Cruise Galapagos And See Nature's Ecosystems

Galapagos Splendor

Ecosystems’ Many Revelations

All nature begins at the most primitive level.  Remarkably, when you Cruise Galapagos Islands you have an opportunity of a lifetime to witness the intricacies from basic marine life forms to the sophisticated evolution of a flightless bird.  No environment on earth provides such a rich array of natural development in as concentrated an area as the Galapagos archipelago.

The Explorer II utilizes certified naturalists provided by the Galapagos National Park.  They share a plethora of information on nature’s ecosystems on the numerous tours Galapagos Explorer offers.  Many excursion choices exist that guide visitors through this beautiful ‘zoo without walls’. Travelers learn how the islands were formed, the habitats that have evolved, and the ways scientists continue to learn from this natural laboratory.

There are four primary ecosystems that comprise the Galapagos Islands.  These systems were formed by a combination of wind patterns and elevation contrasts.  The first ecosystem is home to arid lowlands and open forests, comprised of giant cacti.  The second system is made of subtropical forest.  The third system comprised of thick, moist forest appears at higher elevations.  And the fourth ecosystem is home to ferns and grasses situated in treeless uplands.

You will discover when you cruise Galapagos islands that the general topography is volcanic in origin.  Touring around the islands visitors see a stunning array of breathtaking rugged escarpments and cliffs on most island shorelines.  Jagged points of land comprised of volcanic rock dot the coasts.  The tides, wind and weather have further shaped these land masses over millions of years.  And even though the chain is quite young at approximately five million years old, it has nonetheless been afforded an unusual environment for adaptation and evolution.

It is this kind of science and splendor that is available for the sophisticated traveler seeking an exotic destination.  The four ecosystems serve as foundation for all species present to evolve and thrive.  As such, the Islands are home to a staggering richness in plants, aquatic life, birds, reptiles, and animals.  Take the trip of a lifetime and you will discover when you cruise the Galapagos Islands this most extraordinary spot on earth.