Bartholomew Island
The Galapagos Islands, a volcanic archipelago in the eastern Pacific Ocean, were discovered by accident in 1535 by the Bishop of Panama, Fray Tomás de Berlanga. Comprised of 18 main islands, 3 smaller islands, and 107 rocks and islets, this enchanting landscape is known for its diverse wildlife and landscapes, including uninhabited islands. One of these main islands is Santiago Island, located on the west coast of the Galapagos Archipelago. The archipelago was formed by a volcanic hotspot and the continuous shifting of tectonic plates, with some of the initial islands estimated to have emerged at least 8 million years ago.
Originally named “Las Islas Encantadas” or the Enchanted Isles by exiled soldiers, the Galapagos Islands captured the imagination of those who stumbled upon them. The name “Galapagos” comes from the Spanish word “galápago,” which translates to “turtle,” a fitting name for the islands where giant tortoises roam. The nearest land mass to the Galapagos Islands is mainland Ecuador, located 926 km (500 nmi) to the east.
From the beautiful beaches of the southern coast to Volcan Wolf on Isabela, the islands’ loftiest point at 1,707 m (5,600 ft), the Galapagos Islands are home to various endemic species, such as: Giant tortoises, Finches, Flightless cormorants, Galápagos lava lizards and Marine iguanas. These unique species, including sea lions, have piqued the interest of explorers and scientists throughout history, even during challenging times like World War II, helping to shape our understanding of the natural world.
Countless explorers have drawn inspiration from the captivating natural history of the Galapagos Islands. Among them, Charles Darwin holds a special place. His 1835 visit significantly contributed to the formulation of his theory of evolution by natural selection, a cornerstone of modern evolutionary thought.
The Galapagos Islands, located in South America, have also been referred to by various names throughout history, such as the Ecuador Archipelago, Archipelago of the Equator, and Colon or Columbus Archipelago. Today, the islands remain a captivating destination for travelers and scientists alike, a living testament to the power of nature and evolution.
Life on the High Seas: Pirates, Buccaneers, and Whalers
Here’s an interesting fact about the Galapagos Islands history. Long before the Galapagos Islands became known for their role in shaping Darwin’s theory of evolution, they were a haven for pirates, buccaneers, and whalers. These early visitors used the islands as a base and refuge, hunting sperm whales and giant tortoises for meat. Their presence left a lasting impact on the islands, ranging from the decimation of certain species to the establishment of the Barrel Post Office on Floreana Island.Whalers first arrived in the Galapagos in search of sperm whales, a highly prized commodity due to the valuable oil and baleen they provided. As more whaleships discovered the “mother lode” of sperm whales near the islands, the Galapagos became a popular stop for these vessels. Whalers slaughtered thousands of Galápagos tortoises for their fat and to provide fresh protein during their long voyages. This practice significantly reduced the tortoise population and, in some cases, led to the extinction of particular species.
Pirates and buccaneers also left their mark on the islands, introducing numerous species and using the islands as a refuge from the law. They established the Barrel Post Office on Floreana Island in 1812, a unique system of delivering messages in a barrel. Sailors would leave messages in the barrel for others to pick up and deliver to their destination, creating a makeshift postal service that continues to exist today as a tourist attraction.
The presence of these early visitors had both positive and negative effects on the Galapagos Islands. While the hunting of tortoises and the near extinction of fur seals had a detrimental impact on the islands’ ecosystems, the Barrel Post Office and other remnants of pirate and whaler life have added to the islands’ rich and intriguing history.
One notable event that occurred during this era was a fire on Colnett’s Charles Island in October 1820. A whaling ship accidentally set the island ablaze, resulting in nearly the entire island being engulfed in flames. The island remained a blackened wasteland for several years thereafter.
Today, the legacy of pirates, buccaneers, and whalers remains a fascinating part of the history of the Galapagos Islands. Their influence on the islands’ ecosystems and their unique contributions to the islands’ story serve as a reminder of the complex relationship between humans and the natural world.
