Galapagos Islands
This chain of "enchanted islands," located some 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador in South America, is one of the most remarkable places on earth because of its unique natural history. Most animals and plants here have evolved in isolation from the rest of the world. Some scientists theorize that many of these species evolved on a much older chain of islands that is now submerged to the west of the Galapagos.
Many of the animals, from iguanas to tortoises, seem utterly prehistoric in nature. The only large land mammal is the Galapagos sea lion, although due to the incursions of man, feral goats and other mammals have decimated some of the islands.
A group of us traveled here in mid December 2003, visiting Santa Cruz, South Plaza, Floreana, Isabela, Fernandina, James and Bartoleme islands. We lived and traveled aboard the 78-foot motor yacht Samba, eating well, hiking and snorkeling.
Iguanas
Galapagos Sea Lions
Galapagos Tortoise
Birds
Pacific Green Turtle
And More Animals
Landscapes
Life Aboard the Samba
