The Galapagos Islands are one of the last animal and nature sanctuaries and have not lost any of their attraction for nature and animal lovers, photographers and film makers, behavioural scientists and vulcanologists, seafarers and adventurers since their discovery by Bishop Tomas de Berlanga in 1535. By far the most famous visitor was the evolutionist, Charles Darwin, in 1835. Although he only spent about 5 weeks during his world trip lasting several years on various islands of the Galapagos archipelago, his short stay afforded him valuable insight for his revolutionary theory of evolution. Even today the islands with their highly diverse animal and plant kingdoms are still closely linked to the name of Charles Darwin. The archipelago belongs to Ecuador and is located in the East Pacific on the Equator, just under 1,000 km from the South American mainland. The giant tortoise, the heraldic animal of the Galapagos Island, boasts more than 14 sub-species, some of which are already extinct. These land tortoises vary considerably when it comes to the form of their shell and they can be attributed to one island or one volcano. The most famous giant tortoise, the last surviving member of its species, comes from the island Pinta and is called “Lonesome George”.

This travel guide provides information on the main islands and the animal kingdom on the Galapagos archipelago. An array of fascinating impressions introduce the reader to the intriguing world of the Galapagos Islands. The photos were taken by the German journalist Oliver Schwartz.

Several Internet links and book recommendations are given for anyone interested in finding out more about the Galapagos or in the process of preparing a trip. One thing is sure: a trip to the Galapagos Islands is a unique experience, a memory visitors will treasure forever. However, this paradise can only be preserved if people show the necessary respect and engage in a controlled, gentle form of tourism.