Charles Darwin’s Pivotal Visit
In 1835, a young naturalist named Charles Darwin arrived in the Galapagos Islands aboard the HMS Beagle. Over five weeks, Darwin explored the islands of:- Floreana
- Santiago
- San Cristobal
- Isabela
The significance of Darwin’s visit to the Galapagos cannot be overstated. His insightful observations during his stay were instrumental in the formulation of his revolutionary theory of evolution by natural selection. Studying the islands’ diverse species, Darwin noticed subtle differences between animals living on different islands, such as the beaks of finches, which appeared to be adapted to their specific environments.
These insights would later form the basis of Darwin’s On the Origin of Species, published in 1859, which established the framework for modern evolutionary thought. The unique environment and wildlife of the Galapagos Islands served as a natural laboratory for Darwin, allowing him to develop his revolutionary ideas about the process of evolution.
The impact of Charles Darwin’s visit to the Galapagos Islands on our comprehension of the natural world is profound and enduring. Presently, the islands still inspire awe and stand as a vivid demonstration of evolution’s potency. They also exemplify the significance of maintaining these distinct ecosystems for the benefit of forthcoming generations.
Settlement Attempts and Challenges
Early settlement attempts in the Galapagos Islands faced numerous challenges, including harsh living conditions, lack of fresh water, and failed colonization efforts. Despite these obstacles, some communities managed to establish a foothold on the islands. The most successful community was established on San Cristobal Island, which had the highest population size until the 1960s.Early settlers introduced various animals to the islands, such as:
- goats
- donkeys
- cattle
- other animals from farms on Floreana Island
Despite facing numerous challenges, the inhabitants of the Galapagos Islands demonstrated resilience, adaptability, and resourcefulness. They harnessed the islands’ natural resources, including agriculture and fishing, to sustain their livelihoods. Today, the majority of the population is situated on the inhabited islands of Santa Cruz and San Cristóbal.
The story of the Galapagos Islands’ early settlements is one of resilience and adaptation in the face of adversity. While the islands’ unique environment presented many challenges to those who sought to make them their home, the thriving communities that exist today are a testament to the enduring spirit of the people who call the Galapagos their home.
The Galapagos National Park and Conservation Efforts
Understanding the paramount importance of conserving the distinct environment and wildlife of the Galapagos Islands, the Ecuadorian government took the decisive step of establishing the Galapagos National Park in 1959. This protected area encompasses almost 97% of the islands’ land area, ensuring the preservation of the islands’ unique ecosystems for future generations.In addition to the establishment of the Galapagos National Park, the Charles Darwin Research Station was inaugurated on January 12th, 1964. Located on Santa Cruz Island, the research station’s primary purpose is to conduct scientific research and provide the research results to the Ecuadorian government for efficient management of the Galápagos.
Conservation programs implemented by research station personnel in the early years focused on eliminating introduced species and safeguarding native species. Today, the Charles Darwin Research Station continues to play a vital role in the ongoing conservation efforts in the Galapagos Islands, working to protect the archipelago’s unique flora and fauna.
One of the most significant conservation achievements in the Galapagos Islands history, is the UNESCO Natural World Heritage Status, conferred upon the islands in 1978, and the Galapagos Marine Reserve in 2001. This designation highlights the exceptional universal value and importance of the islands’ cultural and natural heritage.
The establishment of the Galapagos National Park, the Charles Darwin Research Station, and the UNESCO Natural World Heritage Status all demonstrate the ongoing commitment to preserving the unique environment and wildlife of the Galapagos Islands. Through these efforts, the islands will continue to serve as a living testament to the power of evolution and the importance of protecting our planet’s natural wonders.
Famous Visitors and Their Impact
The Galapagos Islands have historically been a magnet for renowned personalities whose visitations have significantly added to the islands’ fame and charm. One such visitor was American writer Herman Melville, who journeyed to the islands in 1841. Melville later penned a description of his experiences in the Galapagos in his work “The Encantadas,” published in 1854, adding to the islands’ mystique and charm.Another notable visitor to the Galapagos was William Beebe, a renowned explorer and naturalist. Beebe led an expedition to the islands in 1923 and wrote a book about his experiences, further popularizing the islands and their unique natural history.
