Our morning began at Punta Espinoza, an island that takes us back to very beginning of time. Being the youngest in the chain of Galapagos Islands, Fernandina is around a hundred and fifty thousand years old, which in geological time is considered very young. During our hike, we talked about the very early processes of life that take place as an island is developing. The formation of soil, the simplicity of the ecosystem together with its fragility reminded us that this place deserves to be protected, so that the life cycles of the species that inhabit this part of the planet are not altered by humans and can continue the evolutionary processes. The true power of nature is spectacular!
The westernmost islands of this archipelago, where we are today, are the youngest islands of them all. The scenery of the shield-shaped volcanoes provide an excellent example for our guests, to show what geological time means and how erosion shapes the landscapes of the planet. This area of the archipelago is bathed by the cold Cromwell undercurrent, which is very rich in nutrients and responsible for the marine wild life found in the Galapagos, and also for the green color of the water, known as the upwellings.
In the afternoon, we visited Punta Vicente Roca, along the coastline of Isabela Island, and we had the opportunity to observe the unique species that inhabit this area; Galapagos penguins, which are the smallest penguins of the globe, flightless cormorants, marine iguanas, and Pacific green sea turtles made our Zodiac ride very enjoyable. Back on board, we prepared to see the same creatures again, this time underwater. The snorkeling was just amazing, having the opportunity to swim with the sea turtles and the tropical fish of the area made this the best snorkeling outing so far during this week on board the National Geographic Endeavour.
As we crossed the equatorial line at sunset time, we realized that the overwhelming power of nature that surrounds us this week is reminding us that we are a part of this precious planet that is capable of so many incredible things. That is the magic of the Galapagos Islands.
