Fernandina & Isabela
We spent a great day at the magical western side of the Galápagos Islands. This is a unique place that reminds us how wildlife established and struggled in the survival of the most adaptable through the changes of nature. Fernandina, the youngest of all the islands, slowly appeared on the dark horizon as the National Geographic Endeavour navigated through Bolivar Channel in search of cetaceans. We were surprised at not finding even one today! Nevertheless, the effort was worth it, as sun rays made it through the cloudy sky and illuminated the dazzling landscape.
At 0800 Paula, our expedition leader, gave us the green light to explore Fernandina. As our guests landed at Punta Espinosa the marine iguanas slowly moved apart once they were aware of our steps; they don’t have much depth perception and it’s better to stay away off their tails. They blend well against the darker rocks, because of some powerful predators that, by the way, showed up a few minutes later in our path: Galápagos hawks, great blue herons and apparently small snakes. Those creatures are in constant search of hatchlings that might be unaware of their presence; the smallest mistake and life shortens!
From the beginning to the end of our excursion we didn’t stop finding amazing wildlife, such as snakes hunting, turtles resting in tidal pools, flightless cormorants, lava lizards, and lots of Sally Lightfoot crabs.
Just a little late on our return, but back on time to snorkel, it was hot already when a few minutes later we jumped off the Zodiacs in search of new experiences. Many sea turtles were feeding on seaweed and cormorants were fishing.
In the afternoon, after crossing the equatorial line, we rode along the cost in search of more wildlife; once again Punta Vicente Roca surprised everyone on board, as we saw one turtle after another.
It really seems that every day is better than the previous.
