Isabela & Fernandina
We woke up this morning in the western most part of the archipelago, Isabela, the seahorse-shaped island by far the largest and youngest of the Galápagos group. Being connected to the hotspot, this area is counted as one of the most active volcanic regions in the world.
The perfect shape of the shield volcanoes and the young black lava flows makes this a magical place. The shore line is covered with algae, as an example of the abundance of nutrients that support the rich insular marine ecosystems.
Just before the general wake up call, during breakfast and minutes ahead of the equatorial crossing, we were greeted by a pod of common dolphins. These creatures are the non common dolphins that are normally quite elusive.
Once in the Zodiacs we rode along the Isabela coastline, at the very base of one of the big volcanoes. The waters of the area are filled with pacific green sea turtles, giant marine iguanas, tiny penguins, Galápagos flightless cormorants and more. The productivity of the waters here are a result of the cold counter ocean current of Cronwell.
Snorkeling made us realize what we had glimpsed above water. It was now fully visible underwater… an unforgettable experience.
Fernandina, in the afternoon, is the youngest and most pristine island of the Galápagos. We can see the very early processes of life taking place, where everything is very simple. The geological age of Fernandina is what makes the difference with all the other places in the world that have actually formed the same way.
What an extraordinary experience we had today. Having the chance to witness one of the most magical places in the world will stay with us for the rest of our lives!
