Why is the Galapagos islands a world heritage?

TheGalapagos Island Description is one of the most important destinations for tourist from different places around the world. The Islands are one of the most important natural paradises in the world. This is why they were declared Natural Heritage in 1978 by the UNESCO.

Today, the Galapagos Islands attract the interest not only of scientists but of thousands of tourists interested in watching and enjoying the unique flora and fauna the islands are home of, especially endemic species than anywhere else in the world can be admired. So, the Nemo Galapagos fleet offers different itineraries in their Galapagos cruises for tourists who want to know the beauty of this islands.

Here, I will explain you some reasons why the archipelago was named by UNESCO a natural heritage and some rules and regulations for visitors to preserve the islands.

Geological formation

The Galapagos Islands are volcanic in origin and were formed 3-5 million years ago. These volcanoes formed under the sea, made their way across the sea floor, grew in size and eventually emerged, rising to the water surface to become islands. Each island is a volcano formed only with the exception of Isabela Island, a lava welded attachment of six volcanoes.

This simple feature in the geology of Galapagos is responsible for the magnificent development of the fauna and flora of the Galapagos Islands that have unique species such as the the giant tortoise and many species of finches, which at the time inspired Darwin’s theory of evolution by natural selection, after his trip to the islands in 1835.

Great variety of endemic species

The Galapagos Islands have a lot of endemic and unique species that were studied t the time by Charles Darwin,the famous English nuturist. This studies make him develop his well-knowntheory of evolution by natural selection. Since then, the islands have gained worldwide fame because of the uniqueness of its wildlife, especially turtles known as “Galapagos giant turtles”. When taking any itinerary you will have the opportunity to see of this incredible species which are unique.

Endangered species

The local animals and species you find on board Galapagos cruises are suffering a serious danger, since they are threatened by the destruction and degradation of their habitat and also as a consequence of the many species of wildlife that people have introduced voluntarily or involuntarily, to the islands.

An example of some endangered species in Galapagos was the male tortoise known as “Lonely George”, with at least 105 years old. George was the last tortoise of the Pinta Island and the last specimen of the Geochelone abingdoni.

What should visitors do to preserve the Islands?

When you visit the island on any of our cruises you need to know some of the regulations and rules of the Galapagos National Park for visitors in order to preserve the flora and fauna from the islands. Some of the rules are:

• You cannot touch the animals or get too close.
• You should avoid using plastic bags. This is part of a recent campaign the Galapagos Islands have joined recently in order to reduce the pollution.
• You cannot litter the islands. Remember that as these islands are a natural heritage it is our duty to preserve.
• You cannot smoke in the islands because it can cause uncontrollable bushfires and damage the islands.
• You cannot take away anything from the islands. The Galapagos archipelago have unique flora and fauna so nothing in here should change. The only thing you can take from here are pictures.

Book your place in our Galapagos cruises!

The Galapagos cruises are the best option to visit  the Islands why are places full of beauty, unique flora and fauna and great history! So, if you want to see these animals up close and enjoy the enchanted Galapagos Islands we will help in our tour itineraries.  You won’t regret it, it is a life experience you need to life!

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