These famous visitors, along with others such as Bo Derek, Richard Gere, and Prince Charles, have played a role in shaping the world’s perception of the Galapagos Islands. Their writings and experiences have helped to introduce the islands to a wider audience, raising awareness of their unique environment and the ongoing need for conservation efforts to protect them for future generations.
Modern Life in the Galapagos
Today, modern life in the Galapagos Islands revolves around the delicate balance between preserving the islands’ unique flora and fauna and supporting the communities that call them home. For many residents, this means working in industries such as tourism, Galapagos cruises, and fishing, which provide economic opportunities while allowing them to maintain a close connection with the natural environment.The islands’ thriving tourism industry attracts visitors from around the world, drawn by the chance to experience the unique wildlife and landscapes that inspired Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution. To protect the islands’ fragile ecosystems, the Galapagos National Park Service imposes restrictions on the number of people allowed to visit at any one time, with groups limited in size and visiting intervals of two to four hours at each site.
In addition to tourism, fishing plays a significant role in the islands’ economy. The Galapagos Marine Reserve, designated as a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site in 2001, aims to balance the needs of the fishing industry with the need to protect the islands’ unique marine ecosystems.
The people of the Galapagos Islands have adapted to their unique environment, relying on the natural resources of the islands for their livelihoods while working to preserve the archipelago’s extraordinary biodiversity. As the world continues to grapple with the challenges of climate change and habitat loss, the Galapagos Islands serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of living in harmony with our planet’s natural wonders.
UNESCO World Heritage Status
In 1978, the Galapagos Islands were designated as a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site, a testament to their remarkable universal value and the significant cultural and natural importance they hold. This prestigious designation reflects the global significance of the islands’ unique ecosystems, their role in shaping our understanding of evolution, and the ongoing conservation efforts to protect them for future generations.The Galapagos Marine Reserve, which encompasses the waters surrounding the islands, was also designated as a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site in 2001. This recognition highlights the importance of the reserve in protecting the islands’ unique marine ecosystems and the many species that call them home.
The UNESCO World Heritage Status of both the Galapagos Islands and the Galapagos Marine Reserve serves as a powerful reminder of the global importance of these unique environments. The ongoing conservation efforts in the Galapagos, including the work of the Galapagos National Park and the Charles Darwin Research Station, continue to ensure that the islands’ extraordinary biodiversity is preserved for future generations to appreciate and study.
The Ongoing Struggle to Protect the Islands
Despite extensive conservation measures aimed at protecting the Galapagos Islands, addressing the archipelago’s myriad environmental threats remains a persistent challenge. One of the most significant challenges is the impact of introduced species, which have been brought to the islands inadvertently or deliberately by humans.Introduced species, such as feral goats, cats, and cattle, can have devastating effects on the islands’ ecosystems, leading to the decline or extinction of native species, such as the giant tortoise. Invasive plant species, including guava, avocado, and cascarilla, among others, also pose a threat to the islands’ native flora.
Climate change presents another significant challenge for the Galapagos Islands, with rising sea levels, ocean acidification, and changes in ocean currents all having the potential to negatively impact the islands’ unique ecosystems. The effects of climate change on the islands are complex, and ongoing research is needed to better understand and address these challenges.
To combat these threats, various measures have been implemented to safeguard the Galapagos Islands. The Special Law for Galapagos, established in 1998, provides a legal framework for the protection of the islands and their ecosystems. Additionally, international efforts, such as the 2017 “Debt-for-nature swap” between Ecuador and Credit Suisse, have helped to secure funding for conservation initiatives in the Galapagos.
