Interesting facts about the Galápagos Islands

Renowned for its rich biodiversity, unique species, and stunning natural landscapes, the Galápagos Islands are located in the eastern Pacific Ocean and are part of Ecuador, South America. This remarkable archipelago boasts a one-of-a-kind ecosystem, comprising thirteen major islands along with numerous smaller ones. In this guide, we explore ten fascinating facts about the Galápagos Islands that highlight its incredible natural wonders.

The first recorded visitor to the Galápagos was Fray Tomás de Berlang, a Spanish noble and the fourth Bishop of Panama. In 1535, Tomás de Berlanga’s ship drifted off course when sailing from Panama to Peru which led to the accidental discovery of the Galápagos Islands. In his writings, Tomás de Berlanga described the islands as "enchanted," shrouded in mist with the tide rising around them, giving them an otherworldly appearance. Yet, he also painted a bleak picture, calling the islands "hideous" and barren, inhabited only by seals, giant tortoises, and serpent-like iguanas. Despite his initial unfavourable impression of the islands, Tomás de Berlanga’s discovery sparked widespread curiosity and drew growing interest from explorers. Over time, as more ventured to the Galápagos, the islands unveiled even more of their extraordinary wonders.

The Galápagos Islands hold a truly unique geographical distinction, straddling both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres as they sit directly on the equator. This rare positioning not only enhances their ecological diversity but also creates a fascinating mix of climates and wildlife habitats. Visitors can experience the best of both hemispheres, with the island's diverse flora and fauna thriving in this remarkable intersection of the world. 

The Galápagos Islands played a pivotal role in shaping Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution by natural selection. In 1835, Darwin conducted an in-depth study of the islands' unique wildlife, marvelling at the distinct populations of plants, birds, and reptiles that had evolved in isolation from the mainland. He was particularly intrigued by how species varied from one island to the next, despite the islands' proximity, offering profound insights into the process of adaptation and evolution.

One of the most iconic inhabitants of the Galápagos Islands is the giant tortoise, celebrated for its immense size and remarkable longevity. The largest tortoise on record measured over five feet in length and weighed an astounding 920 pounds. These gentle giants thrive on a diet of grasses, fruits, and cactus pads and possess an extraordinary ability to survive up to a year without food or water. Of the various species of Galápagos giant tortoises still living today, six are critically endangered, three are endangered, and three are considered vulnerable. Ongoing conservation efforts are in place to protect these magnificent creatures and ensure their survival for future generations.

Another remarkable resident of the Galápagos Islands is the Galápagos penguin, the smallest penguin species in the world and the only one to breed north of the equator. Endemic to the islands, these unique birds face significant challenges, including pollution, bycatch, and the effects of climate change, which have led to their endangered status. Despite these threats, they remain an iconic symbol of the Galápagos' extraordinary biodiversity.

An impressive 9,000 species call the Galápagos Islands and surrounding waters home, with many of them being endemic—found nowhere else on Earth. This rich biodiversity makes the Galápagos a truly unique and extraordinary natural habitat. There are at least 56 species of birds including Darwin’s finches, Galápagos penguins, boobies, pelicans and more. The waters surrounding the Galápagos are teeming with marine life, including whales, dolphins, and playful sea lions. On land, you'll find an array of fascinating reptiles such as land iguanas, lava lizards, geckos, and snakes.

The Galápagos Islands boast some of the highest levels of endemism on the planet, with an extraordinary array of wildlife found nowhere else on Earth. An impressive 42% of plant species, 97% of mammals, 80% of birds, over 95% of reptiles, 56% of insects, and more than 20% of marine species are unique to this remarkable archipelago.

Since the equator runs directly through Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands, these regions experience a unique, consistent rhythm of day and night. Throughout the entire year, the islands enjoy 12 hours of daylight and 12 hours of darkness, offering a balanced cycle that remains unchanged regardless of the season. This even split between day and night adds to the distinct character of the Galápagos, creating ideal conditions for its wildlife and a predictable routine for those exploring the islands' natural wonders. 

Often referred to as the "Laboratory of Evolution," the Galápagos Islands are renowned for their extraordinary wildlife and untouched natural beauty. The species that inhabit these islands have evolved incredible, unique traits to adapt and thrive in the challenging environment, offering a living testament to nature's power of evolution. This pristine archipelago remains one of the most important and fascinating places on Earth for studying biodiversity and natural selection.

During the 1500s to 1800s, the Galápagos Islands were a favoured hideout for pirates, who took advantage of the islands' remote location and rugged landscapes to evade authorities, seek refuge and restock on water and supplies. Some speculate that gold stolen from Spanish Galleons is still hidden on the islands.