Facts about the Galapagos Islands

Discover the mysteries of the Galapagos Islands, an enchanting archipelago in the heart of the Pacific Ocean. This guide delves into its rich biodiversity, unique landscapes, and intriguing history. Join us in exploring the natural wonders and extraordinary wildlife that made these islands a source of inspiration for Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution.

The Galapagos Islands are famous for the diverse plant and animal life found both on land and in the surrounding seas. With more than 400 species of fish, some of the most unique birds on the planet, and an iconic collection of other native and endemic Galapagos wildlife, visiting the islands can feel like you’re literally stepping into a National Geographic-style documentary. A visit to this remarkable archipelago may be a lot more viable than you think. Here are 20 interesting facts about the Galapagos Islands to pique your curiosity.

1. 97 % of the Galapagos is a National Park

These “Enchanted Isles,” located about 600 mi (970 km) off the coast of Ecuador, are incredibly significant in scientific research. Thankfully, the Galapagos National Park, established over 60 years ago through presidential decree, has taken the lead in facilitating these critical studies, whose conclusions have helped guide conservation and protection efforts in the region. This is a big deal because 97% of the island’s land mass has been declared a national park, and the surrounding waters have been named a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Ecuador protects the park and the marine reserve, which are primarily uninhabited. The Galapagos National Park collects an entrance fee from all island visitors (currently USD 100). The remaining 3% of land areas outside the national park are home to roughly 30,000 people.

2. Galapagos has active volcanos

The Galapagos Islands, a volcanic archipelago in the Pacific Ocean, have experienced numerous volcanic eruptions over the past century. The most recent eruption occurred at Sierra Negra Volcano on Isabela Island from June 26 to August 23, 2018. These eruptions have raised concerns about potential repercussions on the islands’ unique flora and fauna, particularly on endemic species like the iconic pink iguanas. Despite the possible destruction, volcanic eruptions offer a unique opportunity to study volcanic dynamics and their impact on island ecosystems. The islands also attract tourists, serving as a reminder of Earth’s constant evolution and the unstoppable force of our planet. Protecting and studying these natural phenomena is crucial for better understanding our world and preserving the Galapagos Islands’ rich biodiversity for future generations.

3. The number of islands is up for debate

By most accounts, the Galapagos Islands are comprised of a total of 19 islands and dozens of islets. However, keep in mind that the Galapagos Islands are constantly changing due to continuous volcanic activity, with new formations emerging or sinking, meaning new islands may very well be forming as we speak! Get to know more about how to get to the Galapagos.

4. Three varieties of colorful boobies (seabirds)

Boobies belong to the gannet group (Sulidae). They are the most popular seabirds because they occupy some curious habitats and have colorful webbed feet. Red-footed boobies use the branches of trees and bushes as nesting areas, while blue-footed boobies and Nazca boobies nest along the ground, a bit further inland. Their distinctive diets are responsible for the pigmentation in their feet.

5. Penguins in the Northern Hemisphere?

The Galápagos Islands, a tropical archipelago, is home to the unique marine and air currents that contribute to the outstanding ecological balance of the region. The Galápagos penguin, the second smallest species, adapts to the warm climate of the Isabela and Fernandina islands, utilizing its smaller size and extended water-based activities to maintain coolness. Conservation efforts are underway to protect their nesting sites and preserve their unique species, challenging common perceptions of the planet’s ecological diversity.

6. Marine iguanas are excellent swimmers

Nearly 20% of the marine life in the islands is endemic to the area; this includes marine iguanas. These are the only lizards in the world who enjoy water so much that they’ve learned to swim in it! They feed almost entirely on seaweed (algae).

7. Any time is a great time to visit

The Galapagos Islands, located near the equator, have a year-round temperate climate with two distinct seasons: a hot season from December through May and a slightly cooler dry season from June through November. The islands are either lush, green, tropical or barren, colorful, and arid, with more rainfall in the hot season and calmer seas. The dry season experiences southeast trade winds, indicating increased marine activity. Visiting the Galapagos Islands is possible year-round, with the best packages offering significant savings, including accommodations, meals, transportation, and activities in Galapagos. Read our blog about the best time to go to Galapagos Islands.