The ongoing struggle to protect the Galapagos Islands highlights the complex challenges faced by conservationists and the global community in preserving our planet’s unique biodiversity. As we continue to learn from the Galapagos and work to safeguard its extraordinary ecosystems, the islands serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of environmental stewardship and our responsibility to protect Earth’s natural wonders for future generations.
Summary
The Galapagos Islands have captivated the imagination of explorers, scientists, and travelers for centuries, offering a unique window into the wonders of the natural world. From their early discovery by the Bishop of Panama to the groundbreaking visit of Charles Darwin, the islands have played a pivotal role in shaping our understanding of evolution and the world around us.Today, the ongoing struggle to protect the Galapagos Islands serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of environmental stewardship and the complex challenges we face in preserving our planet’s unique biodiversity. Through continued conservation efforts, such as the work of the Galapagos National Park and the Charles Darwin Research Station, we can ensure that the extraordinary ecosystems of the Galapagos Islands remain a source of inspiration and knowledge for generations to come.
As we continue to learn from the Galapagos Islands history, and work to safeguard its unique environment and wildlife, let us remember the enduring spirit of exploration and discovery that has defined the islands’ rich history. May the Galapagos Islands continue to serve as a beacon of hope, reminding us of the power of nature, the importance of conservation, and the responsibility we all share in protecting our planet’s most precious treasures.
Introduction To The Archipelago
The natural history of this archipelago is very remarkable: it seems to be a little world within itself.
The natural history of these islands is eminently curious, and well deserves attention.
The different islands to a considerable extent are inhabited by a different set of beings.
I never dreamed that islands, about fifty or sixty miles apart, and most of them in sight of each other, formed of precisely the same rocks, placed under a quite similar climate, rising to a nearly equal height, would have been differently tenanted.
– Charles Darwin
The Galapagos Islands are a trip of a lifetime, Worldwide known for its vast amount of endemic species, with a variety of islands and islets, the archipelago comprises a surreal paradise with white sand beaches, amazing volcanic sceneries & crystal clear waters, come snorkel among sea lions, and walk along Giant tortoises and land Iguanas, the islands are waiting to enchant you!
Amazing Wildlife
One of the main attractions to the islands is the fascinating wildlife that doesn’t cease to amaze its visitors. Environmental fluctuations between terrestrial and marine environments due to its volcanic origins have created the perfect conditions for evolution to blossom. Many species have adapted to the harsh environments and have evolved into a different species all together, while others have barricaded themselves to endemic species unique to the islands.
Marvelous Sealife
Marine life in the Galapagos has set the bar high for what a diving and a snorkeling experience should be like. An abundance of species distinctive to the seas of the archipelago make the islands a coveted destination. Different currents that cross through the islands, such as the Humboldt that brings colder currents, and with it seasonal marine life. Snorkel amidst marine iguanas, the only lizard to forage and live in the sea, and the one and only tropical penguin.
Surreal Volcanic Landscapes & Scenaries
The islands formed in its entirety by volcanic activitiy, continue to form in the north-west part of the archipelago, with the latest volcanic eruption dating back to 2009 in Fernandina. Older islands present a wider diversity in wildlife and more lush thick vegetation, while younger islands display more arid zones and endemic species. As a result the islands recreate surreal scenaries, Fernandina is a clear example where visitors can walk over lava formations and rocky surfaces.
Islands Formation
Fictional Drawing to Recreate Events
Coming from the earths core, the islands once thought to be a wasteland are now conisdered to be a natural laboratory, with millions of year in the making, the islands still have along way to go.
Islands Evolution
Though its not completely clear at what point did the islands start taking their shape, one thing is for sure, the archipelago is in constant evolution, and to some extent they are still in the early phase of their development. While many islands have disappeared over the years, the oldest one being Española, newer ones continue to form in the west part of the archipelago, (Fernandina island with an approximate of 200.000 years) and show great promise in understanding the evolution and origin of the unique animals that occur in the Galapagos.
