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Fernandina

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Fernandina, Galapagos
West Islands

Overview

Fernandina Island, the third-largest yet one of the youngest islands in the Galapagos Archipelago, is celebrated for its untouched natural splendor and dynamic volcanic terrain. Spanning 642 square kilometers and reaching a peak altitude of 1,476 meters, this island stands out in the Galapagos for its lack of human habitation, which has helped maintain its pristine and unaltered state. The island's rich biodiversity, combined with its geological youth and active volcanoes, including the prominent La Cumbre, offers a unique and compelling landscape. This combination of ecological integrity and geological activity makes Fernandina a fascinating destination for scientists and tourists alike.
 

Geological and Historical Significance

Geologically, Fernandina is a hotspot of volcanic activity and is the most volcanically active island in the archipelago. La Cumbre Volcano, a shield volcano like those in Hawaii, features a vast summit caldera approximately 6.5 kilometers wide. The island has experienced several eruptions, the most recent ones being in 2005 and 2009. Historically, it first appeared on maps in 1684 and has undergone various name changes, initially named Narborough Island and later Fernandina in honor of King Fernando of Spain.
 

Unique Wildlife and Conservation

Fernandina's ecosystem is exceptionally rich, hosting unique species like the Flightless Cormorant, Galapagos Penguins, and the largest, darkest-colored Marine Iguanas in the archipelago. Conservation efforts are crucial, as Fernandina houses endemic species like rice rats and has never introduced mammals, unlike other islands.
 

Visitor Experience and Points of Interest

Tourists can explore Punta Espinosa, the only visitor site on Fernandina, offering walks around a small peninsula and inland towards a large aa lava flow. This site is home to Marine Iguanas, Flightless Cormorants, Galapagos Penguins, and occasionally, Galapagos Hawks and Land Iguanas. Other visitor activities include snorkeling and diving, with opportunities to observe sea turtles, sharks, rays, and various fish species.
 

Access and Transportation

Accessible only by boat, most visitors arrive at Fernandina via Galapagos cruises that cover the western islands. Not all cruises include Fernandina in their itinerary, so it's crucial to check beforehand.
 
Environmental Challenges and Habitat
The island's volcanic nature has shaped its environment, leaving it with sparse vegetation that primarily consists of cacti and mangroves. This rugged terrain, along with the cold Cromwell Current, creates a unique habitat for its diverse wildlife.
 

The Promise of Discovery

Fernandina continues to surprise with recent discoveries like the rediscovery of a subspecies of Galapagos Giant Tortoise thought extinct for over a century.
 

Conclusion

Fernandina Island stands as a testament to nature's resilience and adaptability. Its volcanic landscapes, unique wildlife, and commitment to conservation make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Galapagos Islands.

Fast Facts about Fernandina

Location: Western Galapagos
Extent of Island: 642 sq Kilometers / 247.90 Miles
Highest Point: 1,476 Meters / 4,842 Feet
Highlights: Youngest Island, No Introduced Species, Highly Volcanic

Visit Points

Punta Espinoza

Punta Espinoza is a narrow ledge...[read more]

Interaction In Site: Hiking

Punta Mangle

Mangle Point is located in the...[read more]

Interaction In Site: Snorkeling, Dinghy Ride

Cabo Douglas

Cabo (Cape) Douglas dive site is...[read more]

Interaction In Site: Diving


Animals

Galápagos Sea Lion

The Galapagos sea lion is a...[read more]

Blue-Footed Booby

The Blue-footed Booby is a medium-size...[read more]

Flightless Cormorant

The flightless cormorant is an endemic...[read more]

Galápagos Hawk

The Galapago Hawk is an endemic...[read more]


Green Sea Turtle

A sea turtle species that inhabit...[read more]

Marine Iguana

The Galapagos Marine Iguana is the...[read more]

Galápagos Penguin

The Galapagos Penguin in the only...[read more]


*Visit point inclusion is subject to cruise programs and logistics. These are regulated by the galapagos national park.