Who opened the Galapagos Islands of Portuguese or Spaniards. Green sea turtles

23.09.2019

What connects the Great Charles Darwin with a group lost Islands In the 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 national ReserveBut during the Second World War on the island of Biltract, the American Airborne Base is located, defending 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 list World Heritage;
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

The first navigation map of the archipelago was drawn up in 1684 by the Pirate of Couley Emblem. 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), last eruption Fixed 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 most big Island In the form of an almost even circle (pl. 985 km²), the center of Civilization Galapagos with the city-port of Puerto Aior, in which 12 thousand people live. For tourists to Santa Cruz, many entertainment has been prepared:

beautiful Beach Torgoga 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 there was a military air base of the US Army, and now it is international Airportconnecting 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. Non-fat on the snow-white sand Gardner Bay, who resembles a soft and smallest flour, and see near sea Lviv
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 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 of various 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 - unique placeAnd scientists apply a lot of strength to preserve populations in the "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.

Floreana is an island in the Galapagos Islands in the Pacific Ocean. Also island known under the names of Santa Maria or Charles Island. This is the sixth largest island of the Galapagos archipelago. Its area is about 173 square kilometers.

The island of Florean was named after the first president of Ecuador - Juan José Flores, during the rule of which the Galapagos Islands entered the jurisdiction of Ecuador. And before that, the island was called Santa Maria in honor of one Karavlah Christopher Columbus.

The most important attractions of the island is unusually beautiful pink flamingoWho chose the lagoon at Cape Punta Cormorant. Here you can find the beach where the eggs are laid sea turtle.

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

Tintoröras Island

Tintorrase Island is located next to Puerto Villamil and is a habitat of a wide variety of animal world. Turquoise crystal clear waters and beaches surrounded by mangrove forests are home to various animals, fish and amphibians.

On the way to the island and from its shore, you can see the white sharks, sea iguan, crabs, blue eyles, penguins, reef sharks, sea turtles and sea lions. The island is also one of the few places in the world where the sea iguana successfully reproduces offspring. You can see how they heat on the shore, spitching the salt, which fell with algae and play. The island is beautiful placeSo that it will take a closer look at rare animals and make interesting pictures.

Island Fernandina

Fernandina Galapagos Archipelago island located in the waters of the Pacific Ocean and was named so in honor of the King of Spain, who supported the Great Columbus Larker in his expedition.

In the heart of the island being active volcano La Cumbre, in connection with this, the journey in Fernanddine represents some threat to tourists. There you can see the depression formed as a result of the collapse of the top of the volcano, at the bottom of which is overflowing 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 the endless expanses of the Pacific Ocean.

Flora is not rich, the only thing that can survive in difficult natural conditions Laurel cacti, which are a great set here, and mangrove thickets along the coast.

A pleasant surprise may be a meeting with cormorants, maritime iguanami, and, of course, famous Galapagos Penguins. And on the shore of the ocean, sea lions in the rays of the hot sun, sometimes feeding his loud voice, capable of overlapping a surround noise.

Santa Cruz Island

Santa Cruz - the second largest island of the Galapagos archipelago. It is located the largest city Puerto Ayor Archipelago, here you can find all the benefits of civilization. But the main attractions of the island, of course, are natural objects, which are on the island of many, because almost his entire area is occupied by the Galapagoss National Park.

There is a santa cruce amazing place: Located near Puerto Iior Bay of Tortuga, which is a white white sand beach, for which enough strong waves are characteristic. It is here that surfing lovers can engage in their favorite sports, and swimming lovers can relax at the end of the beach strip, where the surfers are no longer. Here you can explore Mangrove thickets, watch the birds-religious, pelicans, marine iguanami or swim in the company of Shark.

In the south-west, the island is located the Bay of Las Ninfas with calm waters, surrounded by rocks in a tropical greenery, located nearby the Tunnel Beljeee is known for the marine turtles in it, different kinds Fish, skates and sharks. General places worthy detailed description On the island of Santa Cruz, many, but it is better to see them with their own eyes.

Espanyola Island.