Volcanic Formations – Million of Years Ago
With the formation of the Galapagos Islands dating back millions of years ago, some scientists even speculate the islands could of been formed in the Cretaceous age, which would be over 90 million years ago, the archipelago boosts a unique location directly over a Hot Spot, as opposed to almost all volcanic areas in the world that are located in its boundary lines (Margins). The islands are thought to be formed in its entirety by Mantle Plumes, (huge columns of rock that rise from deep within the earths core.)
The Galapagos Islands
There is a lot of technicality involving how the islands were formed, and how they have evolved over the years, which is a fascinating yet lengthy topic. In essence the Galapagos consists of 18 main islands, and a little over 100 Islets and rock formations, that have witnessed evolution arguably like no other place in the world. All islands have been formed by volcanic activity, Isabela being a lava welded formation of 6 volcanoes, some of them going extinct, allowing wildlife to blossom (Española & Santa Fe), while other islands display a variety of volcanic sceneries, from small gentle slopes to majestic Calderas (Pit Craters) and incredible rock formations, the islands were and continue to be born from fire.
The Beginnings
Fictional Drawing to Recreate Events
Oficially known as: Archipielago De Colon, the islands first recorded discovery took place in 1535, by the Spaniard Fray Tomas De Berlanga, the 4rth Bishop of Panama. Having been drifted off course on a becalmed sea, the island were unintentionally found.
Tomas De Berlanga – 1535
On a set course to help settle a dispute between Pizarro and his lieutenants in Peru, recently conquered by the aforementioned, his vessel was marooned by the lack of wind, and was led by the seas currents to the accidental discovery of the islands. With no water and the unforgiving scenary displayed by the islands he wrote: most of it is full of very big stones, so much so, that it seems as though some time God had showered stones; and the earth that there is, is like dross, worthless, because it has not the power of raising a little grass, but only some thistles. In his report to the King of Spain, de Berlanga did not refer to the islands by name, but they appear on Ortelius’s 1570 world map as “Insulae de los Galopegos”In reference to the giant tortoises found there.
Spanish Soldiers – 1546
A group of Spanish soldiers were forced to flee South America for been in conflict with the ruthless and barbarous ways of Francisco Pizarro. Drifting to the unknown with no set direction, the wind and currents led them to the Galapagos. With little to no experience or nautical training, they failed on several landing attempts, been pushed out of sight, and thwarted by the swirling currents. They concluded the islands were bewitched (enchanted), drifting through the sea, obfuscating their landing, hence the name, The Enchanted Islands. “Las Islas Encantadas”
Early Beginings
Fictional Drawings to Recreate Events
The early human history of the islands was not kind with its resources, buccaneers and whalers had little regard for the exceptional wildlife and fauna the archipelago held, leading some races of giant tortoises to extinction, and introduced species largely affecting the native flora, its accelerated reproduction remains one of the greatest threat to the Galapagos to this day.
Gerardus Mercator & Abraham Ortelius -1570
The Galapagos made it’s first official appearance on a map approximately in the 1570’s by Gerardus Mercator and Abraham Ortlelius, both recognized cartographers. Having the elusive and bewitched islands in drawing would catapult the islands as an operation base for buccaneers. During the cold war between Great Britain and Spain, from the 1500’s to the 1600’s, the islands served as a haven where buccaneers would repair their vessels, recover and stock up on food. This would be the beginning of the slaughter of the giant tortoises as a food resource.
Ambrose Cowley – 1684
William Ambrose Cowley would be the first one to draw a navigational map of the islands, naming each of the islands mainly after English kings and nobleman that helped his cause, a few examples would be, King Charles (Floreana), King James (Santiago), Duke Albermarle (Isabela) and Admiral Narborough (Fernandina). A few of the islands were also named after some of his fellow buccaneers. Most of these names have been replaced with spanish official names, yet their old english names are still mentioned in current maps and widely used among ecological researchers.
