Straddling the Equator 1000km (622 miles) off the coast of Ecuador, the Galapagos Islands are famous for being the inspiration for Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution. There are 13 large islands and six small, which were formed by oceanic volcanoes some three to five million years ago. Visitors come to the islands to see the unparalleled variety of wildlife that flourishes due to the remote location and temperate climate. The most famous residents are the giant tortoises after whom the islands are named, although other common species include iguana, dolphins, boobies and cormorants. The animals are so used to human company visitors can even swim with penguins and sea lions. Snorkelling and sailing are also popular.

Galapagos National Park Service, Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz, Galapagos, Ecuador
Tel: (05) 526 189 or 526 511 or 527 410
or
Galapagos Chamber of Tourism, Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz, Galapagos, Ecuador
Tel: (05) 526 206
Website: www.galapagostour.org

Air: Baltra Airport.

Ministerio de Turismo (Ministry of Tourism)
Avenida Eloy Alfaro N32-300 and Carlos Tobar, Quito, Ecuador
Tel: (02) 250 7555/9. Fax: (02) 250 7565. E-mail: mtur1@ec-gov.net
Website: www.vivecuador.com
Embassy of the Republic of Ecuador
Flat 3B, 3 Hans Crescent, London SW1X 0LS, UK
Tel: (020) 7584 1367. Fax: (020) 7823 9701.
E-mail: embajada@ecuador.freeserve.co.uk

Ecuador