Espanyola Island is also known as Hood (Hood). Espanyola Island was named after Spain. The area of \u200b\u200bthe 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 most ancient and most south Island From the whole archipelago. From a geographical point of view, it is the most classic example of a thyroid volcano, which was formed by the only Caldera in the center of the island. Over time, the island shifted from a hot spot, then the wing of the wonder, and erosion began.

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

Galapagos Albatross lives here - a rare species of birds. Cool and impregnable islands cliffs are remarkably suitable for take-off of these large birds. Hooded mock - bronze fearless birds, are also endemics of the island.

In addition, guests of the island can meet here brightly colored marine iguan, chas, lizards, olheshes and chaffins. And large spacious bays attract a large number of nautical lions.

Island of chinese hat

Your name is "Chinese Hat" - the island got not just like that. It is connected with his unusual form, which externally looks very similar to the inverted traditional Panama, adopted to wear in China's provinces. But you can see the "headdress" only if you look at the northern side of the island.

In geological terms, the "Chinese hat" was formed relatively recently, as a result of the activity of numerous existing volcanoes of the archipelago. It is located in the south-east of Santiago Island.

On the beaches of the island you can get a great tan, a lot of pleasures from swimming and engage in snorkeling. From the shore of the "Chinese hats" is perfectly visible by the neighboring about. Santiago, with his beautiful volcanic landscape, and blown in the coastal waters of Galapagos Penguins.

Genoves Island

Genoves Island is the very northeast island of the Galapagos archipelago and covers the area of \u200b\u200bjust 14 square kilometers. There are no permanent residents or tourist buildings on the island, so it is the best place to observe wildlife.

Most of the inhabitants of the island are birds, including entire colonies of chaps, phaetons. Also there are different types of oleshi, owls, frigates and others. In addition, on the island you can find sea lions, sea cats and iguan. Also available diving. Another attraction of the island is the road to the top of the mountain, which is called "the steps of Prince Philipp".

Isabella Island

Isla Isla Isabella Island. It was named after Queen of Spain. This is the largest island of Galapagos Islands. Christopher Columbus became the inspector of the island.

The area of \u200b\u200bthe island is about 4640 square kilometers, the length is 100 kilometers, and its form resembles a shape of a sea horse. On the this moment On the island there are five young acting volcanoes, of which two are in the equator.

The island is very rich in its vegetable and animal world. It's amazing beautiful place! Sea iguana, penguins, crabs, pelicans, Galapagos Turtles, Olushi and other inhabitants live here. From the islands you can watch Galapagos whales, which are 16 species here.

The local population of the island is only about 2,200 people. This territory is the most important reserve of the country, because it is here that more than 60 percent of the types of flora and fauna are concentrated.

North Seymour Island

Northern Seymour is one of the islands of the Galapagos archipelago, it is not very big and is a favorite place of nesting of seabirds: frigates, olheshes and chap. Of course, marine lions, iguana and sea seals, who are not disturbed by even strong waves, fighting about the picturesque rocky shores do not interfere with the islands and traditional Galapaghossors.

Cliffs, by the way, are often replaced by white sandy beaches, filled with flocks of Galapagos Penguins, knocking into a bunch and arrange mass jumps in search of food. Such unusual swims annually collect crowds of tourists who remove an amazing spectacle on video, but, of course, from a respectful distance, so as not to interfere with the fragile natural ecosystem.

It is surrounded by an island of a road with a length of 2 km, passing through the place, which is considered to be the largest point of the nesting of the birds-frigates. By the way, local birds of people are practically not afraid. However, tourists there go solely on special trails accompanied by guides, but sometimes the birds themselves go on these tracks and stop at the distance of the elongated hand.

San Cristobal Island

San Cristobal is the most east of the Galapagos Islands. The center of the island is the city of the same name, where one of the two main airports in the region is located, so many tourists start their journey exactly from here.

All conditions for tourism have been created on the island - a developed infrastructure with many hotels, restaurants, shops and access to transport. Also on the island there are many attractions, the main of which are various beaches and tourist centers. The island is home to various animals and birds - sea lions live here, elephant turtles, various types of oleshi, iguana, seagulls. In the waters, washing the island live Dolphins, sharks, races, lobsters and others. Also tourists will delight the variety of fruits that grow on the island - oranges, bananas, pineapples, lemons and other plants.

