Today all our guests woke up with great expectations to observe the most emblematic animal species of the Galápagos Islands, the majestic giant tortoises in their home islands. Just after breakfast, we spent the morning visiting one of the longest-term and most successful conservation projects run by the Galápagos National Park Service and the Charles Darwin Research Station: the captive breeding and posterior release program of the giant tortoises of the Galápagos.
At the breeding center we had the chance to appreciate first-hand the constant and titanic efforts that have been done in order to save the giant tortoises from extinction and to protect the remaining vanishing populations. These huge antediluvian-looking creatures are truly captivating. We observed several huge individuals that can easily reach three hundred pounds. Lots of pictures were taken as souvenirs.
One remarkable example found in these installations is the case of the Española giant tortoises. There were only twelve females and two males surviving in the wild of this saddleback subspecies. These individuals, roaming on their own over the small island had zero breeding success due to their low population density. They were therefore taken to the breeding center to begin a long and successful repatriation program. Later on, a male from the same species was miraculously found in the San Diego Zoo and joined the small group very successfully, becoming the proud procreator of hundreds of baby tortoises that have since been repatriated to Española. I am talking about Diego! An individual who has gained respect through the years and who is considered the one who has replaced our beloved Lonesome George (†) becoming a symbol for conservation just as the late George was.
After this enlightening visit, we spent some time exploring Puerto Ayora town. We then continued to the highlands to visit a sugar cane mill where we learnt how some locals make a living cultivating coffee and sugar cane. Some guests opted to ride mountain bikes.
After lunch in a paradisiacal location in the highlands, we explored the luxury green Galápagos highlands. We observed the giant tortoises in their natural habitat. It was amazing to find many of these majestic reptiles roaming free in peace. After diner we had a party with lively music played by a local band that came onboard accompanied by beautiful dancing girls who wore typical Ecuadorian dresses. It was a golden finale for an spectacular day in paradise.
