Bartolomé & Santiago Island
What a wonderful day we had!!
Early in the morning we started with an optional visit to what is best described as an “open book of geology,” Bartolomé Island. We climbed 372 wooden steps which took us 359 feet high on a very small island located in the center of the archipelago. When we reached the top we were captivated by an indescribable view of the world famous pinnacle rock and its surroundings. After, we headed back onboard for breakfast which was followed by a safety briefing as we geared up in our snorkeling equipment. Off we went to explore the underwater realm; many of us can now honestly say we have snorkeled with penguins and sharks!
Once onboard the National Geographic Islander we were pampered by the team from the kitchen who had prepared a succulent, typical Ecuadorian lunch with an array of colors, tastes and herbs showcasing the traditional cuisine from the low lands to the highlands of their tropical country.
Meanwhile we navigated to our next destination on Santiago Island for a second chance to snorkel and for a walk along the shoreline of Puerto Egas; some of us even opted to engage in both activities. We all were rewarded with sightings of both underwater and land animals. Our highlights were the fur seals and an orange sunset we watched as we hiked along the shoreline. The beaches were bustling with activity and all kinds of behavior from Sally Lightfoot crabs, marine iguanas, green pacific turtles, and shore birds just to mention a few.
Today we had close encounters with numerous species that coexist with one another. The proximity of these fearless animals brings humbleness to our hearts and helps us understand how fragile our world is. We were filled with wonder and appreciation for this place called the “Enchanted Islands”.
What a wonderful day we had!!
Early in the morning we started with an optional visit to what is best described as an “open book of geology,” Bartolomé Island. We climbed 372 wooden steps which took us 359 feet high on a very small island located in the center of the archipelago. When we reached the top we were captivated by an indescribable view of the world famous pinnacle rock and its surroundings. After, we headed back onboard for breakfast which was followed by a safety briefing as we geared up in our snorkeling equipment. Off we went to explore the underwater realm; many of us can now honestly say we have snorkeled with penguins and sharks!
Once onboard the National Geographic Islander we were pampered by the team from the kitchen who had prepared a succulent, typical Ecuadorian lunch with an array of colors, tastes and herbs showcasing the traditional cuisine from the low lands to the highlands of their tropical country.
Meanwhile we navigated to our next destination on Santiago Island for a second chance to snorkel and for a walk along the shoreline of Puerto Egas; some of us even opted to engage in both activities. We all were rewarded with sightings of both underwater and land animals. Our highlights were the fur seals and an orange sunset we watched as we hiked along the shoreline. The beaches were bustling with activity and all kinds of behavior from Sally Lightfoot crabs, marine iguanas, green pacific turtles, and shore birds just to mention a few.
Today we had close encounters with numerous species that coexist with one another. The proximity of these fearless animals brings humbleness to our hearts and helps us understand how fragile our world is. We were filled with wonder and appreciation for this place called the “Enchanted Islands”.