James Colnett – 1793
James Colnet was a British officer for the royal navy, sent to investigate the possibility of whale fishery in the region. Reaching the Galapagos, he led the developing of whaling and the archipelago was set as a base for whalers who had their operation in the pacific ocean. In 1794 a “post office barrel” was set on Floreana, whalers would be away for years, so they would leave their letters in the barrel, and ships heading back to England would have them delivered to port. The barrel may still be seen to this day in Floreana. The islands also represented a source of fresh meat, once they learned the giant tortoises could be kept alive for months without food and water in ships. Whalers had the biggest footprint in the archipelago, the arrival of dozens of ships each year had a devastating effect on the tortoises, over 200,000 were taken, some races quickly became extinct.
David Porter – 1813
Commanding the U.S.S Essex, American Captain David Porter nearly destroyed the British whaling fleet which had set base in the Galapagos, in times when Britain, France and the U.S were at war with each other. Upon reaching the islands he kept a careful chronicle of the events that took place in his log, including the only recorded historic eruption of Floreana. He also noted the distinctive patterns of giant tortoises that originated from different islands, predominantly in the shape of their shells . According to history Porter released several goats to graze near shore when anchored in James Bay, after a few days the goats disappeared deep into the islands, although unintended by Porter, this would be the beginning of goats been deliberately introduced in the islands for the following years as a source of meat. The goats multiplied at an incredible pace reaching numbers over 100,000 on Santiago and other islands, which in return had a devastating effect in the native flora, the main food source for herbivores.
The Evolution Theory
The Galapagos would be changed forever with the visit of Charles Darwin. Seeing the islands for what they truly were and captivated by the distinctive features of animals across different islands would lead him years later to formulate a ground breaking theory of Human Evolution, catapulting the islands to their recognition status as an evolving natural paradise.
H.M.S Beagle – 1831
Charles Robert Darwin, an English naturalist that originally had begun his studies as a medical student, showed an avid interest in Geology, and partook on a 4 year surveying mission under the command of Commander Robert Fitz Roy. The voyage had no financial gain and was rather an opportunity to visit different countries. After 3 years of sailing through the South American coast they reached San Cristobal. The Beagle spent 5 weeks in the Galapagos carefully charting the Archipelago.
Evolution Theory – 1835
Even though he was limited to landing on 4 islands only, (San Cristobal, Floreana, Santiago & Isabela), Darwin made careful observations about the islands geology and biology. One thing that particularly struck him was the difference between the inhabitants of the different islands, which are now known as subspecies. Upon his return to England he published several books about his voyage in the years to follow, but it would be 25 years later, when he had developed enough evidence to support his idea, that his best work would be published.
The Origin of Species – 1859
Darwin’s greatest contribution to science would be what he called: Natural Selection, solving the mystery of why and how evolution occurred. The idea sparked in him by 1839. The essence of his idea was that individuals born with certain characteristics which made them better suited for their environment were the ones most likely to survive and most likely to successfully reproduce. His book: (The Origin of species), was an immediate sensation, and created much debate among the scientific community, the issue was settled within 10 years in favor of evolution and natural selection, Darwin came to be a recognized and eminent scientist, with many species and locations named after him.
The Origin of Species – Extract
Thus, from the war of nature, from famine and death, the most exalted object which we are capable of conceiving, namely, the production of higher animals, directly follows. There is grandeur in this view of life, with its several powers, having been originally breathed by the Creator into a few forms or into one; and that, whilst this planet has gone cycling on according to the fixed law of gravity, from so simple a beginning endless forms most beautiful and most wonderful have been, and are being evolved.
Colonization History
Fictional Drawings to Recreate Events
The Archipelago clearly portrays the complexity of humans throughout the history of colonization in the islands. Colonists originating from different parts of the world provides us with a different prospective of the islands,and adds an interesting layer of history to the enchanted islands.
