February 2025
www.nitravelnews.com
GALAPA-GO! | 47
Escorted tours and holidays to the Galapagos Islands
This extraordinary island is also home to
five species of giant tortoise, whose sanctuary we also visited. These amazing animals were almost hunted to extinction by the early seafarers, who rounded them up and took them onboard as living store cupboards Now the pattern was set for the following
days sailing between and around the islands and coming quietly ashore to stay on Floriana and San Christobel and to follow the predesignated wildlife routes, either before or after the daily cruise ship invasions. I experienced two more close-up and personal encounter with the wildlife of Galapagos when literally thousands of giant red crabs went scuttling away over the rocks as we waded into the water to go snorkelling. Then there was the never to be forgotten
final afternoon as our cruiser headed back to Santa Cruz and I lay on the cabin roof, hands folded behind my head staring up at an escorting squadron of black iconic Frigate Birds keeping constant station just a few feet above my head.
* For many more of Nigel’s travel adventures and novels simply Google Amazon Books - Going Abroad Nigel Heath.
DISCOVER the Galapagos Islands and their diverse environments, ranging from rugged volcanoes to idyllic beaches and lush nature reserves. Located 600 miles west of Ecuador’s mainland, this remarkable chain of 19 islands is famous for its unique wildlife, which significantly influenced Charles Darwin’s research on natural selection. The Galapagos consist of 13 major islands spread across 23,000 square miles of the Pacific Ocean, positioned at the convergence of various ocean currents. A trip to the Galapagos provides a rare chance to witness wildlife and landscapes that are truly one-of-a-kind. Although the islands were designated as a wildlife sanctuary and recognized by UNESCO in 1978, they have long served as a refuge for biodiversity. Many of the plants and animals found here are unique to the islands due to centuries of isolation. The giant tortoises, for instance, boast some of the longest lifespans of any animal, living up to 150 years. The marine iguana, another resident, is noted for its vibrant colors and aquatic behaviour. The islands’ unique tides create an environment where tropical species coexist with animals typically found in colder regions, such as penguins and fur seals. An escorted tour of the Galapagos Islands presents the ideal opportunity to explore one of Latin America’s most extraordinarily diverse locations. Snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of Academy Bay alongside turtles and sea lions, and explore the fascinating Charles Darwin Research Centre.
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