Four Worlds of Ecuador

Leading the Climate Conversation

Presented by:

Ministerio de Turismo

TAKE A VOYAGE OF DISCOVERY

Six hundred miles from the Ecuadorian coast, these remote volcanic islands rose from the sea millions of years ago. Spanish explorers discovered them in 1535, and the waters surrounding the islands once sheltered pirates and buccaneers.

Yet the real riches of the Galápagos archipelago have always been its remarkable species, found nowhere else on the planet. Giant tortoises that weigh up to 500 pounds and live as long as 150 years; marine iguanas that cluster sunning themselves on lava rocks; and gentle red-footed, blue-footed, and masked boobies are all part of the enchanting strangeness of this pristine land.

The undersea world is equally impressive. The Galápagos Marine Reserve encompasses some 50,000 square miles where swimmers, snorkelers, and scuba divers may encounter manta rays, swordfish, marine turtles, sea lions, penguins, and more. A haven for birders as well, the islands are populated with flamingoes, albatrosses, pelicans, cormorants, and other winged species.

ORIGIN OF SPECIES

The Galápagos gained renown after British naturalist Charles Darwin arrived in 1835 and made a study of four of the islands. He observed that each had a unique character, and found that mockingbirds and tortoises differed from island to island. These facts helped him to develop his theory of natural selection through evolution, articulated in his landmark work, The Origin of Species.

Cruise ships and sailboats are the best way to experience the islands. Santa Cruz has the largest town, Puerto Ayora, which is home to most of the region's hotels and restaurants. From here, fortunate Galápagos travelers embark on their own voyages of discovery.