The Galapagos Islands - Nature's Living Laboratory

The Galapagos Islands are an archipelago that has become synonymous with the word evolution. For scientists, it is a model ecosystem where you can observe natural selection in action. For travelers, it is one of the few places on the planet where wildlife lives by its own rules, experiencing almost no pressure from civilization.

The Galapagos Islands are located in the eastern Pacific Ocean, approximately 1,000 kilometers from the coast of Ecuador, to which they belong administratively. The archipelago consists of 13 large islands, 6 smaller ones, and more than a hundred rocks and reefs. All of them are of volcanic origin and were formed as a result of the activity of a hot spot - a stable magmatic source under the seabed. The oldest island is more than 5 million years old, while some are still growing.

Interestingly, the islands are located right at the intersection of several ocean currents: the warm Panamanian, the cold Peruvian, and the Cromwell underwater current. This creates unique conditions: the water temperature can change by 10-12 degrees literally within 24 hours, and the ecosystems of neighboring islands can differ greatly.

The climate of the archipelago is divided into two distinct seasons. The wet season lasts from January to May - at this time it is warmer, the water is clearer, the rains are short-lived, and nature is especially active. From June to December comes the dry season, bringing coolness, cloudiness and activity of marine species: sharks, whales, seabirds. The choice of season for travel depends on preferences: in one case - the best weather, in another - more chances to see rare animals.

The isolation of the Galapagos Islands has played a key role in the formation of unique flora and fauna. More than 30% of the archipelago's land species are endemic, found nowhere else on the planet. This is the result of millions of years of evolution in a closed environment, without predators or competitors.

The most famous inhabitant of the archipelago is the Galapagos giant tortoise. These animals can live up to 150 years and weigh more than 300 kg. Turtles once lived on almost all the islands, but centuries of hunting and human intervention have reduced their numbers. Today, programs are underway to restore populations.

The marine iguana, another endemic, is unique in that it is the only lizard in the world that feeds in the ocean. It swims well and can hold its breath for up to 30 minutes. Its appearance - a black shell, a "crown" of salt deposits and "ancient" behavior - evokes admiration among biologists and tourists.

Birds occupy a special place in the ecosystem. Darwin's finches, of which there are 18 species today, differ in the shape and size of their beaks. These differences are directly related to diet and lifestyle, which became one of Darwin's key observations during his expedition on the Beagle in 1835.

In addition to finches, the Galapagos Islands are home to blue-footed and red-footed boobies, Galapagos albatrosses, frigatebirds, and the world's only penguin that lives on the equator. The marine life is also impressive: turtles, hammerhead sharks, manta rays, sea lions, rays, whales, and dolphins all live in the waters of the archipelago.

A special feature is the lack of fear of humans in animals. In the Galapagos, you can watch an iguana sunbathing two meters away from you, and a gannet sauntering along a tourist trail. That is why it is so important to follow the established rules and not interfere with the animals' behavior.

The Galapagos Islands are one of the few places on the planet where ecotourism is not just a slogan, but a system with clear rules, control and an educational mission. More than 97% of the archipelago's territory is a protected area of ​​the National Park, created in 1959. Since 1978, the islands have been included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. In 1998, the Marine Reserve was created - the second largest in the world.

Every tourist must comply with strict rules:

• Visiting the islands only with a certified guide.
• A ban on any actions that affect the animal world: feeding, touching, sound irritants.
• A ban on plastic packaging and bringing biological objects (fruits, plants, seeds).
• Strict control over waste, including toilet and household water on ships.

The islanders themselves are not just residents, but participants in the protection of ecosystems. Schools include environmental education in their curriculum, and tourist centres regularly host exhibitions, lectures and environmental monitoring projects.

The first thing to decide is the type of trip. The most popular option is an island hopping cruise. Ships range from budget to luxury, and last from 4 to 15 days. Cruises allow you to visit remote islands, such as Genovesa or Fernandina, that are not accessible on regular tours.

Another option is land-based tourism. You can stay on Santa Cruz or San Cristobal, for example, and take day trips. This is cheaper and allows you to interact more with the local culture. There is also specialized diving tourism, which is chosen by experienced divers who want to dive in waters where hammerhead sharks and giant manta rays live.

Regardless of the format, preparation includes:

• Book in advance: places are limited, especially in high season (July, December).
• Closure: lightweight fabrics that cover the body; sun protection; comfortable shoes for walking on lava.
• Minimize your luggage: plastic bags, aerosols and deodorants with aggressive chemicals are prohibited.
• Financial preparation: entrance to the national park is subject to a fee (about 100 US dollars for foreign tourists).

Santa Cruz is the most urban of the islands. It is home to the Charles Darwin Research Station, turtle hatcheries, and many hotels. It is a convenient jumping-off point.

Isabela is the largest island by area. It features active volcanoes, dense mangroves, and all the major animal species. It is popular for hiking.

San Cristobal is one of the oldest islands in the archipelago, and is the destination for international flights. It has an interpretive museum and large colonies of sea lions.

Floreana is one of the least populated islands, with a rich history of early settlers and mysterious disappearances. It is suitable for a secluded getaway.

Genovessa is a birdwatcher's paradise. It is home to thousands of birds, including nesting frigatebirds, gannets, and cormorants. Visits are only possible on cruises.

The Galapagos Islands are more than just a place to travel. They are a challenge to our perception of the world. Here, man is a guest and nature is the host. And if we want to preserve this wonder, we must learn not only to observe, but also to respect.

A visit to the archipelago leaves an indelible impression. It awakens awareness, admiration for the complexity of nature, and a desire to be part of the solution, not the problem. After all, preserving the Galapagos means preserving the living history of our planet.