Today, we enjoyed exploring Santa Cruz Island, the economic and tourist hub of the archipelago. The streets and bike paths in Puerto Ayora, and their native and endemic urban gardens gave us a first glimpse of this remarkable town. Our first visit was at the Charles Darwin Research Station, the oldest and most effective conservation organization in the Galapagos. Here, we enjoyed the native gardens of Galapagos Green 2050 project, one of the innovative applied science processes that the CDRS is carrying out. The aim of this project is to improve the reforestation strategy in areas of difficult access in the National Park. I worked as part of the Research Station for many years, so I always enjoy visiting this place, as it brings me great memories of the important work of international and local scientists as well as conservation practitioners to strengthen the conservation efforts in the islands. Later on, we visited the corrals of Galapagos giant tortoises. These huge, wonderful creatures are one of the most charismatic animals in the islands, and the reason why so many visitors travel here, to enjoy the slow and enigmatic movement of such an amazing reptile. Our visit to the Research Station allowed us to learn about the various successful stories of repopulation of giant tortoises and land iguanas in several islands.
Our next destination was the highlands of Santa Cruz. Some arrived there by bus, while some adventurous guests decided to bike along the same route while enjoying the cooler environment of the highlands. We all arrived to a local farm known as El Trapiche, where we met a family of local farmers who shared with us their way of life. We had the chance to taste organic sugar cane, fresh roasted coffee and a variety of local fruits. After a tasty lunch at one of the most beautiful restaurants of the rural lands of Santa Cruz, we visited Primicias Ranch. This private farm is located in an area where giant tortoises transit all the year round. We were lucky enough to witness more than 20 individuals of different sizes, from small young female tortoises to huge mature males. The feeling of exploring a forest where giants appear behind every tree and water pond is unique, and we all had a wonderful afternoon!
As the day came to an end and we returned to the ship, our guests were thrilled after having experienced first hand contact with such an iconic creature. Tomorrow we will experience another exciting exploration in Santa Cruz Island, as our exploration continues.
