Basic ecotouristic information on Galapagos National Park (Ecuador) - localization, access, characteristic, fauna and flora, possible activities.
Localization
Group of islands 926 km west of Ecuadorean coast.
Access
Easy - by air or by boat from Ecuador or Paru.
Characteristic
7880 km2 (45 000 km2 of ocean waters); 13 large islands (larger than 10 km2), 6 small islands and 107 islets and cliffs of volcanic origin. Islands are in fact summits of submarine volcanoes - the highest point is the summit of Wolf Volcano (1707 m) on Isabela Island. Human settlements can be found on 5 big islands only (Isabela, Baltra, Floreana, San Cristobal and Santa Cruz). Still very frequent volcanic activities - many phenomenons connected with this activity. Big differences in climate and ecosystems among islands influenced especially by several sea streams. The temperature of both the air and water are warmer from December through till May. However, it’s also rainy season. The Humboldt Current moves from the southern tip of South America to the Galapagos, bringing cold water and air temperature from June to November. During these months, despite increased cloud cover, it rarely rains. Typical ecosystems: volcanic biotopes, sea and coastal ecosystems, mangroves, desert and semi-desert biotopes, mountainous steppe (pampa), dry forest and bush, cloud forest. These islands are extremely important by their very long time isolation, Galapagos never have been connected with a continent - proofs of animal species evolution possessed by Ch. Darwin. Absolutely unique fauna with extraordinary high ratio of endemic species often restricted to one island only. Large marine reserve is included into Galapagos national park.
Fauna + Flora
Species List - See the Attachment Below
(Species list may not be complete)
Possible activities
Activities on most of islands are strictly restricted - walking only along marked trails allowed. Local guided walks are obligatory.
Swimming, snorkelling, diving, fishing, kayaking and surfing.
Note
National park is on the List of World Natural Heritage UNESCO
Access is administratively restricted - entrance fee to the islands 100 USD cash, journey must be prepared long time in advance.
Best time to visit VI-IX and XII-I.