The Galapagos ranks as one of the most important sites in the Western Hemisphere in regards to biodiversity and scientific research.  As such, the Ecuadorian government is one of the first countries to include environmental legislation in the form of a constitutional amendment.

The Special Law for the Galapagos is a landmark piece of legislation which has far-reaching and unprecedented language to protect biodiversity and foster a culture of conservation.  The law aims to promote conservation of biodiversity and sustainable development of the Providence of Galapagos. The legislation recognizes not only the biological framework necessary to protect Galapagos, but also the intellectual and sociological aspects.

The principal goal of this piece of legislation is to create a harmonious existence between people and the unique flora and fauna of the Galapagos Islands. So enjoy the lush scenery, plants and animals that await you because they are heavily treasured and guarded in these pristine Islands!

Set along the equator, about 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, the Galapagos are often referred to as the “enchanted islands.”  The skies are almost always sunny, the ocean is an inviting turquoise and the long sand beaches come in shades of crystal white, deep pink, volcanic black and glass-looking green. But, what make the Galapagos truly exceptional are the many opportunities for close-up encounters with wildlife. This could mean snorkeling with playful sea lions, tracking giant tortoises or meandering down the coast with indifferent iguanas.

In short, the Galapagos are still one of the most unspoiled areas remaining on the planet. The Islands have an international reputation for their extraordinary natural beauty, wildlife found nowhere else on earth and unparalleled contribution to the scientific world.

Bienvenidos, or welcome, to our series of posts on South America. Take a break from the daily grind and join us over the next two weeks as we introduce you to the people, landscapes, architecture and animal life of South America.

During our series you’ll cruise the Galapagos Islands seeing topical birds, sea lions, iguanas and fauna found nowhere else in the world.  You’ll walk along the cobblestone streets of the capital city of Quito to shop for handicrafts. And, finally you’ll learn about the must-see sights and undiscovered gems of Ecuador. Your South American journey is just starting…

While “express” may not be the most fitting word, Post Office Bay on the volcanic island of Floreana (also known as Isla Santa Maria) has had its own special mail system since 1793. In the 18th century, whalers and Galapagos residents used to leave their mail inside the wooden barrel, waiting for a captain of any boat headed to where the mail was addressed to deliver it. In the vast and remote Pacific Ocean, this was the only official way to communicate with relatives, friends and governments. As a result, Post Office Bay soon became a mandatory stop to all sailors in Galapagos waters. This was indeed a useful service, free of cost, and gave everyone a chance to communicate while in Pacific waters. Read the rest of this entry »

The Galapagos is home to some of the highest levels of endemism on the planet. (Side note: Endemism is a descriptor for species that is unique to a specific area; this is different from indigenous species which can be native in multiple areas). About 80 percent of the land birds, 97 percent of the reptiles and more than 20 percent of the marine species are found literally nowhere else on earth. Among the endemic sea birds are a flightless cormorant, two species of gull and the only penguin species that lives in tropical waters. Read the rest of this entry »