The Galapagos Islands

The Galapagos Islands, a remote volcanic archipelago in the Pacific some 1,000 kilometres off the coast of Ecuador, are one of the greatest wildlife destinations on earth, a living laboratory of evolution whose unique, fearless creatures inspired Charles Darwin's theory of natural selection. A UNESCO wonder, its islands teem with animals found nowhere else, from giant tortoises and marine iguanas to blue-footed boobies, sea lions and penguins, all so unafraid of humans that they can be observed at astonishingly close range.

The landscape

• The giant tortoises - the iconic tortoises the islands are named for.
• The marine iguanas and boobies - the unique birds and reptiles.
• Snorkelling - swimming with sea lions, turtles and rays.
• The fearless wildlife - the animals seen at astonishingly close range.

When to go

Year-round, as the wildlife is spectacular in every season; the warm, wetter season from December to May brings calmer seas and warmer water, while the cool, drier season from June to December brings more active seas, richer marine life and different bird behaviour.

Before you go

It is remote and expensive, reached only by flight and best explored on a live-aboard cruise or from an island base with day trips, so it is a major, costly trip. Access is strictly controlled to protect the fragile ecosystem, with set itineraries, guides and rules. It is a bucket-list wildlife experience without equal, but demands planning and budget.

Nearby

Mainland Ecuador, with Quito and the Andes, is a flight away.