The Galápagos lie due west of Ecuador and may be reached only by flights through the city of Guayaquil. They are most famous as the place where Darwin refined his theory of evolution, based on observations of the differences that had developed between species living in slightly different climates or separated geographically. The Galápagos have been relatively undisturbed by civilization due to their remoteness, and efforts are underway to eradicate species introduced by man which threaten the native species, especially goats and rats. About 70,000 people a year visit the islands, mostly staying on one of 80 or so boats. Visitors are only allowed on the islands accompanied by an official naturalist guide.

Because most native species have never been hunted, they are not afraid of people, and it's remarkable to be able to get close to them.