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As one of the most fascinating and biologically diverse regions in the world, the list of "interesting facts" about the Galapagos Islands would fill a book – and in fact the archipelago has been the subject of many. For anyone intending to visit the region who may not have the time or energy to dedicate to any in-depth research before their Galapagos holidays, these fast facts can offer a valuable introductory insight. Fast Facts for Galapagos Holidays • The islands are situated around 1000km off the coast of mainland Ecuador and are distributed on either side of the Equator. • The archipelago comprises 13 main islands, 6 smaller ones and in excess of 40 islets. The capital is Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, on San Cristobal. • They are also known as the "Enchanted Islands", reportedly stemming from the mist and fog observed by Tomas de Berlanga, the archbishop of Panama who discovered the archipelago. • The islands are estimated to be between 3-10 million years old and are located on the Nazca tectonic plate at the juncture with the Pacific and Cocos plates. Because of the constant volcanic activity, the eastern islands are at least a couple of million years older than the western ones. • The area is still volcanically active, with at least 13 eruptions occurring in the past century. The most recent activity was in May 2015. • The Galapagos Islands were the main source of research and inspiration for Charles Darwin's ground-breaking Theory of Evolution. • The archipelago is home to some of the most unique animals on Earth including the northern hemisphere's only penguin, the world's only marine lizard, the world's largest cormorant (which can't fly), the only gulls that feed at night; and a 30cm-long endemic centipede. • The islands cover an area of approximately 8,000 km2 with 1,350kms of coastline. The highest point is 1,707m on Wolf Volcano, Isabela Island. • Galapagos was declared the first UNESCO World Heritage site, in 1978. The Marine Reserve received World Heritage designation in 1998. • While 97% of the islands are part of the National Park, there are around 25,000 local inhabitants living in small, scattered pockets of communities in the other 3% of the region. • The vast diversity of marine life is due to the presence of converging currents – the Humboldt, Panama, Equatorial and Cromwell – which affords a varied habitat able to support a range of species. • There are really only two seasons: the warm season from December to May and the dry season from June to November. Despite the proximity to the Equator, temperatures only vary between 21°-29°C. • Of the resident wildlife, half the terrestrial and a fifth of the marine species are endemic. There are only three species of snakes, all of which are endemic. Around 50% of vertebrates and 25% of the islands' plant species are considered endangered – in the most part due to early human activity (from pirates and sailors). • The lava tunnels on Santa Cruz, parts of which are open to visitors, allow an intriguing glimpse into how the islands were formed. Memorable Galapagos Holidays For nature lovers looking to get the most out of this incredible region, booking a place on one of the professionally organised, small group Galapagos holidays is the most fulfilling and responsible way in which to do it. Along with an experienced local naturalist guide, participants are introduced to the most important sites of the region, along with numerous other locations rarely experienced by tours using larger vessels. Marissa Ellis-Snow is a freelance nature writer with a special interest in the unique wildlife of the Galapagos Islands. Marissa chooses the expert-led Galapagos holidays organised by Naturetrek, which have brought her unforgettable sightings of a wide range of wildlife in one of the most spectacular regions on Earth.
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