are excellent diving opportunities, but, as a rule, tourists see the island from afar, sailing past the neighboring islands.

Pint

The sonor name he borrowed from one of sea courts Christopher Columbus. He is completely uninhabited, with the exception of sea iguan and cattle, reseller and local chaps.

Also lived here the rarest variety of sea turtles, which are fully extinct since 2012.

Pinson

Here on the square of 18 km² absent Any attractions, however, admire the life of the sea iguan, kanyukov and lions, ancient turtles, and also occasionally admire the games of dolphins, it is quite possible. The name of the island comes on behalf of the brothers who headed the crews of the ninya ships and Pinta, equipped with Columbus.

Rabida

He is known for mine burgundy shade of soilexplaining the significant concentration of iron in the covering of its lava flows. At this small island education area of \u200b\u200b4.9 km², Pelicans live, 9 varieties of chapters, Bluewood Olushi.

Rare brown pelicans remove chicks directly in a low-spirited sowing shrub growing on the beach: it's hardly single place On the planet, where they let people close.

Rabid coast - an excellent choice for diving, but remember about sharp shark teeth. "Raisin" Islands - Lagoon with water of high salinity, which was chosen by beautiful pink flamingos. Trail tourists can climb from the beach to the rocky peak of a reddish tint and admire the view of the ocean.

Santa Fe.

This is one of the oldest island formations of the archipelago with volcanic formations whose age exceeds 4 million years. Be sure to stroll through the most extensive on the Galapaghos forest from cacti View of Opuntia.

Do not be afraid if you meet small dinosaur: These are just the iguana of two species - rice rats and land iguana Barrington, which in other places are extremely rare. Falls, Galapagos Seagulls nest on the rocks, fluttering the petrels, watch which very interesting.

Santiago

It is formed by two as if intersecting volcanoes and has become a permanent maggot for maritime cats and turtles of all kinds. Flamingo, Darwin Finnish and Galapagos Hawks are worth noting Flamingo. Santiago produces a special impression because lava flowsEstablished on the ground - the oldest one has more than 750 thousand years.

The most famous landmark of the island - Puerto Egas In the southern part of the Gulf James. Here you can go on an excursion to the old salt crater, repeating the path of the trolleys from its top to the coast. Nearby ruins of buildings and remnants of mechanisms for salt mining are preserved. In the depths of the crater there is a tiny salt Lake. From the top offers a beautiful view of orange lava fields, crouched grass and low shrubs.

Also deserve attention to:

• Grotto Marine Kotikovfloating in majestic lava pools having a rounded form;
• Bay BucanIers., once chosen by flibous. Here, the majestic impression is produced sand beaches Scarlet shade and steep rocky vertices from tuff.

Plaza Sur

Plaza Sur - one of twin Islandsformed by geological elevation and tilted in the northern direction. Its area is approximately 0.13 km², and the only inhabitants are cacti of the type of Opuntia and the plant seasuvium, the leaves of which become brightly fiery in the dry season. This gives the most unusual look. Also, the land lizards of iguana are often sining.

Seymour-North

A small island is a slightly more than 1 km² will be interesting to all lovers of ornithology.

The tourist trail has a length of approximately 2 km and passes through the center of the island, bonding the coast.

During the excursion, natural whimsical corridors from natural lava can be seen, volcanic education, to meet the grievous iguan, admire the rookers of the budget marine seals and watch the blue-eyed flashes and unusual local seagulls.

Fernandina

This is the third island of this archipelago with an area of \u200b\u200b642 km². One of the most interesting local attractions - lava fieldsresulting from the activities of the volcano. From the plants, only lava cacti and mangalls were taken here, and from the inhabitants you will seem to see the sea iguan, lions and local penguins.

Espanyola.

On the island with an impressive area of \u200b\u200b60 km² you can seem to see mashing Albatros - Shore, cut by cliffs, is ideal for take-off giant birds from the vertices. The bird's hoody mock often sits right on the shoulders of tourists in search of food.

Bay Gardner and Punta Suarez. - Two local attractions - get acquainted with you closer with the sea iguanami and lions, tropical colorful fish and lavam lizards of all shades of the rainbow.

In addition to volcanoes, nature created another amazing phenomenon - waterfalls. There are waterfalls, stunning eyes their huge flow of water and scales. It is about such waterfalls in question.

Galapagos Islands - unusual world , straight different from more civilized places of recreation. A trip here will definitely remember you for a long time.

No matter how surprising it sounds, but there are no indigenous people in the Galapagos Islands. They live here mainly Ecuadorian metises - descendants of Spanish colonists and the South American Indians who arrived here from the mainland in the second half of the last century.

And even earlier, English pirates were well felt here in the breaks between the robbers - the islands for a long time after the discovery remained unoccupied: they were too far they were located from the continent (the distance between the archipelago and Ecuador and Ecuador constitutes a hundred kilometers). An important role was also played by the fact that the Galapagos Islands do not have almost no sources of fresh water.

Yes, and now the population is small and does not exceed 30 thousand people who live only on five islands: Balter, Isabelle, San Cristobal and Santa Cruz, which is only 3.3% of the total territory of the archipelago, while the islands are only Partially - in the center or on the coast, near the marins.