Galapagos Islands

The Pacific Galapagos Islands, belonging to the Republic of Ecuador, is also called the Turtle Islands, because in Spanish "Turtles" - "Galapagos". It is not surprising that this is the animal that became a symbol of the archipelago, because a large number of giant sea turtles live here. But, of course, the turtles are not the only pride of the islands. There are many plants and animals that live anywhere else anywhere else, for example, sea iguana, endemic seals or a Galapagos sea cat.

Such rich natural heritage It is impossible to leave without protection, because most of the rare animals are close to extinction today. National Park Galapagosov includes almost all the islands of the archipelago. The islands are diverse: some of them are covered with thick tropical vegetation, and the desert "lunar" landscape reigns on others.

Galapagos islands are amazing, and lovers of wildlife are happy to visit these places to watch rare creatures and enjoy wonderful species.

Bartolome Island

Bartolome Island is a small island of volcanic origin, an area of \u200b\u200bjust 1.2 square kilometers. Despite the small size of the island, here you can see some of the most beautiful landscapes in the region. Also, visitors can see different animals and relax on beautiful beaches.

The island consists of two parts, on one of which tourists can rise to Pinnacle peak, which is the most famous and popular Moz On the island and from the top to explore the island's landscapes. In another part of the island, tourists can engage in snorkeling, near the marine lions, penguins and other underwater inhabitants. You can also observe rare green turtles that nest on the island.

Santa Fe Island

Santa Fe Island is located in the middle of the Galapagos archipelago, has an area of \u200b\u200b24 square kilometers. Tourists attract one of the most beautiful bays on the islands and a variety of flora and fauna.

The Island Bay is its main attraction, is characterized by protectedness from winds and storms and attracts with its pure turquoise waters. Tourists can also see various animals living on the island and in its waters - sea lions, turtles, skates, iguan and many others. Walks will be interesting and away from coastlinewhere it will be possible to look at a variety of cacti species and other exotic plants.

Plaza Sur Island

Plaza-Sur Island is part of the Galapagos Islands and geographically belongs to Ecuador. He is even named so in honor of the former President of Ecuador - Leonidas Plaza. In fact, this island is one of natural reserves And open to visit tourists.

Galapagos Islands on the world map resemble an axer 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 cliffs, and entered into the UNESCO World Heritage Site. About 90% of the territory is the natural National Park.

Fame Galapagos Islands brought

Giant elephant turtles, which gave the name of the archipelago. The weight of the shell of these amazing animals resembling prehistoric creatures reaches 200 kg, length - 1.5 m.
Visiting the islands of Charles Darwin in 1835, after which the "theory of origin of species" was nominated during the research. The scientist drew attention to various types of unpretentious excavation reels.
Penguins listed in the Red Book. The habitat of these Arctic flashing birds at the equator is an amazing fact. Penguins chose their place in the tropics and perfectly fit into the local fauna due to the cold flow in the ocean, where they feel excellent.
Sea iguana. Up to 300,000 of these lizards occur in Galapaghods, occurring almost every step. They, oddly enough most Time is carried out in saline water, plunging and getting food.
The unimaginable variety of plant and animal world as a whole. Here you can really see with your own eyes unusual and rare species, many of which are no longer found anywhere on the planet.

Islands and attractions

The island is the largest, covers an area of \u200b\u200b4640 sq. Km and in shape resembles a sea skate. What does he attract tourists?

Here are the best picturesque blue lagoons of the Galapagos Islands in Ecuador.
On the island there are 6 largest volcanoes, 5 of which are still valid.
Only on the island of Isabel (and Fernandina), local penguins lay eggs and surround their offspring.
The extraordinary beauty is famous, as the place of habitat Iguan, they are found here at every step.
Bay Tagus. During the rest in the Galapagos Islands, it is necessary to visit here and climb to Lake Darwin.
On Isabel Island it is worth seeing a cry of crying with a sad story about inhuman attitude to prison prisoners

The island takes the second place in magnitude and is the most densely populated. From here most often take the beginning tourist excursions And cruises to the Galapagos Islands, because the airport is nearby. What is noteworthy this place?

On the island there is a Research Station named after Darwin.
In one of the highest points are located formed by the eruption of volcanoes.
Here, in the thickets of mangrove trees there is a black turtle bay, where these ancient gigids are matered.

