Bartolome & Santiago Islands
It is so pleasant to realize that even though this is the last day of our expedition, there is still a lot to see and learn.
We started the day very early with a hike to the summit of Bartolome Island. The challenge for the guests was to conquer the summit while observing the volcanic landscape. A staircase of 372 steps helped us to accomplish our goal. We took some rest at a couple of observation places, breathing the fresh air and feeling the quietness of the surroundings. We spotted a few Galápagos lava lizards that seemed to welcome us with their presence.
Once at the top, the most beautiful landscape reminds me of the perfect postcard that has been printed in my mind for several years. Later on in the morning and after breakfast we disembarked once again on Bartolome Island, this time on a golden beach. From this beach we walked over a sand dune to a second beach. On our way to the second beach we witnessed a couple of Galápagos lava lizards showing off their abilities, trapping small insects that were around the tiny flowers of a pioneer plant known as Tiquilia. We had another surprise; we observed several Pacific green sea turtles nests where they have recently laid their eggs. On the way back to the landing beach there was a graceful Galápagos male sea lion demonstrating his territorial behavior by barking and swimming along the beach. Our guests were curiously observing and taking photos of the sea lion. It was a hot morning and it was very refreshing to take a dip in the water, with its pleasant temperature.
Right after lunch we headed to Santiago Island. After a couple of hours of navigation, the National Geographic Polaris arrived to Puerto Egas. At around three o’ clock is was time to disembark again this time to practice some snorkeling and swimming activities. Suddenly, another surprise in this day, a heavy tropical shower fell for approximately ten minutes. The rain was warm and it was a sign that we are, in fact, immersed in the warm rainy season. We have not had rain during the last days, therefore it was a little bit of adventure. From time to time, rain is very good.
After snorkeling we went for a walk to the grottos. During this walk we saw Pacific green sea turtles, Galápagos sea lions, Galápagos fur seals, an American oystercatcher feeding his sweet baby and a feeding frenzy of blue footed boobies. What a spectacular farewell!
The Galápagos expedition cruise is over and I feel that I will miss you all. Thank you for your great conservation attitude. I just would like to say, “See you all soon!”
It is so pleasant to realize that even though this is the last day of our expedition, there is still a lot to see and learn.
We started the day very early with a hike to the summit of Bartolome Island. The challenge for the guests was to conquer the summit while observing the volcanic landscape. A staircase of 372 steps helped us to accomplish our goal. We took some rest at a couple of observation places, breathing the fresh air and feeling the quietness of the surroundings. We spotted a few Galápagos lava lizards that seemed to welcome us with their presence.
Once at the top, the most beautiful landscape reminds me of the perfect postcard that has been printed in my mind for several years. Later on in the morning and after breakfast we disembarked once again on Bartolome Island, this time on a golden beach. From this beach we walked over a sand dune to a second beach. On our way to the second beach we witnessed a couple of Galápagos lava lizards showing off their abilities, trapping small insects that were around the tiny flowers of a pioneer plant known as Tiquilia. We had another surprise; we observed several Pacific green sea turtles nests where they have recently laid their eggs. On the way back to the landing beach there was a graceful Galápagos male sea lion demonstrating his territorial behavior by barking and swimming along the beach. Our guests were curiously observing and taking photos of the sea lion. It was a hot morning and it was very refreshing to take a dip in the water, with its pleasant temperature.
Right after lunch we headed to Santiago Island. After a couple of hours of navigation, the National Geographic Polaris arrived to Puerto Egas. At around three o’ clock is was time to disembark again this time to practice some snorkeling and swimming activities. Suddenly, another surprise in this day, a heavy tropical shower fell for approximately ten minutes. The rain was warm and it was a sign that we are, in fact, immersed in the warm rainy season. We have not had rain during the last days, therefore it was a little bit of adventure. From time to time, rain is very good.
After snorkeling we went for a walk to the grottos. During this walk we saw Pacific green sea turtles, Galápagos sea lions, Galápagos fur seals, an American oystercatcher feeding his sweet baby and a feeding frenzy of blue footed boobies. What a spectacular farewell!
The Galápagos expedition cruise is over and I feel that I will miss you all. Thank you for your great conservation attitude. I just would like to say, “See you all soon!”
