Galapagos Islands, Volcanic archipelago in Pacific Ocean, Ecuador
The Galapagos Islands form a volcanic archipelago comprising 13 major islands, 6 smaller landmasses, and numerous rocky outcrops distributed across 59,500 square kilometers (23,000 square miles) of Pacific waters. Most rise directly from the ocean with jagged coastlines of black lava rock, while some offer gentle beaches with fine sand and calm coves where sea lions rest.
Bishop Tomás de Berlanga reached these shores in 1535 after drifting off course from Panama. Buccaneers later established hideouts here during the 17th and 18th centuries, raiding Spanish ships that carried Peruvian treasure.
The Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz runs daily scientific projects and conservation efforts for native animals and plants in this ecologically important territory. Visitors can observe giant tortoises here and learn about ongoing efforts to protect local species, which are displayed on site.
Two airports provide access: San Cristóbal and Seymour on Baltra Island, both receiving daily flights from mainland Ecuador. Visitors must pay national park entrance fees and present identification documents upon arrival.
The only penguin species living north of the equator inhabits these waters thanks to cold ocean currents bringing nutrient-rich Antarctic waters that moderate the tropical climate and sustain diverse marine life. These birds swim near coastlines, especially along the western shores of Isabela and Fernandina, where the water stays coolest.
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