Where Are The Galapagos Islands?

The Galapagos Islands lie off the coast of Ecuador in South America. They are situated about 1000 kilometres from the coast. The park area covers land – a total of 7883 square kilometres – and water – the marine reserve is 79 900 square kilometres.

The Galapagos Archipelago contains 13 major islands and several smaller ones and many small rocky islets. All of the islands have originated from volcanic eruptions and there are still active volcanoes in the area. One recent eruption occurred on the island of Fernandina in 1968.

The area features many volcanic signatures such as crater lakes and fumaroles (holes that give off sulphurous gases). Some of the shore has been eroded by the sea but some has remained virtually untouched and there are still beaches with lava, coral shell and sand.

Some of the larger islands are 1200 metres above sea level and get some rain as the peaks are in the altitudes where clouds form. The smaller and lower islands are usually relatively dry but there are some mangrove forests along the shores.

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