Urbina Bay & Punta Moreno

The water felt pleasant on our feet upon landing at Urbina Bay, on the western shore of Isabela Island. It wasn’t necessary to have the weather report to know it was going to be a hot morning; nevertheless we had a surprise when at mid morning some heavy clouds appeared above us, providing some relief during our expedition.

Despite the heat (not counting the occasional shade from the clouds) as soon as we disembarked we encountered an impressive number of primrose or sulfur butterflies. Their yellow color against the black basaltic rocks and their jumping ethereal motion is to the eyes of the observer very refreshing; just like experiencing an intonation of a chant that puts one in a trance and makes the mind float, away from the present.

The lava lizards, land iguanas and a roaming tortoise were other companions during the hike and it was very restful for our minds to be surrounded by all the greenery of the forest.

The lava desert at Punta Moreno gave us an outstanding experience also. The field extends as far as one can see, in all directions! And just in the middle of this dramatic environment, like a mirage on the desert one can see a pond of brackish if not sweet water, appearing from nowhere as if it was created five minutes ago; but no, it is older than that and therefore has been there for much longer time.

Blue winged teals, common gallinules and flamingos are regular tenants of these little niches that on their own form dazzling microclimates. Surprising as this could be, today we witnessed once again the prowess of nature through the selective forces displayed right in front of our eyes.