From the National Geographic Endeavour in Galápagos, 1/11/2011, National Geographic Endeavour

Santa Cruz is home to one of the most famous and emblematic animal species of the Galápagos Islands, the giant tortoises. We spent the whole day learning, searching and admiring these antediluvian-looking creatures. The first sunrays of the day found us anchored at Academy Bay, outside the town of Puerto Ayora, capital of the island of Santa Cruz.

 

Our first visit in the morning was to the world renowned Charles Darwin Research Station (CDRS), where we learned about the many different programs that exist to save the endangered tortoises’ subspecies from extinction. We observed a big range in sizes, from newly hatched little tortoises to humongous adults. Research is a key factor in the conservation of not only the tortoises but for the well-being of the entire archipelago.

 

Two individuals that live in the CDRS are very popular among visitors: “Lonesome George” and “Diego.” George is the very last surviving tortoise of Pinta Island; he has become an iconic figure for the conservation efforts in Galápagos. Diego was repatriated to Ecuador after living for many decades in the San Diego Zoo. Diego is one of the last surviving male tortoises of Española Island. Since his arrival at the CDRS in the mid-1970’s, he has contributed in a great way to the fast recovery of the population of giant tortoises on Española. From the original 15 tortoises that were left on Española, we now have close to 2000 individuals living there! An incredible successful story that is living proof of the titanic efforts that are being made by the CDRS, together with the support of the Galápagos National Park Service, to save the dynasty of the humble giants of the Galápagos.

 

After a wonderful lunch in the highlands of Santa Cruz, we went to observe the magnificent giant tortoises in the wild. Having the chance to look for and observe these fabulous reptiles roaming free in their natural habitats is the experience of a lifetime.

 

Late in the afternoon we came back to town, and guests opted to stay a little longer in town or relax aboard the National Geographic Endeavour. To top off the day, after dinner we had a visit from local musicians and dancers, who entertained us with a mix of Ecuadorian and Latin American folkloric music and choreographies.