Apr 11 2009
Galapagos Volcano Erupts on Fernandina Island
On April 11, La Cumbre Volcano, located on Fernandina Island in the Galapagos Islands, began erupting. Fernandina is one of the youngest islands in the Galapagos archipelago, and a popular destination for Galapagos yachts. The last time the volcano erupted was five years ago, in 2004. This time, the eruption is distinguished by lava running down to the sea. All yachts that visit Fernandina on their itinerary are changing their route until the activity ends. Hopefully, the eruption won’t cause too much damage to the large colony of marine iguanas that live near the eruption site.
Fernandina is home to not only marine iguanas, one of the Galapagos’ favorite attractions, but is also home to the unique flightless cormorants. A mangrove forest and sheltered cove provide habitat for sea turtles and sea rays, and interesting volcanic formations provide a dramatic backdrop for Galapagos travelers.
