Santa Cruz and North Seymour Island
This morning we woke from our slumber early to get a head start on our visit to Santa Cruz. Arriving ashore at Puerto Ayora, we divide into smaller groups, load onto our awaiting buses and head to the Galápagos National Park area, where we hope to catch a glimpse of giant tortoises. After checking into the park, we spot a few roadside tortoises, and our excitement bubbles as we anticipate getting up close to the ancient reptiles. We certainly are not disappointed as we stroll through the grounds at a leisurely pace taking in the sights, sounds and smells of the surrounding environment. We were fortunate enough to view a variety of tortoises, male and female, old and young. Along the way, we discussed the many obstacles that the residents of Santa Cruz and Galápagos in general are facing with invasive species. On our walk, we can see the efforts of individuals to rid the area of the aggressive Cuban Cedar as dead trees creek above us. The Cuban Cedar is the first invasive species to be tackled on Santa Cruz. There are also major problems with Blackberry bushes and Guava trees.
Enroute to breakfast, some of us head underground, not only to cool off, but also to walk through the dark lava tunnels. Here we are witnesses to the awesome power of lava flows. After what already feels like a full morning, we arrive at El Chato Farm for a scrumptious breakfast of fresh fruit, bacon, eggs and pancakes. I think one thing we can all agree on is the quality of the fine Ecuadorian coffee! Back in Puerto Ayora, we all go on our separate ways to explore the town’s offerings. Some opt for shopping, others a walk along the Malecon and many made a quick stop at one of the many internet cafes.
After lunch and a much deserved siesta, Lynn leads an informative discussion about Charles Darwin. Whether in the lounge or listening from our rooms, we all learned a lot about the man who put Galápagos on the charts and greatly altered human understanding of nature.
Shortly afterward, we embark on our afternoon adventure to North Seymour, a haven for iguanas, sea lions and a variety of birds. As we hike over the rocky terrain, we view the mating rituals of blue footed boobies, a sweet dance involving a beautiful display of their colourful feet, whistling and honking as well as a substantial amount of feather ruffling. Frigate birds are also abundant soaring above us, nesting in nearby trees and displaying the vibrant red pouch in hopes of attracting a suitable mate. Our cameras were working over time to catch one magnificent photo opportunity after next.
Back onboard at our evening recap, Ernie takes a few minutes to show us some footage from our snorkeling escapades from the previous day. We learn the names of the many fish we swam with yesterday. After dinner, we again gathered to view the incredible footage of the volcanic explosion of Sierra Negra last October. We retire for the evening after a full day.
This morning we woke from our slumber early to get a head start on our visit to Santa Cruz. Arriving ashore at Puerto Ayora, we divide into smaller groups, load onto our awaiting buses and head to the Galápagos National Park area, where we hope to catch a glimpse of giant tortoises. After checking into the park, we spot a few roadside tortoises, and our excitement bubbles as we anticipate getting up close to the ancient reptiles. We certainly are not disappointed as we stroll through the grounds at a leisurely pace taking in the sights, sounds and smells of the surrounding environment. We were fortunate enough to view a variety of tortoises, male and female, old and young. Along the way, we discussed the many obstacles that the residents of Santa Cruz and Galápagos in general are facing with invasive species. On our walk, we can see the efforts of individuals to rid the area of the aggressive Cuban Cedar as dead trees creek above us. The Cuban Cedar is the first invasive species to be tackled on Santa Cruz. There are also major problems with Blackberry bushes and Guava trees.
Enroute to breakfast, some of us head underground, not only to cool off, but also to walk through the dark lava tunnels. Here we are witnesses to the awesome power of lava flows. After what already feels like a full morning, we arrive at El Chato Farm for a scrumptious breakfast of fresh fruit, bacon, eggs and pancakes. I think one thing we can all agree on is the quality of the fine Ecuadorian coffee! Back in Puerto Ayora, we all go on our separate ways to explore the town’s offerings. Some opt for shopping, others a walk along the Malecon and many made a quick stop at one of the many internet cafes.
After lunch and a much deserved siesta, Lynn leads an informative discussion about Charles Darwin. Whether in the lounge or listening from our rooms, we all learned a lot about the man who put Galápagos on the charts and greatly altered human understanding of nature.
Shortly afterward, we embark on our afternoon adventure to North Seymour, a haven for iguanas, sea lions and a variety of birds. As we hike over the rocky terrain, we view the mating rituals of blue footed boobies, a sweet dance involving a beautiful display of their colourful feet, whistling and honking as well as a substantial amount of feather ruffling. Frigate birds are also abundant soaring above us, nesting in nearby trees and displaying the vibrant red pouch in hopes of attracting a suitable mate. Our cameras were working over time to catch one magnificent photo opportunity after next.
Back onboard at our evening recap, Ernie takes a few minutes to show us some footage from our snorkeling escapades from the previous day. We learn the names of the many fish we swam with yesterday. After dinner, we again gathered to view the incredible footage of the volcanic explosion of Sierra Negra last October. We retire for the evening after a full day.
