A thousand kilometres from the Ecuadorian coast are volcanic islands that is home to some of the most amazing creatures found nowhere else on Earth. It is a place bursting with rich marine life and impeccable biodiversity. The same place scientist Charles Darwin talked about in his book 'Voyage of the Beagle' in 1989. This place is called the Galapagos Islands.
It remains to be one of the most popular places to visit for those who want to see nature's best. Out of the 127 islands of the Galapagos, 19 are relatively large and only 4 are inhabited. There are some islands that specifically serve as airports and tourism docks.
Galapagos boasts of its underwater wildlife where one can find 2909 marine species. Some of the classified high profile species present are sharks, rays, cetaceans and whale sharks. Beneath their waters are also geomorphologic forms which can be found only in the island. Its geographical location is the reason for their rich marine life because three ocean currents converge in their territorial seas making it one of the richest ecosystems in the world.
What makes an adventure to the islands unique and worthwhile is that tourists are able to experience and have a close encounter with the wildlife. Visitors often get a chance to see sea lions, marine iguanas, giant tortoises, penguins, flightless cormorants, finches, mockingbirds, seabirds and a lot more. The islands' flora is comprised of 500 species of vascular plants as well as the giant daisy trees.
The islands historic and scientific value remains unparalleled. This is why the United Nations named the islands a World Heritage Site. It is truly a place worth discovering. There are regular trips to the island and tourists can mingle with the locals. Popular activities apart from sightseeing are surfing, diving and snorkelling. But since the United Nations and the Galapagos local government are trying their best to preserve the islands and protect the several endangered species living on it, it is best for tourists to avail of tour itineraries that have been coordinated with its government.
This article is copyrighted by Travelers Today, the travel news leader
