Crater Tour

“Two craters, but not twins?” a curious voice piped up from our group. Excellent question! Here at Crater Tour, or Los Gemelos as the locals say, we encounter a fascinating geological puzzle. These two massive pits on Santa Cruz Island aren’t actually volcanic craters in the traditional sense. Crater Tour presents a unique geological formation. The name “Los Gemelos,” meaning “The Twins,” is a bit of a misnomer. These impressive depressions weren’t formed by explosive eruptions like typical craters. Instead, they are the result of collapsed magma chambers. Imagine volcanic activity pushing upwards, the lava hardening on the surface while the molten rock below continues to flow. Eventually, the underlying chamber empties, leaving a void. The earth above can no longer support its own weight and collapses inwards. This creates the dramatic sinkholes we see at Crater Tour. The resulting depressions, while not true craters, are still a sight to behold. A lush Scalesia forest surrounds Los Gemelos. Enjoy a leisurely hike through this verdant landscape up to the rim of the craters. As you walk, keep your eyes peeled for the vibrant birdlife that calls this area home. Darwin’s finches flit among the branches, while vermilion flycatchers add splashes of color. You might even spot a Galapagos dove or, if you’re lucky, the elusive short-eared owl. From the rim of Crater Tour, take in the panoramic views of the surrounding forest. It’s a tranquil scene, a reminder of the powerful forces that shaped these unique formations and the delicate ecosystems they support. So, while not volcanic twins, Los Gemelos at Crater Tour offer a remarkable glimpse into the geological wonders of the Galapagos Islands.