Geographical Processes

Galapagos offers a wealth of geographical diversity and is one of the most volcanically active areas on Earth. Witness the constant evolution of the Islands as volcanic eruptions, climate change and human impact modify the wildlife, landscape and culture of the Islands. Find out how geographical processes work together to make this unique Archipelago so special.

The Mayon Composite Volcano (Philippines) erupting in 2009 © Tryfon Topalidis

Location and Formation »

The Galapagos Islands were formed millions of years ago by volcanic activity. Discover how tectonic shifts created the islands and how deep below the sea, organisms thrive in the vicinity of hydrothermal vents. 
Galapagos Places: Kicker Rock © Jen Jones

Oceanography »

Ocean surrounds the Galapagos Islands. Learn about how the Humboldt current and upwelling affect the Islands. 
Galapagos Graphics: A graph to show the fluctuations in temperature and rainfall in Galapagos © GalapagosIslands.com

Weather and Climate »

The climate of the Galapagos Islands varies between the seasons and also across the different areas of the islands such as the coastal areas and the higher elevations. Find out about the seasonal shifts on the Islands and about the predicted impact of climate change.
Galapagos Places: Picture of Floreana Island © Igor Starukha (creative commons 3.0)

A Special Archipelago »

There is no single reason for why the Galapagos Islands are as they are. They have been formed and shaped by a variety of different processes and would look quite different and have a different spectrum of plants and animals if any one of these processes were to change. In this way, Galapagos represents a […]