The basics: The Galapagos Islands are an archipelago located 600 miles off the Pacific coast of South America, they are part of the country of Ecuador.

They are situated on the Equator line, some Islands on the northern hemisphere, most Islands on the Southern hemisphere.

What type of a travel destination is Galapagos?

It is a nature travel destination, if you like animals, specially birdlife you are comming to the right place. There are many reasons to visit, but the general tourist comes to see the wildlife, the animals are unique, not found anywhere else on the planet and they do not fear humans. It is easy to get close to marine iguanas, sea lions, penguins at the Equator, giant tortoises, blue footed boobies and more... The Galapagos Island are also a marine sanctuary and are one of the best dive destinations on the planet, whale sharks, manta rays, hammer heads (schools of 700 individuals), sea turtles and many other species fish are easily encountered on dive trips.