Our day started at a magical place, so well-known that it’s in nearly every book, documentary or Galapagos postcard that you see. I am talking about Bartolomé Island and its Pinnacle Rock, the most iconic view of this archipelago. So today we got a lot of adventure. First, early in the morning, we went to climb the summit of Bartolomé. Along the way you see many volcanic formations such as cinder cones, spatter cones, lava tubes and solidified lava flows. The island is very dry, covered by few plants, some of them endemic to Galapagos like the “Tiquilia” or gray mat-plant, that is seen in all places. Some lava cactus as pioneer plants are also found in some areas. Once at the top, the view is astonishing. Far in the distance you see several islands like Daphne and Santa Cruz. By one of the flanks you see a crater of a very old cone submerged under the turquoise blue water, and on the other side the “moonscape” is spectacular. This is one of those moments of magic and dreams, and to see it early when the sun rises makes it even more fantastic.
Later we had breakfast on board and then went to a nice beach at the foot of Pinnacle Rock. There we explored the Galapagos submarine world. Some of our intrepid guests got to see a shark for first time in their lives, a great experience and a magnificent and unforgettable moment. The place was calm, few sea lions were basking on the beach and some ghost crabs were filtering their food in the golden hot sand. Up in the sky a few sea birds were gliding around. It was a very pleasant morning full of adventure and great moments.
In the afternoon we moved into Bainbridge Islets to finally arrive at Chinese Hat, which is a very old cone formed by pyroclastic material. You can very clearly see its crater and its landscape is spectacular. A second snorkeling took place there. One of the highlights was a guest who was able to see marine iguanas feeding algae a few feet deep. Only here in this archipelago can you see a marine iguana who is able to hold its breath up to 45 minutes underwater. It is a good example of adaptation to very extreme environments like Galapagos.
A great variety of marine life were the companion of our avid explorers: king angel fish, parrots fish, sharks, rays and sea stars.
After having a good time there, we came back to our ship. Then, we went to ride for a Zodiac ride along the coast of James Island in search of penguins. Yes! We do have penguins on the equator and in warm water our guests can swim with them. Some shoreline birds were spotted, such as striated herons, great blue herons and wandering tattlers. On the way back to the ship to finish our day, the orange colors of the sunset decorated the 360 view around us. Happy faces, happy spirits of having another glorious day in this unique place on earth. “There is not two places like Galapagos,” a very enthusiastic guest said as the sun went down to sleep. Good day, goodnight!
