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Bucket List Galapagos Islands
E
ight days, seven nights, five islands, one ship, and thousands of birds, reptiles, and animals all add up to a trip of a lifetime in the Galapagos
Islands. Located 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, the archipelago of 19 islands and smaller islets long has intrigued naturalists and scientists — including Charles Darwin, who based his theory of evolution on his find- ings there. Now tourists have the same opportunity to explore and learn as Darwin did so long ago. Many species and subspecies here, including the Galapagos tortoise (above, right), Darwin’s finches, waved albatross (above, center), flightless cormorant, Galapagos penguin, Galapagos hawk, and marine igua- nas (above, left), are found nowhere else in the world. Some visitors choose to travel from island to island on small boats in order to explore and see as much as possible. By law, every visitor must be accompanied by a park naturalist to serve as a guide and ensure the integrity of the islands. A limited number of tour-
26 MILITARY OFFICER JANUARY 2017
ists can visit each island on a daily basis for a specific amount of time, making a cruise or land-based out- fitter necessary. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978, the Galapagos Islands still retain much of their origi- nal biodiversity. Each small boat landing provides an opportunity to learn about new animals and new ecosystems, including desert, forest, and barren lava- encrusted earth. Animals there lack an instinctual fear of humans, since they developed apart from us and our dominating influence. This means animal-lovers, bird- watchers, and photographers have the opportunity to see these unique creatures up close. Should you choose a cruise option, several companies offer deep-water and beach snorkeling excursions, along with daily nature programs. Accommodations typically are spacious, and the food can be excellent. Because the num- ber of passengers is small, guests have the opportunity to make lasting friendships with like-minded passengers. — Marilyn Jones
PHOTOS: SHUTTERSTOCK
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