The cradle of Evolution – The Galapagos Islands

Charles Darwin was one of the first people to step on the Galapagos Islands in 1885. Situated off the coast  of the Ecuadorian Mainlands, Darwin based his Theory of Evolution here. He was amazed at the phenomenal variety of flora and fauna here. That too on such a remote location.

It is, without doubt, the trip of a lifetime.

This archipelago consists of 13 main islands, 5 of which are inhabited. It is a dynamic region, whose topography changes continuously due to volcanic eruptions, the land made of lava fields eroding and expanding. This region has lived in total isolation from the rest of the world for millions of years. The climate is harsh and unforgiving and one can’t help but ponder as how such staggering variety developed in these conditions. It developed an ecosystem completely different from anywhere in the world, fragile and one of it’s kind.

The climate of the Galapagos Islands is tropical and can be visited year round. June to December is considered the best time for sightings of animals and birds in their natural surroundings. These include giant tortoises , Hump back whales, cormorants, Lava lizards , sea lions, land iguana and penguins. The Darwin’s Finches are ones on which Darwin’s theory of the ‘survival of the fittest’ was based on. Most of us have seen these only on Animal Planet !

This UNESCO World Heritage site calls the Galapagos Islands a unique ‘living museum and showcase of evolution’.

The journey around the islands can be done on a number of cruises, the obvious choice for tourists. They suit all budgets and tastes. However, services offered varies with the price of the cruise. For example, on the cheaper cruises, the guide available may be less knowledgeable than the ones on the more expensive ships. He may or may not be able to converse in English. The prices start from a minimum of 395 $ per person for 3 nights and 4 days. There are lots of offers available online. So, if you are seriously considering a trip there, keep checking on the Internet.

There is an option for scuba diving enthusiasts to take an adventure holiday instead of the usual “Animal Planet” tour. They can go scuba diving and explore the exotic underwater creatures.

There is a special Darwin’s 200 year anniversary cruise available this fall (2009), which is definitely something worth going for !