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

Here is the acting volcano la-commerce, which wakes up every few years.
Punto-Espinosis is considered the habitat of the world's largest colony of sea iguan. Here they are bought by hundreds.

Island San Cristobal It is famous for the versatility of local flora and fauna, almost all types of animals and plants presented in the Galapagos Islands live here. What is interesting to this corner of the archipelago?

Here is the capital of Galapagosov - Puerto Bariso-Moreno.
Fregatber Hill Hill is known as the frigate hill, where you can watch these large birds.
Lake El Gijunko is the only freshwater source that never dries. Here you can watch the marsh birds and other representatives of the feathers.
Pitt's cape is famous for the fact that there are nesting of the extraordinary beauty of the birds - the blue and red-legged Olushi.

The island covers an area of \u200b\u200babout 60 sqm. This is the oldest island of Galapagos, whose age has 3.5 million years old. What is interesting to tourists this corner?

Here you can watch wavy albatrosses. It is on the rocks of Espanyola, and more anywhere in the world, these amazing rare birds nest.
Beach In Gulf, Gardner is very popular. The snow-white smallest sand here reminds scattered flour.

Island Santa Maria It was populated one of the first. There are two main attractions:

which attracts thousands of curious tourists. She is formed by the crater extluous volcano And it is interesting because the teeth stick out of the water, reminding the shape of the crown.
In the bay of sharks in the town of Punto-Corrotran, you can rinse your nerves, floating along with reef sharks.
Bay Post Office is famous for oak barrels found here, which in ancient times they performed the role of mailboxes.

The island is famous for an unusual forest of pear cacti, which grows in a height of up to 10 meters and resemble powerful trees. Seagulls, phaetons, petrels nest on weathered cliffs.

Island Santiago (San Salvador) recognized as the best place of observation marine quoteswhich are found only in three places of Galapagos. James Bay is a place where the greatest probability to see these endemic animals. In addition, rock crabs, hermit crayfish, four-headed sea dogs, sea sponges are inhabited.

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

Memo to tourist

It should be borne in mind that is under the protection and protection of the government, so the entrance to the territory is paid and amounts to $ 100 per person.
Here there are their own rules of behavior and sightseeing. For tourists, about 64 trails and platforms are allocated for tourists, deviate from which is prohibited.
The following types of entertainment are available on the islands: Turtle, swimming with marine lions, penguins, cats, snorkeling, diving, surfing, kayak skating, hiking, cycling, horse riding.
During excursions, observations and communicating with a local fauna, it is impossible to dry fires, litter, produce loud sounds and sharp movements that can harm them.
Of course, there is, and they offer the most different level of prices and services, from economy to the luxury class, but gorgeous restaurants and secular entertainment are unlikely to have a special washed. Therefore, instead of cocktail outfits and shoes here it is recommended to take comfortable cotton clothes and good photographic equipment to capture the Galapagos Islands in the photo in all their amazing beauty.

How to get to 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 South America 1000 km from Ecuador.

On the Galapagossky Islands, airports are in two places - on the Osts of Biltra and San Cristobal, so it can only be reached here with mainland Ecuador on airplanes. The cost of the flight there - back an average of about $ 350 - $ 400.

Such a rich natural heritage can not be left without protection, because most rare animals are close to extinction today. Galapagos National Park includes almost all the islands of the archipelago. The islands are diverse: some of them are covered with thick tropical vegetation, and the desert "lunar" landscape reigns on others.

Galapagos islands are amazing, and lovers of wildlife are happy to visit these places to watch rare creatures and enjoy wonderful species.

Espanyola Island.

Espanyola Island is also known as Hood (Hood). Espanyola Island was named after Spain. The island area is about 60 square kilometers, and the maximum height is 206 meters above sea level.

The age of the island is estimated at 3 and a half million years. This is the most ancient and most southern island from the entire archipelago. From a geographical point of view, it is the most classic example of a thyroid volcano, which was formed by the only Caldera in the center of the island. Over time, the island shifted from a hot spot, then the wing of the wonder, and erosion began.

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

In addition, guests of the island can meet here brightly colored marine iguan, chas, lizards, olheshes and chaffins. And large spacious bays attract a large number of nautical lions.

