The Galápagos is an archipelago situated 1,000 km off the coast of Ecuador in the Pacific Ocean. The Galápagos archipelago consists of 13 main islands and 6 smaller isles. Santa Cruz is the most important island in the Galápagos and home to Puerto Ayora, the largest town in the archipelago and the one with more advanced tourist accommodation and facilities. Because the isolated location there are many native species on the islands. The islands are of volcanic origin, and on some islands there are still active volcanoes. Most of Galápagos Islands are a protected National Park or a Marine Reserve. The Galápagos archipelago is world-renowned for its unique and fearless wildlife. The Galápagos are the dream destination of anyone who is remotely interested in animals. The wildlife on these islands cannot fail to captivate all visitors. No visit to the Galápagos is really complete without getting into the water to see the amazing diversity of life, including the endemic species the islands are home to. Swimming with penguins or sea lions is an experience one will never forget.