Floreana Island
“Considering the small size of these islands, we feel the more astonished at the number of their aboriginal beings, and at their confined range. Seeing every height crowned with its crater, and the boundaries of the most of the lava-streams still distinct, we are led to believe that within a period, geologically recent, the unbroken ocean was here spread out. Hence, both in space and time, we seem to be somewhat near to the fact –that mystery of mysteries- the first appearance of new beings on this earth”. (Charles Darwin, 1845)
This is the famous paragraph from Darwin’s “Voyage of the Beagle”, which summarizes his feelings for this archipelago. Darwin came to these islands a little over 150 years ago aboard the HMS Beagle. His experiences on board that ship, his visits to wonderful geological sites, and his encounters with the flora and fauna of these islands set up the stage for the development of his theory of evolution by means of natural selection.
There is no doubt that the most famous visitor to the Galapagos has been Charles Darwin, but even before his time, this curious archipelago has been rich in history. Buccaneers, whalers, hunters and scientists have all left their mark on the islands and their biota.
Today we enjoyed visiting one of the most historical islands in the Galapagos. Floreana Island has a special charm that is clearly visible even from the distance. Its tuff cones half covered by the morning mist set up the perfect stage for amazing stories.
Early in the morning we headed towards the post office barrel erected probably by Captain James Colnett in 1793. This historical place showed to our guest one of the most interesting mailing systems in the world. The morning was full of excitement. Plenty of choices were given to every one, and snorkeling was definitely the favorite. Playful sea lions at Champion Island showed off their abilities under water. Their capability of twisting their bodies in the water amazed every one of us, impressing us with a spectacular show full of indescribable talent.
Galapagos is an environment with countless surprises and it is entirely up to you to find them all…
“Considering the small size of these islands, we feel the more astonished at the number of their aboriginal beings, and at their confined range. Seeing every height crowned with its crater, and the boundaries of the most of the lava-streams still distinct, we are led to believe that within a period, geologically recent, the unbroken ocean was here spread out. Hence, both in space and time, we seem to be somewhat near to the fact –that mystery of mysteries- the first appearance of new beings on this earth”. (Charles Darwin, 1845)
This is the famous paragraph from Darwin’s “Voyage of the Beagle”, which summarizes his feelings for this archipelago. Darwin came to these islands a little over 150 years ago aboard the HMS Beagle. His experiences on board that ship, his visits to wonderful geological sites, and his encounters with the flora and fauna of these islands set up the stage for the development of his theory of evolution by means of natural selection.
There is no doubt that the most famous visitor to the Galapagos has been Charles Darwin, but even before his time, this curious archipelago has been rich in history. Buccaneers, whalers, hunters and scientists have all left their mark on the islands and their biota.
Today we enjoyed visiting one of the most historical islands in the Galapagos. Floreana Island has a special charm that is clearly visible even from the distance. Its tuff cones half covered by the morning mist set up the perfect stage for amazing stories.
Early in the morning we headed towards the post office barrel erected probably by Captain James Colnett in 1793. This historical place showed to our guest one of the most interesting mailing systems in the world. The morning was full of excitement. Plenty of choices were given to every one, and snorkeling was definitely the favorite. Playful sea lions at Champion Island showed off their abilities under water. Their capability of twisting their bodies in the water amazed every one of us, impressing us with a spectacular show full of indescribable talent.
Galapagos is an environment with countless surprises and it is entirely up to you to find them all…
