The western side of Isabela Island was the site for today’s adventures. We landed on a black sandy beach in Urbina Bay just as the sun was peeking over the nearby Alcedo Volcano, bathing the landscape with its warm light. Numerous sea turtle nests dotted the upper reaches of the beach. This area is of particular interest because it is the first time this week that we would be hoping to see the giant tortoise in the wild. It is also notable because of its unique geological history. Most of the trail we walked was underwater until 1954 when a large section of the sea floor was uplifted. As a result, many of us were astonished at the large coral heads, sand dollars and tubeworms that we saw well inland today among the well-established vegetation. Just steps off the beach we found our first wild giant tortoise of the trip. There were several, large and small, that we encountered on the walk. It was a treat to see them in their natural environment…to watch them as they approached through the vegetation and fed along the side of the trail. Numerous birds: Galapagos flycatchers, mockingbirds, and finches filled the air with song and fluttered nearby as we passed. Land iguanas that burrowed in holes under the vegetation came out into the open as the day became warmer. Many noted the color differences between these iguanas and the ones we saw two days ago on North Seymour Island. As the morning progressed, the temperature continued to rise, and we were happy to be able return to the beach with time to swim in the cool water before heading back to the ship.
As the ship relocated to nearby Tagus Cove, we feasted on a hearty and delicious typical Ecuadorian lunch buffet. It provided the energy that everyone needed for an afternoon full of activities. Snorkelers and kayakers explored the waters and were delighted to see penguins, cormorants, sea turtles, and a variety of fishes. Hikers were rewarded with a beautiful view of Darwin Lake and the National Geographic Endeavour below them at the end of the day. Others chose a sunset cruise around the bay and were enchanted by a large school of rays and small pod of bottlenose dolphins that came nearby as the sun set over Fernandina Island in the distance. Regardless of how people chose to experience Tagus Cove, all were amazed at yet another day of diversity and wonder in the Galapagos Islands.
