In the center of the Galapagos Islands lies this large island on which flora and fauna abound.

Early in the morning before breakfast we set off for the outing of the day. A wet landing on a brown beach marks the beginning of a fantastic expedition. Some of the groups head inland for an invigorating hike through the Palo Santo and mangrove forest, where we saw many species of land birds, such as finches, mockingbirds, doves, and more.

 

Others just decided to stay around the beach for a more specific photo session. One of the fantastic appearances was a couple of hawks that often come around in search of emerging baby turtles or other animals, like crabs or lizards, for food.

 

We headed back on board for breakfast while the ship repositioned to the next destination, Buccaneer Cove. Here we enjoyed several options like kayaking along the beautiful cliffs that surround the area, usually with a view of species of sea birds like sea gulls, boobies, and pelicans, just to mention a few.

 

Another activity was rounds of glass-bottom boat sessions, where you can enjoy the Galapagos underwater realm without getting wet. For those that want to get wet, a deep water snorkel option is set up for the encounter of fish, sea lions, turtles, rays, and even sometimes the sharks that are abundant in this waters.

 

The morning was then over and we were all happy, feeling ready for lunch and to continue the expedition energized.

 

Another location on Santiago awaited us. This one is called Puerto Egas in honor of the man who promoted salt mining in this area for mainland people as a profitable business in the 1920’s. Only remains of that business are seen today, as this area was declared a national park in 1958.

 

The afternoon was very interesting with some groups going on hikes along the shore to view the marvelous and varied wildlife of this place. Marine iguanas, sea lions, fur seals, and all kinds of marine and migratory species can be seen and photographed without much difficulty. Some others just decided to take it easy and stayed on the beach to take pictures, go for a stroll, or snorkel in the water with incredible wildlife.

 

This was another fantastic day in Galapagos which ended with sun setting behind the volcanos around us.