Bartolome and Santiago Island
Bartolome Island is a true small jewel located in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. At just 0.5 square miles, it constitutes a real paradise for its visitors, and the tiny island was at its best today. An early walk to the summit opened up our day. After climbing 372 steps, we had the privilege to enjoy one of the most spectacularly scenic views of the archipelago. After breakfast, we went to an idyllic golden beach located in front of Pinnacle Rock. From the beach we explored the fabulous underwater Galápagos. Many surprises awaited us: white-tipped reef sharks, many colourful fish and intriguing invertebrates. During the evening and at recap time, I had the joy of identifying the various species of fish and invertebrates captured with our underwater camera. One of these species was a great delight for me. The bravo clinid (Labrisomus dendriticus) is endemic to the Galápagos and to Malpelo Island in Colombia. This small fish species (4 to 6 inches) is not uncommon, but difficult to capture in video due to its wonderful camouflage.
The afternoon was great as well. A refreshing and pleasant breeze was our company during the walk along the coastline of Puerto Egas on the western side of Santiago Island. Breathtaking volcanic landscapes dominated by tuff formations were the perfect background to the surprising wildlife found on the walk. Galápagos sea lions, Galápagos fur seals, migratory and resident shore birds, and the always enigmatic marine iguanas were the stars of the afternoon. A spectacular sunset marked the end of our expedition. Once onboard, the lounge was quite noisy with the cheerful and praising commentaries that arose from our guests. The commotion created was an indicator that we all had a great day and that the magic of the Galápagos has deeply touched more people.
Bartolome Island is a true small jewel located in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. At just 0.5 square miles, it constitutes a real paradise for its visitors, and the tiny island was at its best today. An early walk to the summit opened up our day. After climbing 372 steps, we had the privilege to enjoy one of the most spectacularly scenic views of the archipelago. After breakfast, we went to an idyllic golden beach located in front of Pinnacle Rock. From the beach we explored the fabulous underwater Galápagos. Many surprises awaited us: white-tipped reef sharks, many colourful fish and intriguing invertebrates. During the evening and at recap time, I had the joy of identifying the various species of fish and invertebrates captured with our underwater camera. One of these species was a great delight for me. The bravo clinid (Labrisomus dendriticus) is endemic to the Galápagos and to Malpelo Island in Colombia. This small fish species (4 to 6 inches) is not uncommon, but difficult to capture in video due to its wonderful camouflage.
The afternoon was great as well. A refreshing and pleasant breeze was our company during the walk along the coastline of Puerto Egas on the western side of Santiago Island. Breathtaking volcanic landscapes dominated by tuff formations were the perfect background to the surprising wildlife found on the walk. Galápagos sea lions, Galápagos fur seals, migratory and resident shore birds, and the always enigmatic marine iguanas were the stars of the afternoon. A spectacular sunset marked the end of our expedition. Once onboard, the lounge was quite noisy with the cheerful and praising commentaries that arose from our guests. The commotion created was an indicator that we all had a great day and that the magic of the Galápagos has deeply touched more people.
