Sea lions Galapagos Islands

Inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1978 and situated in the Pacific Ocean some 1,000 kilometers from the South American continent, these 19 islands and the surrounding marine reserve are referred to as a unique "living museum and showcase of evolution." Located at the confluence of three ocean currents, the Galápagos are a melting pot of marine species, here the playful Galápagos sea lions by Isla Campion (Champion Island). The Galapagos Sea Lion, with a population of 50,000, are usually one of the first creatures to be encountered by visitors. They’re also the largest animals found here—fully grown males (bulls) weigh up to 250 kilograms (550 pounds).