Today our guests experienced Santiago Island. This is the Island that Darwin explored the most when he visited the Galapagos back in 1835. Darwin, together with some crew of the HMS Beagle, camped on the island of Santiago for a week. While on the island, Darwin studied Galapagos marine and land iguanas, collected finches, mockingbirds, insects, and plants. Most of the species that Darwin collected were unique to the islands.
Before breakfast, our guests were kayaking through the pristine waters of Buccaneer Cove. This was a unique experience, as we paddled gently along the rugged coastline flanked by towering cliffs and volcanic formations. Encounters with curious sea lions and graceful sea turtles added an element of delight to our adventure. We also observed blue-footed boobies and swallow tail gulls along the cliffs.
In the afternoon, as we hiked the trail at Puerto Egas, we encountered a number of marine iguanas basking on the dark lava rocks. Their adaptation to a marine lifestyle is unparalleled, with specialized flattened snouts and sharp claws enabling them to forage for algae and seaweed among the rocky seabed.
As we were leaving the trail, our guests spotted a great blue heron standing on top of a tree. Their behavior is characterized by patience and precision, as they stand motionless for extended periods, awaiting the opportune moment to strike at passing prey with lightning-fast reflexes.
