Exploring the Wonders of the Galápagos Islands

The Galápagos Islands emerged from the seabed through tectonic and volcanic activities. They are located on the Nazca Plate, moving eastward, colliding with the South American Plate, making them one of the most active volcanic areas.

Charles Darwin visited the Galápagos in 1835. The unique fauna, particularly finches with varying beak shapes, helped him develop his theory of natural selection, a cornerstone of evolutionary biology.

Established in 1959, the Galápagos Marine Reserve is the second largest marine reserve worldwide. It's an underwater realm of diverse ecosystems, protecting a plethora of species, from sea lions to hammerhead sharks.

The Galápagos Islands are home to the world's only known population of pink iguanas, discovered recently in 2009. These rare creatures reside on Wolf Volcano and are critically endangered due to their limited range.

These islands are named after the giant tortoises ('galápago' in Spanish). These long-lived reptiles can weigh over 400kg and are considered a symbol of the Galápagos, playing a crucial role in the ecosystem.

The islands face threats from invasive species, tourism, and climate change. Efforts to protect and manage this UNESCO World Heritage site are vital for preserving its unique biodiversity and ecological importance.

The Galápagos Flightless Cormorant evolved to lose its ability to fly, making it one of the rarest seabirds, with only about 1,000 individuals remaining.