Bartolome & Santiago Islands
Windy and hazy all around, it seemed to be earlier then it really was; the Garua season has arrived. In spite of how somber the days appear during this time of year, there are many advantages. For instance, it was not too hot making our walks even more pleasant. Since the waters have started to chill, the coastal communities flourished, and we had the opportunity to view large numbers of sea birds and shore birds.
Bartolome was showing a different face with all the mist surrounding this small but intense island. Our climb to the summit was easy, and we were able to see the dramatic change of coloration in the few species of plants present there. Once on the top, we could barely see the island of Santiago in front of us. The feelings this island raised were so intense that after our visit it was only 8:00 in the morning we still felt satisfied.
Not that fast! We still had the snorkeling to come and even though we didn't have the company of penguins, our session was intense with sharks, rays and octopi. The snorkeling was by far an outstanding experience and provided immense serenity.
The afternoon was also rewarding. During our expedition we found several shore birds and of course the fur seal at the grottos. The grottos contain a high density of marine fauna, providing us an opportunity to see a sea turtle from the comfort of dry land. While looking at the ocean and perceiving the rather strong breeze, our minds wandered over the sea as if we were sailing, pushed by that strong wind that reminds us of the certain change of season.
Windy and hazy all around, it seemed to be earlier then it really was; the Garua season has arrived. In spite of how somber the days appear during this time of year, there are many advantages. For instance, it was not too hot making our walks even more pleasant. Since the waters have started to chill, the coastal communities flourished, and we had the opportunity to view large numbers of sea birds and shore birds.
Bartolome was showing a different face with all the mist surrounding this small but intense island. Our climb to the summit was easy, and we were able to see the dramatic change of coloration in the few species of plants present there. Once on the top, we could barely see the island of Santiago in front of us. The feelings this island raised were so intense that after our visit it was only 8:00 in the morning we still felt satisfied.
Not that fast! We still had the snorkeling to come and even though we didn't have the company of penguins, our session was intense with sharks, rays and octopi. The snorkeling was by far an outstanding experience and provided immense serenity.
The afternoon was also rewarding. During our expedition we found several shore birds and of course the fur seal at the grottos. The grottos contain a high density of marine fauna, providing us an opportunity to see a sea turtle from the comfort of dry land. While looking at the ocean and perceiving the rather strong breeze, our minds wandered over the sea as if we were sailing, pushed by that strong wind that reminds us of the certain change of season.
