This brand new day of our expedition around the magical Galapagos Islands found us at Puerto Ayora, the capital of Santa Cruz Island. This colorful and effervescent community constitutes the largest human settlement of this enchanted archipelago.
For many of our guests, today has been a day they have been waiting for with great anticipation. The whole day was dedicated to the most emblematic animal species of the Galápagos Islands—the magnificent giant tortoises. We spent the early morning witnessing one of the longest-term and most successful conservation projects run by the Galapagos National Park Service, the captive breeding and release program of the giant tortoises of the Galapagos.
In the breeding center, we had the opportunity to appreciate first-hand the massive and well-needed efforts that have been made in order to save the giant tortoises from extinction and to recover vanishing populations. These enormous antediluvian-looking creatures are truly captivating to observe, from a baby tortoise the size of a little doughnut to huge individuals that can easily reach up to four or five hundred pounds!
After this enlightening visit, we spent some time exploring Puerto Ayora town. We then continued to the highlands to visit a sugar cane press, where we learned how a local family makes a living by cultivating coffee and sugar cane. Some guests opted to visit a local school supported by Lindblad Expeditions, while others preferred to ride mountain bikes.
After lunch, we explored a paradisiacal location in the luxury green highlands of Santa Cruz. We observed the giant tortoises roaming peacefully in their natural habitat. A fine mist, locally known as “garua” accompanied us during the whole outing. We left the giant tortoise territory behind and headed back to town and then to our home this week, the National Geographic Endeavour. After dinner we had a party, with lively music played by a local professional band that came aboard accompanied by beautiful dancing girls who were wearing typical Ecuadorian dresses.
In the aftermath of this long, but spectacular, day our minds and hearts are fulfilled with unforgettable new memories and discoveries.