8. The amount of daylight remains the same all year-round

Another cool feature of the Galapagos Islands is that the days and nights are of equal duration, so you’ll have plenty of chances to see the diurnal and nocturnal animals. Because of its tropical location, there is no need for daylight savings. Throughout the year, the Galapagos Islands have an average of 12 hours of sunlight daily.

9. Long live the Galapagos giant tortoise

The average Galapagos giant tortoise can live for well over a century. Their longevity is the highest of any vertebrate on land. Seeing them in the wild is truly something unique.

10. Swimming with sea turtles

The green sea turtle is an ancient species. Researchers believe these turtles swam the ocean and walked the beaches with dinosaurs.

11. The intersection of three tectonic plates

The islands are formed by the juncture of three tectonic plates: the Pacific, Cocos, and Nazca. The result is infrequent volcanic activity and incredibly diverse landscapes—a spectacular visual feast!

12. The arrival of Charles Darwin to the Galapagos

Follow Charles Darwin’s footsteps by exploring the same islands and sites he visited in 1835. Galapagos National Park-certified naturalist guides teach visitors how the theory of natural selection was first conceived here, and of course, they can take a selfie with Charles Darwin’s statue!

13. 800 species of mollusks and over 400 species of fish

Admirers of marine life will appreciate the vast number of mollusk species, including snails, octopus, cuttlefish, oysters, squid, and a remarkable and colorful variety of fish species. You can see many of these firsthand when snorkeling in the Galapagos National Park.

14. The word "Galápago" and the Islands' iconic turtles

The term “Galápago” refers to the old Castilian word meaning “riding saddle”. The shell (carapace) of this giant tortoise indeed resembles a saddle.

15. Enjoy comfortable temperatures throughout the year

While you expect the temperatures on the islands to soar, given their proximity to the equator, they remain quite comfortable. Throughout the year, average land temperatures range between79° and 86°F (26.1° to 30°C), while ocean temperatures along the island coasts hover between 71° and 78°F (21.7° to 25.6°C)

16. Less than 79,000 visitors tour Galapagos on liveaboards annually

The Galapagos Islands see about 79,000 visitors annually who travel on various liveaboard cruises and from Galapagos tours. This number of people is fewer than the number of folks in attendance at any given sold-out event at a typical professional football stadium in the US So, you can expect to see other people during your visit, but you won’t have to worry about any vast crowds within the Galapagos National Park, as site visits are scheduled and approved by the park, and registered with the appropriate permissions. This limits the number of site visitors in any set window of time. Peak season in the archipelago is from June through August and mid-December to mid-January. Also, when visiting the park, a Galapagos National Park-certified naturalist guide must accompany explorers, and the ratio established by park rules is a maximum of 16 visitors per guide. Some Galapagos cruises offer even better ratios, averaging 8 to 12 guests per guide. Chatting with a destination expert can give you an even better picture of what to expect on your trip to the Enchanted Isles.

17. Geology is constantly in flux

The oldest islands are gradually sinking back into the ocean, but the youngest ones are rising.

18. Ocean currents are rather unpredictable

The islands are home to a convergence of currents. The Equatorial, Humboldt, Cromwell, and Panama currents converge in this region. For this reason, wave action here is unpredictable, and there can be some variance in water temperatures, visibility, and marine species due to upwellings. The weather in Galapagos is almost entirely dependent on ocean currents. El Niño originates off the coast of the Galapagos and can alter other ocean currents, weather patterns, and food availability in marine and terrestrial environments.

19. Wild animals have little fear of humans

In the Galapagos, there needs to be more natural predators. Thus, the creatures on the islands have very little natural fear of people. The Galapagos National Park has established key rules to help protect the animals and their habitats. Visitors must always remain at a minimum safe distance of 6.5 ft (2m) from wildlife.

20. Leave your message in a barrel

During the 18th Century, on the Floreana island, crew members traveling aboard various whaling ships in the region used a barrel as a postal box. This site became known as Post Office Bay, and to this day, it remains a popular attraction for many visitors who wish to leave a letter or postcard or pick one up if they believe they can deliver it to the addressee. If you’re looking for an exciting and educational vacation opportunity to delight the entire family, the Galapagos Islands are just the thing. Home to many unique species and landscapes, visitors touring the islands on a live-aboard cruise can see tremendous wildlife and truly explore the Enchanted Isles. You can enjoy most of these highlights on our Galapagos tours. Interested in learning more? Be sure to click here for more Galapagos Information.

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