Isabela Island
Today we explored the largest Island in of the Galapagos Archipelago, Isabela; with a sea horse shape it holds the largest populations of reptiles in all the Islands.
After breakfast, our first visit took place at Urbina Bay, situated at the base of Alcedo Volcano. This visitor’s site is very unique, as it is the location of a recent geological uplifting in the Galapagos. Our guests were very amazed to be walking far away from the shore line on a coral reef which used to be covered by the ocean.
Five giant tortoises and about ten land iguanas were some of the sightings of the morning. After the hike, swimming in the turquoise waters of Urbina Beach was the best way to finish our morning’s activities.
In the afternoon our anchorage point was Tagus Cove; a very popular place for whalers and buccaneers in the past. The conditions at this site were perfect for aquatic activities, so we organized kayaking, snorkeling and a Zodiac ride. Penguins, blue footed boobies, marine iguanas, green sea turtles and big schools of fish were the highlights of this site.
Later in the afternoon, a hike was offered to explore a very historic place were the tradition of the past centuries was to write graffiti on the volcanic walls made of tuff stone, the oldest graffiti found near the landing spot is from 1836, just one year after Charles Darwin visited the same area.
At the end of the day we had our recap and briefing for the next day. So far every island has been a whole new world. We are looking forward to seeing Santiago Island tomorrow!
