Floreana Island

Floreana, walking and snorkeling

Floreana is the southernmost island in the Galapagos archipelago. While it is no longer possible to see the island’s central volcano because of advanced erosion, the smaller (parasitic) cones that developed along its flanks are very much still evident. Along Floriana’s sandy beaches, grows Beach Morning Glory and succulents like Sesuvium, adjacent to which there is a good opportunity to observe Marine Iguanas (Amblyrhynchus cristatus) and Green Sea Turtles. Further inland can be found Incense Trees (Bursera graveolens), Parkinsonias, Lantana and other dry shrubs. Despite the presence of such plants, Floreana is the only island that has two sources of fresh water something that, early on, made the island particularly attractive to settlers. Today, Floreana has some 180 inhabitants, the lowest number of residents on any of our islands but, as you walk around, you’re drawn to the history of human endeavor in the archipelago – a visit here providing an authentic representation of remote living in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. In addition to its beautiful flora and fauna, sites such as Pirate’s Cave provide Floreana with a magical and mysterious atmosphere, this is an island that should not be missed!