Santa Cruz Island
Since we left Fernandina Island, yesterday evening, our guests were looking forward to our arrival in Santa Cruz Island.
Giant tortoises were the main “dish” for today; everyone was eager to get to see them roaming in the wild, as it happened hundreds of years ago. On the other hand people wanted to know what the Charles Darwin Research Station exactly was, and they were very surprised to find out a neat breeding and raising center for both giant tortoises and land iguanas. There they learnt more about the re-introduction of different tortoise species to their home islands. They also met Diego from Espanola, the most productive tortoise in captivity. We got to see the most famous tortoise of the Galápagos, “Lonesome George”, who has a gloomy history in the reproductive area.
After having a lovely, warm morning, everyone headed west to explore the town of Puerto Ayora, visiting the fish market by the bay. This was very impressive for visitors, because they’ve gotten to see how fishermen brought fresh fish to town. Once we finished our delicious lunch in the highlands, within a lovely farm with pool and sport fields, we headed to visit the famous lava tunnels which are at least 1500 feet above sea level. We explored the vegetation in the Scalesia forest, where we found many different species of Darwin’s finches (tree finches, woodpecker finch, and ground finch).
As we walked through the forest giant tortoises appeared. It was so unexpected, they stared at us, but continued with wild behavior, ignoring our presence. With so many amazing experiences, we learned that wildlife in Galápagos is very special, and we’ll for sure keep this place in our hearts.
Since we left Fernandina Island, yesterday evening, our guests were looking forward to our arrival in Santa Cruz Island.
Giant tortoises were the main “dish” for today; everyone was eager to get to see them roaming in the wild, as it happened hundreds of years ago. On the other hand people wanted to know what the Charles Darwin Research Station exactly was, and they were very surprised to find out a neat breeding and raising center for both giant tortoises and land iguanas. There they learnt more about the re-introduction of different tortoise species to their home islands. They also met Diego from Espanola, the most productive tortoise in captivity. We got to see the most famous tortoise of the Galápagos, “Lonesome George”, who has a gloomy history in the reproductive area.
After having a lovely, warm morning, everyone headed west to explore the town of Puerto Ayora, visiting the fish market by the bay. This was very impressive for visitors, because they’ve gotten to see how fishermen brought fresh fish to town. Once we finished our delicious lunch in the highlands, within a lovely farm with pool and sport fields, we headed to visit the famous lava tunnels which are at least 1500 feet above sea level. We explored the vegetation in the Scalesia forest, where we found many different species of Darwin’s finches (tree finches, woodpecker finch, and ground finch).
As we walked through the forest giant tortoises appeared. It was so unexpected, they stared at us, but continued with wild behavior, ignoring our presence. With so many amazing experiences, we learned that wildlife in Galápagos is very special, and we’ll for sure keep this place in our hearts.
