Today is our last day in paradise on an adventure that seems unreal. We all bonded as one even though we are from different backgrounds. The Galapagos brings magic to our souls and minds. On a journey of discovery through time, we traveled from Fernandina to San Cristobal Islands, the youngest and one of the oldest in the archipelago.

Today we landed on a green olivine beach on San Cristobal Island. We observed spectacular volcanic scenery during an intense hike. We enjoyed the present moment, one that will live in our hearts forever. Peaks of tuff rising high in the sky make this site very different from those we have already observed.

Punta Pitt has impressive scenery. The inversion layer kept us cool and pleasantly comfortable for our walk. All our senses were heightened as we listened to our surroundings while we searched for red-footed boobies. Our explorers from La Real Academia de Doctores de Europa were in touch with nature and surrounded with fearless creatures this week.

Soon after our walk, we enjoyed beach time. We observed sea lions playing on the beach, and embarking was fun.

Later, we repositioned to Cerro Brujo for our last walk over a white sandy beach where we observed the turquoise ocean and playful sea lions.

What a wonderful way to say goodbye to the Galapagos. Today was particularly special for it was a very low tide. The ocean was magical, sending in waves of different lengths and frequencies over the wonderful white sand beach. We boarded the ship and passed by Kicker Rock, an impressive, massive tuff formation standing out from the shoreline as the sun set on the horizon. We are now together in the lounge having a Mesa Redonda, a round table conversation to celebrate life. Gulls fly nearby, like they are saying good-bye. Today is our last full day on the islands.

We made it to the Galapagos, and we have a deep appreciation for those who made it here before us. Today we feel honored to be part of such an unforgettable experience. We hope that one day we can all work together to make a positive change in this wonderful world of ours.

Our expedition is now over, and life goes on. Still, we know that this place has changed many lives, this place that can never be fully described. We all came with different backgrounds, and now we share a magic that will exist in our minds forever.

“We must rethink our indoctrinated knowledge, the methodical saying ‘don’t humanize the animals’ and instead ‘animalize the human’ by perceiving our surroundings with all our senses; embracing nature with our true-spirit by coexistence and respect for one another, so we can become one with nature as we once were.” Celso Montalvo

Farewell amigos.