The Galápagos Islands
Frozen in time

TrueColors Travel would be delighted to initiate you into the marvels of this wonderful tapestry of flora and fauna, the unrivalled Galápagos Islands of Ecuador.

The name of the islands derives from the giant Galápagos tortoises. The Island archipelago, 1000 km (600 miles) of Ecuador's Pacific Coast, was formed six million years ago from intense seabed volcanic activity. It consists of 13 larger islands, 6 smaller ones and several islets, which together comprise Ecuador's National Maritime Park.

Charles Darwin, the English naturalist, visited the islands on his voyage on The Beagle in 1835, and discovered this natural laboratory which eventually led him to write his famous work expounding the theory of evolution. Many of the animals had evolved into different species from their continental relatives, and, having never suffered at the hands of humans, showed no fear of contact with man.

Today, this unique group of islands is there for you to explore at leisure. You can go for nature walks on the islands, enjoy the breath-taking views, paddle and even go scuba diving surrounded by these friendly sea creatures.

Passengers go ashore in small groups, accompanied by a multilingual naturalist guide, who can explain the unusual geology and the background of a world which was isolated from mankind until recently. You will have plenty of time to walk, swim, snorkel, take photos and observe the wide range of wildlife on each island. You can swim side by side with sea lions, wander among prehistoric-looking iguanas basking among the rocks, or watch the mating rituals of boobies, albatrosses and other birds at close quarters.