Galapagos Islands, Fernandina Island, Pinta Island, Marchena Island, Baltra Island

Galapagos, Fernandina, Pinta, Marchena, Baltra

Fernandina Island

At 642 sq km, Fernandina called Narborough, is the third-largest island and the western most and youngest of the main islands. The recently formed volcanic landscapes are most impressive. Many eruptions have been recorded since 1813, the most recent being in 1995. This is the island on which you are most likely to see a volcanic erupcion.

There is one visitor site at Punta Espinosa, just across from Tagus Cove on Isabela. The point is known for one of the greatest concentrations of the endemic marine iguanas, which are found by the thousands. Also, flightless cormorants, Galapagos penguins and sea lions are common here.

Pinta Island

Is the original home of Lonesome George, the last known survivor of a species of giant tortoise that once thrived on the island. Pinta is the ninth-largest of the Galapagos Islands and is further north than any of the bigger islands. There are landing sites, but the island has no visitor sites and researchers a permit to visit.

Marchena Island

Is also know as Blindoe. At 130 sq Km, this is the seventh-largest island in the archipelago and the largest one to have no offical visitor sites. There are some good scuba diving sotes, however, so you may get to see the island up close if you are on a dive trip.

Baltra Island

Is a small island off the north coast of Santa Cruz. It has an area of 27sq km. Nerally all tours begin here or in the town of Puerto Ayora, about one hour away on Santa Cruz Island. There are no visitor sites or accomodations, but both public and private transportation from the airport to Puerto Ayora is available. Those on a prearranged tour are often met at the airport and taken their boats a host pelican and noddies will greet you as you arrive at the harbor, and you can begin your wildlife watching within minutes of leaving the airport. continues...