And what sights of the Galapagos Islands did you like? Next to the photography there are icons by clicking on which you can estimate this or that place.

Santa Cruz Island

Santa Cruz - the second largest island of the Galapagos archipelago. It contains the largest city of Puerto Ayor Archipelago, here you can find all the benefits of civilization. But the main attractions of the island, of course, are natural objects, which are on the island of many, because almost his entire area is occupied by the Galapagoss National Park.

There is an amazing place on Santa Cruz: located close to Puerto Iior Bay of Tortuga, which is a long beach with white sand, for which enough strong waves are characteristic. It is here that surfing lovers can engage in their favorite sports, and swimming lovers can relax at the end of the beach strip, where the surfers are no longer. Here you can explore Mangrove thickets, watch the birds-religious, pelicans, marine iguanami or swim in the company of Shark.

In the southwest of the island there is a Las Ningas Bay with calm waters, surrounded by cliffs in a tropical greenery, which is nearby Tunnel Beljevista, is famous for the fact that sea turtles are inhabited, various types of fish, races and sharks. In general, places worthy of detailed description on the island of Santa Cruz set, but it is better to see them with their own eyes.

Isla Isla Isabella Island. It was named after Queen of Spain. This is the largest island of Galapagos Islands. Christopher Columbus became the inspector of the island.

The area of \u200b\u200bthe island is about 4640 square kilometers, the length is 100 kilometers, and its form resembles a shape of a sea horse. At the moment, there are five young acting volcanoes on the island, of which two are at the equator.

The island is very rich in its vegetable and animal world. This is a surprisingly beautiful place! Sea iguana, penguins, crabs, pelicans, Galapagos Turtles, Olushi and other inhabitants live here. From the islands you can watch Galapagos whales, which are 16 species here.

Vulcan Sierra Negro

Sierra Negra - the acting volcano on Isabel Island, has a crater with a diameter of 11 kilometers. Volcano height - 1124 meters. Tourists attract their size and picturesque landscapes surrounding the volcano.

Sierra Negra is active volcano, the last eruption of which was in 2005. The volcano has quite large sizes, with the striking crater - a huge funnel with a diameter of 11 kilometers! Tourists are offered raising and walk around the edge of the crater on horseback, during which you can not only see the crater, but also birds and animals inhabiting the slopes of the volcano.

Florean Island

The most important attractions of the island is an unusually beautiful pink flamingo, which chose the lagoon at Cape Punta Cormorant. Here you can find the beach, where the eggs are laying large sea turtles.

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

Island Fernandina

Fernandina Galapagos Archipelago island located in the waters of the Pacific Ocean and was named so in honor of the King of Spain, who supported the Great Columbus Larker in his expedition.

In the very center of the island, there is a valid volcano La Cumbre, in connection with this, the journey through Fernanddine represents some threat to tourists. There you can see the depression formed as a result of the collapse of the top of the volcano, at the bottom of which is overflowing 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 the endless expanses of the Pacific Ocean.

Flora is not rich, the only thing that can survive in the complex natural conditions laurel cacti, which here is a great set, and mangrove thickets along the coast.

Are you interested to know how well you know the sights of the Galapagos Islands? .

Santa Fe Island

The Island Bay is its main attraction, is characterized by protectedness from winds and storms and attracts with its pure turquoise waters. Tourists can also see various animals living on the island and in its waters - sea lions, turtles, skates, iguan and many others. Walks will be interesting and away from the coastline, where it will be possible to look at a variety of cacti species and other exotic plants.

The most popular attractions in the Galapagos Islands with descriptions and photos for every taste. Choose best places To visit famous places of Galapagos Islands on our site.

More attractions of the Galapagos Islands

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.

Consist of Galapagos Islands from thirteen major islands, six - small and hundred seven rocks and woven 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. Another acting volcano, Wulf, which is located on Isabella Island, erupts less often and is the most high point 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 announced Biosphere reserve 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

On the territory of the unique reserve, the Galapagos Turtle lives - the largest turtle on earth, which is rightfully considered one of the most long-lived vertebrates of the world: in wildlife 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). Currently, Galapagos Islands have twelve out of fifteen subspecies of these reptiles:

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;
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.