Isabela island
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Isabela is the largest island of the volcanic Galapagos archipelago. Here you can see the famous Giant Tortoises (the Galápagos, from which the island chain gets its name), as well as many of the other species such as giant lizards, that have made the Galapagos a household word for animal life. Here too you can see Sea Lion breeding areas and watch white tipped sharks, as well as many of the 85 species of birds that live or visit the islands.
Apart from the celebrity its animal and bird inhabitants have brought it, the island has another interesting side to its history. During World War II, the United States established a military base 5 miles from the main town of Puerto Villamil, and after the war was over the Ecuadorian Government built a Penal Colony on the island. The area is now known as the "Wall of Tears" (Muro de las Lágrimas). In 1959, the Penal Colony was closed and at the same time the Galapagos National Park was created along with the Charles Darwin Research Station.
Isabela's human population has increased over the years, above all during the 1970`s. Today fishing is the principal economic activity, but ecotourism and the production of handcrafts are becoming increasingly important. Isabela receives many visitors every year and is home to the Centro de Crianza de Tortugas Gigantes which is helping to protect and increase the numbers of these beautiful giant creatures which can weigh up to 700 lbs.
