Galapagos Islands: Viewing Vacation Ideas for Viewing Wildlife

Galapagos Islands: Viewing Vacation Ideas for Viewing Wildlife

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The Galapagos Islands are located off the coast of Ecuador in the South Pacific Ocean. This is one of the most beautiful places in the world. Pristine beaches stand in stark contrast to a blackened landscape formed by volcanic eruptions and lava deposits over thousands of years. Visitors encounter rare wildlife in a natural setting unlike any other. You will find the famous giant sea tortoises as well as sea-lions, flamingos, and iguanas. The stunning variety of wild animals and the lack of human contamination and development make this a great destination for ecotourists.

Cerro Brujo

Cerro Brujo is one of the most beautiful beaches of the Galapagos Islands. White sand and volcanic rocks make for a scenic backdrop. This part of the island is inhabited by a colony of sea-lions. There are also flocks of the rare blue-footed booby, a unique seabird. Hike around the lagoon at Cerro Brujo and you are likely to see Great Blue Herons and Egrets in their natural habitat. Snorkeling is another fun activity here, with myriad sea creatures living below the turquoise waters off shore.

El Chato Tortoise Reserve

The Galapagos Islands are known for the giant sea tortoises that live there. El Chato Tortoise Reserve is the perfect place to visit if you want to see giant tortoises in the wild. Many other wild animals described in the books of Charles Darwin can also be found here. Look for short-eared owls, finches, and other exotic birds such as the yellow warbler and paint-billed crake.

Puerto Egas

The black lava beach of Puerto Egas is one of the most interesting destinations in the Galapagos. Ancient caves and inlets formed by lava are now home to a diverse range of wildlife. Hike along the shore in search of marine iguanas and sea-lions. There are also hundreds of crabs scuttling along the beach, and this attracts hunting herons to the area. Slightly inland is the Sugarloaf Volcano. A 1-mile trail takes you to up near the summit of the volcano for panoramic views of Puerto Egas. You will find lava lizards, finches, and feral goats along the way as you trek through this charred landscape.

Article Written By David Thyberg

David Thyberg began his writing career in 2007. He is a professional writer, editor and translator. Thyberg has been published in various newspapers, websites and magazines. He enjoys writing about social issues, travel, music and sports. Thyberg holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Pittsburgh Honors College with a certificate in Spanish and Latin American studies.

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