The Galapagos Islands aren't a vacation destination for those wanting to sip umbrella drinks by the resort pool--which is exactly why The Galapagos Islands and Ecuador continues to be a standard resource for inquisitive adventurers, nature lovers, and DIY travelers. This new 3rd edition packs in even more interesting and useful natural history and travel information, including:

- Significant updates to all the major islands and visitor sites; the number of sites has nearly doubled in recent years
- Newly updated and expanded maps
- New photography tips for digital equipment and process
- New detailed chapter on visiting Quito and mainland Ecuador, featuring primary ecological and historical areas in the Andean highlands, rainforests, and coastal areas
- New discussion on how the islands are now a "living laboratory" of global warming, including how wildlife is being affected by changes in food sources