Diving, Evolution and the Gal

The Galápagos Islands are situated off the west coast of South America in the Pacific and their biggest claim to fame is that Charles Darwin developed his theory of evolution there. Owing to the richness of animal species on the island, Darwin was able to study them and formulate his theory which completely changed people’s world views. Spanish is spoken on the islands and they take their name from the large Galápagos tortoises that live on the island, whose  shells look like large saddles;  galápagos is the Spanish word for saddle.

The island’s modern day claim to fame is the magnificent diving that can be enjoyed in its warm waters where you can swim with brightly coloured fish and sea lions. For diving destinations, it is incomparable, although experts warn that it’s not a place for beginner divers, but rather for those with a bit of experience under their belts. This is due to the strong current in its waters.

The islands have been declared as a location for  one of the ‘seven wonders of the underwater world’ -  70 000 square kilometers around the islands have been declared a nature reserve and sharks and whales are strictly preserved and protected in the area. You are also bound to see large turtles, dolphins and a variety of rays on your diving expedition. Not to mention the incredible 450 species of fish that inhabit the coastline. From fauna to flora, the water hosts a rich assortment of coral and algae and other undersea flora.

Visibility in the waters couldn’t be better, although sometimes green waters are experienced owing to the sheer volume of phytoplankton. There are possibilities for drift diving, deep sea and night diving. Most of the diving in the area is drift diving where you are taken along by the current and the boat follows you for a pick up.  Deep dives are much colder so thermal protection is necessary. Night diving is done as a shallow dive with no current. With a lamp you should be able to see fur seals, turtles and many other marine creatures, and you will surface under the breathtaking expanse of stars.

If you choose to dive in the warm island water, remember that the Galápagos Islands are the birth place of natural science as we know it today. While you appreciate the nature surrounding you, think about your place in the greater scheme of things – you are part of a natural system of birth, evolution and death, which is completely beautiful and infinitely complicated.