Galapagos Islands

The Galápagos Islands, made famous for inspiring biologist Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution through natural selection, provide tourists the opportunity to observe-without the aid of binoculars-the unique and often unusual characteristics and behavior of island bird, reptile, mammal, and fish species not found anywhere else in the world. Nearly one in four species is endemic, or found only in the Galápagos. And because many of the animals in the Galápagos have no natural predators, both land and sea animals remain "ecologically naïve," virtually fearless and unaffected by visitors.
On land you will find yourself sidestepping over lounging sea lions, darting lava lizards, and scuttling Sally Lightfoot crabs. Bird enthusiasts have the unexpected opportunity to observe both penguins and flamingos as well as blue-footed, red-footed, and masked boobies flying, nesting, and fishing.
In part due to the dynamic collision of three ocean currents at the Galápagos, there is an unbelievable abundance of sea life. As a result, visitors can observe large, charismatic marine biota-like dolphins, sharks, sea turtles, and the occasional fin or sperm whale-as well as colorful reef fish and echinoderms (sea stars, brittle stars, sea cucumbers) found only in the waters surrounding the archipelago. Another highlight is snorkeling mask-to-whiskers with playful sea lion pups. Galapagos is one of the world's premier SCUBA diving sites.
If you are a passive traveler envisioning long naps on the beach and spacious accommodations, you best not spend the money on Galapagos. Instead, expect to be visually and intellectually stimulated (if not physically challenged) by the unique beauty, natural history, and evolutionary processes witnessed on each island.

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