Discover the 6 best islands in the Galapagos for the ultimate island getaway.
The Galapagos Islands are a thriving volcanic archipelago located in the Pacific Ocean. The islands are located near the coast of Ecuador 1,000km off its coast and are considered one of the best places on earth for wildlife viewing. The Galapagos are home to many species of plants and animals that can’t be found anywhere else on earth. In fact, Charles Darwin visited the Galapagos which inspired his theory of evolution.
Here are the 6 best islands in the Galapagos to visit.
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6 Best Islands in the Galapagos
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Santa Cruz Island
- Population: 12,000
Santa Crus is the second-largest island in the Galapagos situated in the middle of the archipelago. It is an island characterized by its volcanic activity that has long since ceased. The volcanic activity resulted in much of the land being full of volcanic cones, uplifted lava flows and tuffs. In addition to its unique volcanic landscape, it is the only island with six different vegetation zones.
Santa Cruz is the perfect place to discover pit craters, cacti, ferns, Scalesia Forest and more. You can also admire the wide range of wildlife like giant tortoises birds and marine iguanas. This is one of the best islands to visit for a longer stay as it is home to the largest home in the Galapagos: Puerto Ayora.
Isla Isabela Island
- Population: 2,200 residents
Isabela Island is the largest of the islands in the Galapagos and was formed by the joining of 5 volcanos. As a result, the landscape is largely made up of lava fields but it also some other regions with unique vegetation. Despite its large size, this island is only home to 2,200 residents who make their living from fishing, farming and tourism. This is the perfect place to escape to where nature, wildlife and natural beauty thrive.
As one of the most volcanically active places on earth visiting here is both thrilling and beautiful. The perfect combination for anyone seeking to visit a unique place full of adventure.
Santa Fe Island
- Population: 7,000
Santa Fe Island is a small and flat island well worth a visit. It may be one of the oldest islands in the Galapagos with evidence of it dating back to 4 million years ago. This island offers something for everyone with its bright blue waters, cacti, unique wildlife and picturesque landscapes. Visiting Santa Fe is also ideal for viewing sea lions and sharks around the coast!
Bartolome Island
- Population: 0
Bartolome Island is home to some of the most picturesque and awe-inducing volcanic landscapes of all islands in the Galapagos. This unpopulated island is located in the center of the Galapagos and is one of the most popular islands to visit for many reasons. The landscapes, wildlife and views and unmatched. With the highest peak on the island giving sight to over 10 small islands surrounding it!
It is the ideal place to visit for sightseeing, snorkelling, wildlife viewing and more!
Genovesa Island
- Population: 0
Genovesa Island is named after the Italian city of Genoa and was named in honour of the world-famous explorer Christopher Columbus. It is one of the most volcanic islands in the Galapagos known for its aqua-blue waters, and deep pools and caves carved out by the lava. There is an abundance of species of birds and other animals to admire here, plus a very unique landscape to discover.
Española Island
- Population: 0
Española Island is one of the oldest islands in the Galapagos and is a must-see while touring these islands. It is home to some of the best attractions within the Galapagos including Suarez Point and Gardner Point. Here you will find a variety of sea birds including huge colonies of boobies and the famous Soplador’ blowhole.
These 6 islands in the Galapagos all offer something unique and different to its visitors. For those seeking an adventure, only a few get to embark on, a visit to the Galapagos is in order.
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Love,
SSW
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