With all of the wondrous wildlife around the Galapagos Islands, you may forget to explore beyond what’s right in front of you—as there’s already an abundance to look at. Lucky for you, as your educational travel experts, we’re here to give you the lowdown on what’s below the surface of this unique geography. These volcanic islands are filled with millions-of-years-old lava tunnels, ripe for intrepid investigation. The most famous of them is the half-mile long Tunnel of Endless Love that’s buried in the depths of Santa Cruz Island. (Its name comes from the heart-shaped hole in its roof.) You’ll also find the longest of the Galapagos’ tunnels, the Cueva del Cascaja, measuring a massive 1.87 miles in length!
You might be wondering what a lava tunnel is, especially if you’re a bit (c)rusty in the field of volcanology. (Sorry. Couldn’t help it.) Well, when a volcano erupts, bubbling lava flows down its side. Although the lava exposed to the surrounding air is cooled (so much so that it solidifies,) the lava underneath stays hot and continues to flow down the volcano, leaving a hollow tunnel in its path.
Safe for even the most ardent claustrophobe, these tunnels are extremely wide and surprisingly spacious, allowing ample room to stand and gaze at the geological gem around you. With a staircase leading you into these (mostly) well-lit caverns, you’ll be able to take in the rusty reds and blue-grays of the ancient volcanic rock, touch the smooth tunnel walls, and spot tiny stalactites forming on the ceiling. And for the super observant among you, look out for small crystals made from mineral deposits dotted around the tunnel. Hard to believe the glimmering formations were once a fiery mess!