Today was our last day in paradise, on this adventure which seems unreal. Even though we are from different generations and even centuries, today we were bonded together as one, and the Galapagos brought magic to our souls and mind. Traveling and reaching Fernandina to San Cristobal islands, the youngest and one of the oldest in the archipelago, on an expedition which takes us on a journey of discovery through time. San Cristobal Island is one of the oldest islands in the Galapagos. Today we land on a green olivine beach. The volcanic scenery that we observed during our invigorating hike is spectacular; the peaks of tuff high in the sky make this site very different from what we have already observed.
Punta Pitt also has impressive scenery from up above – here we could see the deteriorated inversion layer, ready to leave us, but for now keeping us cool and pleasantly comfortable for this walk. All our senses became aware as we listened to our surroundings, in search of red footed boobies.
Soon after, we enjoyed some beach time, observing as an adult marine iguana tried to escape the inquisitive and playful baby sea lion. We had a blast watching such wonderful species coexist, as the waves and sun caressed us for our last good bye.
Later we repositioned to Kicker Rock, an impressive tuff formation standing massively above the shoreline. We circumnavigated as the sun is setting, remembering that this is the place where we just snorkeled with Galápagos sharks, turtles, fish, spotted eagle rays and friends.
We are now together at the bow celebrating life as a few frigate birds fly past us, almost like saying good-bye, as we take a group-picture. Today is our last full day in the islands. We made it to the Galapagos, and it was not easy. There is a deep appreciation to the few children who actually make it to the islands; statistics say that out the 7 billion humans in this world, only a few make it to the Galapagos. To illustrate the contrast: Hawaii 12 million, Yellowstone Park 3 million, Machu Picchu 1 million visitors and finally, Galapagos islands 204.000 per year, a fraction compared to other places. That is why I say, today we are honored to be part of their unforgettable experience, and we hope that one day they would have the will and power to make a positive change in this wonderful world of ours.
Our expedition is now over; life goes on, but we are now sure this place has changed many lives; a place which can never be fully described. We all came with different backgrounds, sharing this magic which can only exist in our hearts and minds forever. Farewell amigos.
