"The islands lie in the Pacific Ocean about 1,000 km from the South American coast and straddle the Equator. There are 13 large islands, 6 smaller ones and 107 islets and rocks, with a total land area of about 8,000 square kilometres. The islands are volcanic in origin and several volcanos to the west of the archipelago are still very active.

"Galapagos is a province of the Republic of Ecuador and five of the islands are inhabited with a total population of around 15,000. The capital is Puerto Baquerizo Moreno on San Cristobal Island, although the largest town is Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz.	Photo from ArtToday
Photo from ArtToday	"At each visitors' site a marked trail provides excellent views of the wildlife, vegetation and landscape of Galapagos. Most trails are less than a mile long but some can be difficult underfoot, leading over rough lava or uneven boulders. There are also one or two longer hikes in the highlands. The different sites are amazingly varied in their scenery and vegetation, and the many good snorkelling spots offer the chance to see the varied underwater life of Galapagos.
"The plants of Galapagos are equally fascinating. In the highlands are many species of endemic Scalesia ('tree daisies') as well as tree ferns, bromeliads and orchids. Around the coasts are giant prickly pear and candelabra cacti while tiny Brachycereus cacti grow on barren lava flows. On the shores can be found vivid morning glories and mats of bright red sesuvium. Galapagos also has its very own, endemic species of cotton, tomato, pepper, guava and passion flower."	Photo from ArtToday

All quotes thanks to Galapagos Conservation Trust

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