The first outcrop of rock spotted by the crew of the HMS Beagle on the 15th of September 1835 was Punta Pitt, located in the northeastern tip of San Cristóbal Island. Stunning tuff rock walls rise from the sea, and the little vegetation that manages to grow here hosts seabirds like the red-footed boobies and frigatebirds. Cerro Brujo, further south, is a white-coralline wide beach, the icing of the cake to a fantastic, unforgettable week in the Enchanted Isles.
8/15/2024
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National Geographic Endeavour II
Santa Cruz Island
Today, our expedition brought us to Santa Cruz Island, the heart of the Galapagos Archipelago. We began with an early visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station, founded 100 years after Darwin published “On the Origin of Species”. Here, we learned about conservation efforts, observed the active baby tortoises in their corrals up close, and photographed the unique and special saddleback tortoises. Next, we explored the highlands, discovering how hydroponics and sustainable farming benefit the local economy and preserves the environment. We learned how farms avoid chemicals, protect the soil, and use certified seeds to safeguard the island’s ecological balance. Afterward, we enjoyed freshly brewed Galapagos coffee. What a delicious aroma and flavor! In the afternoon, we visited El Manzanillo Ranch, where we observed dome-shape giant tortoises in the wild, peacefully grazing and sharing their habitat with Darwin finches and Galapagos mockingbirds. This was a truly inspiring experience, revealing the uniqueness and beauty of these enchanted islands during our expedition.
