Santa Fe Island
Today was iguana day because we saw two of the four species of land iguanas that live in Galápagos: Conolophus subcristatus, or Galápagos land iguana, lives in South Plaza and Conolophus pallidus, or Santa Fe land iguana, which is endemic or unique to Santa Fe Island.
South Plaza is a small islet full of life! Land iguanas of course, but we also saw many lava lizards and sea lions during our visit in the morning. The winds blowing from the south are very well appreciated by seabirds such as swallow-tailed gulls, blue-footed boobies, frigate birds and tropicbirds. This small Santa Cruz satellite island had small diversity and striking flora, prickly pears with trucks and succulent plants like portulaca randomly placed by Mother Nature for us to admire.
All colors were on display: yellows, reds and greens among this black and red lava rock. Land iguanas were all over in large numbers, coexisting with sea lions. Today we had an encounter with a very big sea lion that was resting on the top of a cliff over 100 feet high. Just by walking into their colony and observing the surroundings we took in their social structure, bounding between mommy and puppy respecting one another’s space.
Our captain repositions the ship as Antonio, our photo instructor, gives a talk to improve our wildlife photography. Fernando had an entertaining activity with our young explorers. Lunch was served and we were ready for our next visit.
Kayak and snorkeling in Santa Fe was one of our highlights! White spotted eagle rays were seen in massive numbers, sea turtles were also the stars! Our kayakers enjoyed turtles and sea lions with outstanding views. Today’s water temperature was at 65 degrees Fahrenheit.
To close our day we had an interesting hike searching for Santa Fe’s land iguanas. As we went in, we were greeted with an impressive arid forest. We saw magnificent prickly pears, snakes and the cutest rat in the world, Santa Fe’s rice rat. We also observed sea lions’ social behaviors, which make them show-offs for sure!
Later we were back onboard and ready to start our next navigation. Our voyage has reached its peak and I know the best is yet to come.
Wish you were here my dear reader, searching for an adventure, a journey of discovery on an expedition in one of the best places on earth, the Galapagos Islands.