Galapagos Islands from thirteen large islands, six - small and hundred seven rocks and worm areas (the total area of \u200b\u200bGalapagos is about 8 thousand km²). There is an archipelago in the Pacific, and is the province of the state Ecuador (located from it 972 km to the west). If you carefully look at the Galapagos Islands on the map (they are from 1 ° 40 's. Sh. Up to 1 ° 36' y. Sh., And from 89 ° 16 'up to 92 ° 01' z. D.), Then you can Related that in their form they resemble a pentagon.

The Galapagos Islands found at the beginning of the XVI century, when the ship of the Panaman Bishop of Thomas de Berborg accidentally deviated from the course. Recently, scientists find out that the South American Indians visited here much earlier, since they found the remains of dishes and other traces of human activity.

Galapagos and volcanic activity

Like almost all archipelagoes formed at a large distance from the continent, Galapagos islands have volcanic origin, because they were formed in the cross-fled region, which dissets the East Pacific Raising.

Along this crack (from the west to the East), volcanoes appeared, and after some time, about 5-10 million years ago, a volcanic plateau was formed on one of the plots, and on it - the Galapagos Islands having a complex configuration, winding , stony shores, and under water - a huge amount of coral reefs.

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

As people here do not live, his eruptions are dangerous only for the flora and fauna. One more active volcano, Wulf, which is located on Isabella Island, erupts less often and is the highest point of the archipelago: its height is 1707 m.

Climate Galapagossa

The climate of the archipelago primarily affects oceanic flows and winds. Despite the fact that the Galapagos Islands are located near the Equator, because of the wake-up of the cold Peruvian flow archipelago, the climate is much more cool here than in other areas of these latitudes: the average annual temperature is about 24 ° C (the hottest months is from December to June). Here, as in other equatorial areas, there are two seasons: rain (from December to April) and dry (from July to October).

Life of the archipelago

Such significant remoteness from civilization could not not affect the wildlife of the archipelago - it is so unique and interesting that it is no longer found in any other place of the world.

That is why in the 80s of the last century, the aqueous space around the islands was announced by the "marine environmental zone" (it should be noted that in its size it is inferior only Barrier Rifa.Located near the coast of Australia), and UNESCO declared a biosphere reserve by the National Park, which is located on the square of almost 700 hectares.

And not in vain, because in the Galapagos Islands there are about sixty bird species, half of which are endemics, in oceanic depths, not only a huge number of the most diverse species of fish live, but there are a lot of nautical lions, cats, acne, rods, dolphins, huge flocks ( About 300 individuals) swim hammers sharks.

Despite its proximity to the equator, here you can see representatives of not only the tropical, but also the Antarctic world of wildlife - Moss is growing near Lian, the parrots fly over the heads of the Galapagos penguins, and the dolphins float next to the seals. Some animals have long become the symbols of the Galapagos Islands.

Penguins from Equator

Galapagos Penguins are the only type of penguin in the world, which feels quite comfortable in the area of \u200b\u200bthe equator. These birds live mainly on Islands Islands and Fernandina, but nest in caves and lava voids.

Since the Galapagos Islands for Penguins have a very hot and dry climate to survive, this amazing birds had to adapt. First of all, it was displayed:

• On their sizes - Galapagos Penguins are considered the most small penguins in the world: the growth of adult bird is 50 cm, and it weighs about 2.5 kg;
• No more than 2 thousand individuals live here here (and the population of them is reduced every year), and therefore these birds are considered the most small view of the family and are even listed in the Red Book;
• In the way of life - the day, when the air temperature reaches its maximum indicators, Galapagos Penguins are sitting in water (avoid it only during a molting, coming before the start of the breeding season), and go to the shore at night when it becomes cool.

Elephant turtles

The Galapagos Turtle lives in the territory of the unique reserve - the largest turtle on Earth, which is considered one of the most long-lived vertebrate animals of the world: in the wild, the Galapagos turtles are able to live more than a hundred years, and in captivity they live even longer.

For example, the oldest famous Turtle Turtle Henriette from the Australian Zoo, recently turned 175 years old (despite the fact that the exact date of the birth of this reptile is unknown, its approximate age was determined using DNA tests). AT this moment Galapagos Islands have twelve out of fifteen subspecies of these reptiles:

1. Smaller 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 in case of danger, to be embedded in vegetation and hide in it. Prefer to live on small islands, where lowlands are dominated and a dry climate;
2. Larger, weighing from 200 to 400 kg (the difference between males and females is not so significant, like small species), have a short neck, a domed mold shell, the length of which is from 120 to 180 cm. Live they prefer to large Islands, in high mountainous areas with a wet climate.

In the previous century, the population of these animals has decreased significantly. The main reason is of course, people, since the Galapagos Turtle is able to live for several months without food and water, the navigators took them with themselves as "alive canned foods." If in the XVI century, their population has numbered 250 thousand individuals, in 1970 - only 3 thousand.

Recently, due to the kids grown in captivity, the number of this type of skulls increased somewhat and approximately estimates is about 19 thousand copies.