Patrick Watkins- 1807
The first human settlement that took place in the islands was by an Irishman-Patrick Watkins, marooned in Floreana for about 8 years, His days in the islands went by raising vegetables and trading them with visiting whalers and hunting for a living. According to history, he left the islands by stealing an open boat and navigating to mainland in Guayaquil – Ecuador
Jose De Villamil – 1832
The General First Governer of Galapagos was Jose Villlamil, when the islands became oficiallly annexed by Ecuador. With the creation of a Prision Colony in Floreana primarily used for convicts, followed by political prisioners & common criminals, the settlement became a succesful project that lasted until mids of the twentieth century, due to its remote and desolate location.
Manuel Cobos – 1869
“El Progreso” was a prison colony under the leadership of Manuel Cobos based in San Cristobal. Cobos established a sugar plantation & milling operation that was labored and operated by convicts under harsh and inhumane conditions. The slavery of prisoners eventually led to the mass mutiny and murder of Cobos and his men several years later. The Colony survived and San Cristobal is the governing island in the Archipelago today.
Antonio Gil – 1897
On the opposite side of the Archipelago, Antonio Gil formed two settlements on Isabela Island, Villamil on the coastline, and Santo Tomas 20 km inland on the slopes of the volcano now called Sierra Negra. Coffee plantation, sulfur mining, lime production by burning coral, fishing and cattle ranching were the common affairs of the towns that were founded. The better ways of Gil had no slavery involved, and the founding towns remain to this day.
Europe, America and Ecuador – 1924
Interest for the islands was in part triggered by William’s Beebe, an American naturalist that expeditioned the islands and published his chronicles, further supporting the theory of evolution by Charles Darwin in his booked titled, Galapagos: World’s End. Small waves of Europeans settlers arrived in the islands, the most notorious group were the Norwegians that settled in Floreana, but were quickly disappointed and returned to their homeland, others dispersed to settlements in San Cristobal & Santa Cruz. A few years later other settlers arrive to the islands, all seeking for a simpler life. Originating from Europe, America & Ecuador, among them the four Angermeyer brothers from Germany. These early settlers were provided with free land, the right to fish and hunt freely on all uninhabited islands in compliance with the governing laws of Ecuador at the time.
Floreana – 1930’s
Floreana witnessed events in the island that remained unexplained to this day. Among the first settlements are Dr. Friedrich Ritter and Dore Strauch from Germany, followed by the Wittmer family from Germany as well, and Austrian Baroness Wagner de Bosquet accompanied by her 3 lovers, (Robert Philippson, Rudolf Lorenz, and Felipe Valdiviseo). After the arrival of the self-proclaimed Baroness, tension grew with her presence among the other residents and disputes broke. The Governor of the Galapagos islands arrived to settle the reports of theft among other claims. A series of deaths took place that have been subject to much speculation ever since. The Baroness along with Philipson disappeared to never be found, shortly after Lorenz turned up dead in Marchena, later that year Ritter died of food poisoning, and many other unexplained deaths and disappearances followed, leaving Margaret Wittmer as the only survivor of the early colonist of Floreana
U.S Navy – 1942
During World War II, the U.S Navy was granted permission by the Ecuadorian government to set a Navel Base in Baltra, and a radar station on the north end of Isabela. The islands location provided a way to moniter any approach to the Panama Canal and to patrol the Pacific for enemy submarines. After the war ended, the airbase was given to the Ecuadorian government and eventually transformed into a commercial airport.
Galapagos Today
Charles Darwin Reproduction Center
Celebrating the 100th anniversary of the legacy that Darwin’s Voyage had generated for the Galapagos, a conservation effort was enacted in 1935 by the National Assembly of Ecuador, forming wildlife sanctuaries on some of the islands.
Protective Legislation – 1935
Celebrating the 100th anniversary of the legacy that Darwin’s Voyage had generated for the Galapagos, a conservation effort was enacted in 1935 by the National Assembly of Ecuador, forming wildlife sanctuaries on some of the islands.
Tourism Growth – 1960’s
The Islands world recognition by now would start generating potential revenue for the tourism industry. Puerto Ayora’s town, housing Darwin’s Station would become the center of tourism. In compliance with local laws that forbidded construction in Galapagos national park territory, boats would take over the islands to offer live-aboards throughout the islands. From an average of over 4,000 visitors per year in the early 1970’s, to over 160,000 in recent years.
