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What lives where and what to look for The Galápagos Islands are a natural treasure for the whole world to enjoy. Spread across 18 principal islands, three smaller ones and dozens of tiny islets are the creatures that inspired a young Charles Darwin to pen his theory of natural selection, which promptly turned the scientific community on its head. There's some really cool stuff going on here. Check out what lives where to ensure your cruise is everything you want it to be. THE WEST ISLANDS Isabela & Fernandina The largest and youngest of the Galápagos Islands, the less-visited west islands contain some of the archipelago's largest colonies of birds and marine iguanas and boundless snorkelling opportunities. If you're looking for wildlife, come here fi rst. Things to do › Hike to the caldera of Sierra Negra Volcano › Visit massive colonies of seabirds and marine iguanas › Hike over lava fi elds and black lava fl ows › See the fi ve largest volcanoes in the Galápagos THE SOUTH ISLANDS Floreana & Española The south Galápagos Islands are home to top-notch snorkelling and quirky tradition. Volcanic bays and unusual land formations provide shelter for its cool looking birds and fi sh, and the charming simplicity of Post Offi ce Bay always raises a grin or two. Things to do › Relax on white-sand beaches on Gardiner Bay or scale the volcanic landforms › Post a letter from Post Offi ce Bay, the visitor- supported hand-delivery mail system › Discover exotic marine life at Isolte Champion, a snorkeller's paradise THE CENTRAL ISLANDS Santiago, Santa Cruz & surrounding islands The Galápagos' central islands are probably the best spot to witness the full scope of the diversity here, both on land and under the sea. Each of these small islands evolved in isolation from its neigh- bours, spawning an amazing collection of plants and animals. Things to do › Come face-to-face with 100-year-old Galápagos tortoises in the lush green highlands of Santa Cruz › Enjoy the stunning view from Pinnacle Rock on Bartolomé Island › Explore hidden snorkelling spots and white- sand beaches on Santiago › Swim with playful sea lions in the waters off North Seymour 1 Galápagos Islands, explained 66