Rocky, fragile, beautiful, strange--the Galapagos archipelago is unlike any other place on earth. Its geology, its unique flora and fauna, and its striking role in human history intersect in surprising and dynamic ways. This book is the most wide-ranging and beautifully illustrated book available on the famous islands. Not since Darwin's "Naturalist's Voyage "has a book combined so much scientific and historic information with firsthand accounts that bring the Galapagos to life."Galapagos: The Islands That Changed the World" describes how tragedy and murderous pirates curtailed settlement of the islands and how the islands' pristine nature, spectacular geology, and defining isolation inspired Darwin's ideas about evolution. The book explores the diverse land and marine habitats that shelter Galapagos species and considers the islands' importance today as a frontier for science and a refuge for true wilderness.The book's extensive gazetteer provides details about endemic plants and animals as well as travel advice about visitors' sites, diving, photography, when to go, and what to take. Vividly illustrated throughout, this guide is an indispensable reference for natural history enthusiasts, armchair travelers, and island visitors alike.