Galapagos National Park – 1959
The need for effective controls and natural preservation was proposed on several occasions over the years by different characters including the expedition by the UNESCO which pointed out the need of a research station. International funding and cooperation by renown scientists and Ecuadorian conservationists led to the establishment of the Charles Darwin Foundation in 1959. Later that year, in cooperation with the Darwin Foundation, the Ecuadorian Government declares 97% of the Islands, land not already settled by man, part of the Galapagos national park.
Marine Resources – 1986
Fishing activities in the archipelago is an ongoing problem that set restrictions by adding marine life and resources surrounding the islands as part of the Galapagos National Park in 1986. Under the name of: Galapagos Marine Resources Reserve, making it an integral part of the protected areas, and increasing the fishing restricted zone to 40 miles in 1998. Unfortunately there are still those that dont abide to these laws and continue to fish and deplete the unique marine species in the Galapagos.
Locals, Tourists, Introduced Species & Fishery – Today
The Islands have witnessed a massive growth in its population quota over the course of the past years, locals were attracted by the prospect of fishing & farming in the area, some even demanding the right to exploit it. Introduced species are having their toll on the delicate chain of food for animals in the area, and jeopardizing their survival. The strain of human population has placed its weight on the delicate resources of the archipelago. Local regulations have enforced laws in place to prevent the islands from been depleted from the very resources that sustain all locals in the islands, but more then laws – it will be the awareness of the delicate ecosystem the Galapagos represent, and our help by traveling responsibly in the islands, and support to conservation programs that will ensure our future generations will be able to enjoy and see the islands as we see them today.
Exceptional Wildlife
Sea Lions
Part of what makes the islands so special is the unique and amazing wildlife the Archipelago holds. A fragile ecosystem that houses the most extraordinary creatures. Either flying, swimming or floating the animals that reached the islands at some point have evolved over time, and adjusted to the conditions dictated by terrestrial and marine environments. For the most part it could be said that animals in the Galapagos live in harmony, and they are known for being extremely tame, without a care in the world when humans are around.
Land: Reptiles, Birds, Sea Lions & More
Magestic Giant Tortoises found all year round can be spotted in a few islands, including the main ones, (San Cristobal & Santa Cruz), this is certainly a must when you visit the islands. Also found any time of the year is the Galapagos Land Iguana, a distinctive and endemic creature described as ugly by Charles D. The islands are filled with life with the many bird species flying around and found on land, Blue and Red footed boobies, and lets not forget the biggest of all boobies, the Nazca booby. One of the rarest birds in the world – the Flightless Cormorant, the great Flamingo found in lagoons, the proud Frigate birds, the long yellow beaked Albatross, and the amazing and cutest little thing, the Tropical Penguin. Often found in many shores or rocks taking sun are the Galapagos Sea Lions, tame and playful, you will be able to spot them frequently, as they are a healthy species that abound in the islands. To find more details of the many land species in the islands, visit our Multimedia Gallery.
Sea: Mammals, Fish, Marine Iguanas & More
The seas in the islands are wonderful throughout the year, but if you visit the islands the right time of the year, the marine life in the archipelago has in store some great spectacles for you, the magnificent humpback whales will be splashing their way though the islands, Green Sea Turtles and Reef Fishes that are colorful and varied in size and shapes will make snorkeling remarkable, and an experience out of the discovery channel. Marine iguanas are found in the islands for most of the year, this particular species is endemic to the islands, found in no other place, and holds the unique ability of living and foraging in the sea, usually spotted and easily confused with the rocky formations in the Galapagos shores. Groups of Manta Rays that can easily be spotted from panga rides, the amazing hammerhead shark, a bit more difficult to spot, the small white tipped Reef shark, and the amazing whale sharks. To find more details of the many Marine species in the islands, visit our Multimedia Gallery.
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