Santa Cruz Island
Today we started our day anchored at Academy Bay, located at the Southern end of Santa Cruz Island. Early in the morning we disembarked at the Galapagos National Park Dock, where we spotted several fiberglass speedboats that serve to patrol the Galapagos Marine Reserve, which happens to be the third largest in the world.
After a short walk we arrived at the Giant Tortoises breeding center, where we learned how the Darwin Research Station scientists and the Park Rangers breed these emblematic chelonians in captivity. Right after our morning visit we had a little free time to wander around Puerto Ayora and do some shopping to support the local economy of the islands.
On our way to the Santa Cruz’s highlands, we stopped by a locally owned sugar mill. There we learned how the Cabrera’s Family processes the sugar cane to get molasses, raw sugar and the very popular sugar cane firewater. They also grow and roast their own Galapagos organic coffee. We got the chance to taste all of these local delicacies. Then we were on to our next stop, Altair, a beautiful restaurant located on the highland of Santa Cruz.
After lunch we continued higher up to the Giant Tortoise territory, where we spotted many giant tortoises walking freely around the farms located in the highlands; creating great opportunities to take great pictures of these reptiles. We also got the chance to walk in a lava tunnel where we found a barn owl perching in this volcanic formation.
At the end of the afternoon we headed back to town. Some of us did some last minute shopping while others went back to the National Geographic Endeavour after a busy day loaded with activities and memorable experiences. What a great way to end another day in paradise.
