What’s So Special About The Galápagos Islands? (“Sounds And Colours” Places)

Dear friends, today we start with “Sounds and Colours” a new column about the most fascinating places of Latin America and the Caribbean. There are places on the planet that beckon with their mystery and uniqueness, and the Galapagos a Archipelago (Ecuador) is one of them. The Archipelago consists of several islands of volcanic origin and feels like another world. If you want to plunge into the world of pristine nature, go on vacation here and visit the islands with the certified naturalist guide. 

And can you imagine the impressions and emotions experienced by the discoverer who first saw this beautiful masterpiece of nature? This fantastic archipelago was discovered in the sixteenth century by the Bishop of Panama, Fray Tomás de Berlanga. He was ordered to sail to Peru but discovered the archipelago on his way. There is a legend that he was fascinated by it and called the new islands beautiful. And what else could one call this miracle of nature, where lifeless black, lost in the ocean, pieces of land could turn into equatorial forests? Later the archipelago was explored by Spanish sailors. They were amazed by the number of turtles living there and gave it the name “Turtle Islands” or the Galapagos Islands. The Spanish word “galápago” derives from a pre-Roman Iberian word meaning “turtle”, 

The Galapagos Archipelago is often called a fantastic place because of its flora and fauna. Here you can meet bright parrots and strict penguins, tropical birds and arctic seagulls, dolphins, and seals. The islands are home to a variety of plants, from northern mosses to tropical lianas. The unique climate and isolation from the outside world were factors in the emergence of a fantasy world. Therefore, a naturalist flying to the archipelago has something to study and explore, and a tourist has something to see. By the way, two hundred years ago Charles Darwin, known as the author of the theory of evolution, also visited the archipelago. 

Who knows, maybe he was inspired by the presence of “survived dragons” on the islands – marine iguanas, or giant turtles? In January, thanks to the warm current, the islands blossom, striking with a riot of emerald green and a bright palette of colors. The archipelago is a UNESCO-protected natural site and Ecuador’s top natural attraction.

Tips For Travelers To The Archipelago 

The archipelago includes thirteen islands larger in size and many smaller ones, measuring a few squares. Santa Cruz is the most densely populated island of the archipelago. In the main town of Puerto Ayora, there are good hotels and attractions, so every visitor to Galapagos will find something to do at any time of day. There is no chance you will spend much time in your hotel room watching TV or gambling at Limewin Casino on your smartphone. 

For example, you can start the day with a rest on the picturesque beach of Tortuga Bay, and finish it with a visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station. Or you can go to a center that breeds turtles and then visit the lava caves. There are other activities in the coastal waters of the island for those who are looking for more including diving, surfing, and, kayaking. Galapagos with its clear waters is a real paradise for divers. The underwater world is rich and diverse, making it ideal for diving. And the lucky ones will be able to boast an encounter with sea giants, and beautiful whales. Note that you can do all this while staying only on one island of the archipelago, and there are thirteen of them! Therefore, a cruise can be ideal for those who want to see as many islands as possible and the whole archipelago from the outside. After all, they are completely different and cause opposite feelings.

Santiago Island feels like an uncharted land with mysterious inhabitants. On Santa Cruz Island you can enjoy the beauty of the surrounding world, the scents of the sea and flowers, and feel truly happy. Puerto Ayora is bustling with life. There are many fairs with souvenirs, colorful festivals, and a diving center. The largest of the islands, Isabella Island has a magnificent volcano crater with a diameter of ten kilometers. Isabella Island is home to the largest colony of giant turtles in the world. Ecotourism enthusiasts will find on San Cristobal Island the largest number of animals and birds in natural conditions, unafraid of humans. The Española Island is famous for excursions to albatross sightings in the immediate vicinity and the dancing of blue-footed boobies during the mating season. Don’t miss the chance to visit the enchanting Galapagos Archipelago!

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