As I am writing these words, I am exhilirated to remember the many amazing moments we have had throughout this week. To close such a wonderful week, we have spent the last day of our expedition was spent at San Cristobal Island, the easternmost island of the archipelago. I always enjoy reaching this island, as it is the place I can call home.
Early in the morning, we visited Punta Pitt, an astonishing walk which goes along a dry stream bed and then leads up towards a gorgeous plateau with several viewpoints. This site is the only place in the Galapagos where we are able to witness the three different species of boobies: the blue-footed booby, the Nazca booby and the red-footed booby. During the last years, the number of red-footed boobies and blue-footed boobies in this site has increased. This is the result of the constant efforts of the Galapagos National Park to control introduced species on the islands, such as cats and rats. We witnessed several nests with healthy chicks and caring parents, demonstrating that this ecosystem is healthy and thriving. With the contribution of responsible visitors to the Galapagos, we can improve this kind of positive result and hopefully eradicate alien species from this site. Although this is our last day, the feeling of excitement and awe keeps growing every time we walk just a few feet from the nest of so many birds, which show such a unique fearlessness.
This week has also been unique, as we have had the great company of four international professional photographers from National Geographic, who have shared their knowledge and experiences. Such is their professionalism and passion for nature photography that at this point of the week, most of us are deeply inspired not only to get great pictures, but to appreciate every little detail in the landscape that surrounds us.
We continued our visit to Punta Pitt with a refreshing snorkel along the tuff cone of Punta Pitt. This was our last chance to enjoy the fascinating experience of swimming with playful sea lions and sea turtles, and almost everyone took the opportunity. Finally, our young explorers had the chance to take Zodiac-driving lessons. With the help of our experienced local zodiac drivers, our younger voyagers acquired new marine skills and had great time.
After a delightful lunch and once all the logistics for disembarkation the following morning were arranged, we sailed to our last destination, Cerro Brujo Beach. This long, white sand beach is the perfect spot to reflect on all the beauty of this journey that we have enjoyed together. Throughout this week, I have been able to see how all our explorers and families have had an enjoyable time, whether they are kids, parents or grandparents. The effect of the pristine nature of the Galapagos on each one of us is clear: everyone feels peaceful, inspired and very happy. On this beach, a contemplative moment in the company of sea lions and marine birds was the perfect closure of the week. We ended the day with a spectacular sunset, with the beautiful view of the sun hiding behind Kicker Rock islet. As a write these last words, I believe our future depends powerfully on how well we understand and connect with nature. With this in mind, I feel that during this week, each one of us has created a much closer connection with the breathtaking nature of the Galapagos.
