GALAPAGOS
The Galápagos archipelago is world-renowned for its unique and fearless wildlife- much of which was inspiration for Charles Darwin's Theory of Natural Selection. The islands are therefore very popular amongst natural historians, both professional and amateur. Giant tortoises, sea lions, penguins, marine iguanas and different bird species can all be seen and approached. The landscape of the islands is relatively barren and volcanic, but beautiful nonetheless. The highest mountain amongst the islands is Volcán Wolf on Isla Isabela, 1707 m (5600ft) high.
The Galápagos were claimed by newly-independent Ecuador in 1832, a mere three years before Darwin's visit on the Beagle. During the 19th and early 20th centuries, the islands were inhabited by very few settlers and were used as a penal colony, the last closing in 1959 when the islands were declared a national park. The Galapagos were subsequently listed as a World Heritage Site in 1978.
Strict controls on tourist access are maintained in an effort to protect the natural habitats and all visitors must be accompanied by a national park-certified naturalist tour guide.
Las Grietas
Not only it is a beautiful walk to get there, but it is an amazing place to see : a sort of fissure through the land and barely reaching the sea. This natural canyon is filled with a mix beteween sea and fresh water where people come to swim. Up to 11 meters deep, it is cristal clear and you can spot many fish. Definitely a must...
Loberia
Maybe the highlight of all the things we did in Puerto Ayora. I’m not a fan of boats, but this is ideal. Loberia is a mere 15 min from Puerto Ayora, so no time to get sea sick, and there are plenty of sea lions coming to play around you and check you out. The tour guides are very nice and always keep snorkeling equipment on the boat. the Sea is cristal clear and there are fish...
