Our day started with a very relaxing hike in the morning at Punta Pitt on the north side of San Cristobal. It was a very pronounced climb, all the way from the beach area to the very summit of a tuff cone where we were able to spot not only a nice bunch of blue-footed boobies in their nests, but also a good amount of red-footed boobies with a few chicks as well. As we came back to the beach, we had a lovely opportunity to snorkel from the beach to refresh ourselves. In the afternoon we closed a beautiful week onboard with a visit to Cerro Brujo Beach where we could relax a little bit while also checking on hatching sea turtles.
12/30/2024
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National Geographic Islander II
Santa Cruz Island
Santa Cruz Island means a day with giant tortoises. Today is the day to see the enormous reptiles, survivors from the time of dinosaurs. The morning started with a visit to El Trapiche Ecologico, a traditional farm that shows us how the settlers managed to produce the basics in the olden times, without electricity but with lots of wit and determination. Next, we headed for Los Gemelos, a pair of massive sink holes surrounded by the remains of the original forest and found in the highlands of Santa Cruz prior to the arrival of the first settlers. After Los Gemelos, it was about lunchtime, so we rode towards El Manzanillo, a private giant tortoise reserve that happens to serve amazing meals. Finally, a small group of us decided to visit the Rearing Centre for Giant Tortoises back in Puerto Ayora before returning to National Geographic Islander II for dinner, our evening briefing, and some live music.
