Galapagos Islands

The islands predators forgot

A visit to the Galapagos Islands is like tapping into all the mystery and wonder of the Garden of Eden. A carnival of animals strut and pose before your camera fearless and beautiful - Mother Nature neglected to include predators in the lush archipelago islands. Nowhere else in the world can you observe blue-footed boobies dance their embarrassing two-step, sea lions lounging on the beach and the world's only tropical penguins as they join you on a snorkel.

As a protected territory, only 60,000 visitors a year are allowed access to this UNESCO World Heritage Site - and only when accompanied by a certified tour guide.

All of the 19 islands provide a bounty for the senses, but if you must distill your trip to just a few islands, we recommend the following:

• Santa Cruz Island - Most cruises begin and finish on this island. For an up-close and personal encounter with tortoises, take a tour of the Charles Darwin Research Center. Don't leave the island until you dedicate some time to the fascinating lava tubes. Wander though these unique tunnels that hot lava shaped over time.
• Genovesa - The best place on the islands to watch the large colonies of frigate birds, a black bird famous for puffing its red neck to attract a mate. Red-footed boobies as well as masked boobies also nest on this island. The only owl in the world without a predator, the short-eared owl, is active both day and night. With any luck, you may have a chance at spotting one or more of these treasures.
• Española - This is the island of love for two distinct native birds. Blue-footed boobies entertain Española visitors with their awkward mating dance. Males contort their bodies into strange poses and holler at potential mates. If the female is interested, she imitates - which makes for strange, yet interesting visuals. Watch as they get down to business in the oddest mating ritual of any of the islands' native birds. The albatross is another bird that calls this island home. From May to June, early risers can catch a glimpse of their beak-cracking ritual.