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Galapagos Islands
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This Archipelago is a living museum of evolutionary changes. Free and fearless animals, different from any others found elsewhere, make visitors wonder about their very existence on our planet. The UNESCO declared Galapagos as a World Natural Heritage Site in 1978 and subsequently a World Biosphere Reserve in 1985. Among the animals found are the different species of giant Galapagos tortoises that gave the islands their name due to the similarity of their carapaces to a British riding saddle called Galapagos in Spanish.
A very big variety of birds are found here, like blue footed, red footed and masked boobies, flamingos, frigate birds, albatrosses, unique small penguins and non-flying cormorants and 14 different species of finches. These various species of finches served as proof of Darwin’s theory of evolution for natural selection. Marine mammals such as sea lions, dolphins and whales are also found; as well as multitudinous colorful fishes. The most distinctive plants are mangroves and endemic cacti. The Galapagos Islands house an incredibly high rate of endemic species. In 1835, Charles Darwin sailed on the British ship H.M.S Beagle and visited the islands. His writings on the theory of the origin of species, which shook up the scientific world, were inspired by the living proof that he found in this unique volcanic Archipelago.
The islands are located 600 miles from the Ecuadorian Coast. In 1936, they were declared a National Park to preserve the flora and fauna of the 13 large islands, 6 minor ones and more than 40 islets. The origin of the Galapagos Islands is volcanic. The islands appear from lava eruptions that came from the bottom of the ocean and that rise as much as 2.600 ft. above sea level. Lava from more than 2.000 craters has continuously altered the terrain of the region. In 1959 the Government , along with the Charles Darwin Foundation, UNESCO and other international scientific organizations, established a biological research station on the islands. All tours take you to a visit of the Station. Scientist greet visitors while they instruct on the marvels of the islands.
VIP Tour Group has carefully selected a variety of Galapagos itineraries featuring the finest cruise ships, yachts and hotels in the archipelagos, providing you with the best selection of wildlife activities available to explore the natural beauty and wonder of the Galapagos Islands. Activities you can enjoy during your Galapagos adventure include snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, horseback riding, hiking, mountain biking, beach combing and many more. You will also visit various islands and sites such as lava fields, island trails, giant tortoise reserves, the Darwin research center, marine sites and breeding farms.
VIP Tour Group has no fixed departure dates. We plan One-of-a-Kind Luxury Travel completely designed for you. Call our travel planners now to see how easy it is... (800)772-9188.
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Casa Iguana Private Villa
"Iguana House" is a luxury property located in Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island, in the Archipelago of Galapagos. In th...
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Finch Bay Eco Resort
The charming Finch Bay is named after the famous Darwin Finches abundant in the surrounding area and is just steps from ...
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Galapagos Safari Camp
Galapagos Safari Camp is a new way to see the Galapagos, either in addition to a cruise or as unique destination in itse...
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Red Mangrove
Santa Cruz island is the most important of the inhabitated islands of Galapagos archipel. Puerto Ayora is the largest to...
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Royal Palm Hotel
The Royal Palm is a unique secluded hideway nestled in the lush highlands of Santa Cruz Island in the heart of the Galáp...
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The Pikaia Lodge
The Pikaia Lodge opens in November of 2013 and is designed for the environmentally conscious, eco-adventure traveller, w...
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