Our expedition in the enchanted Galapagos archipelago continued today as we explored one of the most beautiful concealed treasures, South Plaza Island. This small island, which is in fact just a few hundred yards long, was once part of the ocean floor. It is the product of a volcanic uplifting. The amount of wildlife found in this paradise is overwhelming. In addition, the marine landscape of the surroundings is beautiful as well.
A juvenile Galapagos sea lion was seen at the landing dock waiting patiently for its mother to return. Its beautiful face captured the admiration of its observers. Further inland there was a spectacular cliff side where many sea bird species can be observed either flying around or resting. Once we arrived at the highest point to walk along the cliff, we found the best site to watch sea birds in action. Galapagos shearwaters were skimming the ocean surface looking for food, Nazca boobies were also gliding along the cliffs and Swallow tailed gulls were seen either flying around or taking care of their hungry youngsters. Huge cacti surrounded by a dreamlike red carpet of plants and colorful Galapagos land iguanas seen everywhere made this location look like a real life painting. Darwin finches are abundant here as well. Some of these iconic birds were seen at a very close range which delighted their spectators who avidly photographed them.
After this magical morning visit we went back to the ship to join a presentation. Naturalist Ruly Menoscal talked about the Human History of the Galapagos Islands.
After lunch we headed to Santa Fe Island. At this location there scenery is remarkable, where volcanic cliffs are covered with giant prickly pear cacti, some of the largest found in the Galapagos. Early in the afternoon some guests opted to go kayaking while others went snorkeling. The water was relatively calm today inside the inner bay, in contrast with the open waters that were a little choppy during navigations. Many colorful reef fish species were seen in addition to Galapagos sea lions, sea turtles and a few rays.
Once everyone was back onboard we went to explore Santa Fe Island. The landing beach is home to a fairly large Galapagos sea lion colony. The rocky inland trail led us to encounter a couple of pale, brownish green land iguanas, the famous Santa Fe land iguana (Conolophus pallidus). This latter species, as its name implies, in only found on this small island and nowhere else in the Galapagos. It is not only endemic to the Galapagos but only this island making this sighting one of the highlights of the day.
The sun setting on the horizon told us that this day was over and it was time to return to our home away from home this week, the National Geographic Islander.
