Size
There are 13 main islands and 6 smaller islands that make up the Galapagos Islands. They cover an area of around 19,000 square miles in the ocean.
Galapagos Giant Tortoise
The Giant Tortoise is one of the most famous residents of the Galapagos. The Giant Tortoise grows up to 5 feet and can live for around 150 years.
Species
As well as being home to the Giant Tortoise, the Galapagos Islands are also inhabited by marine iguanas, sea lions and several species of birds. The Galapagos Islands are one of the only places on Earth where the species of wildlife have no fear of human contact and will approach visitors.
Getting There
Traveling to the Galapagos Islands can be quite expensive, as the only way to get there from the mainland is by plane or boat. Once there, however, you can island hop by boat for as little as $25.
Geography
Located in the eastern Pacific Ocean, the closest mainland to the Galapagos Islands is Ecuador, about 450 miles away. The islands are located above the Galapagos Hotspot, a place where the Earth's crust is melting, which creates the volcanic landscape.
