Today is our last day in paradise for an adventure that seems unreal. We all bonded as one even though we are from different backgrounds. The Galapagos brings magic to our souls and minds. On a journey of discovery through time, we traveled from Fernandina to San Cristobal, the youngest island and one of the oldest in the archipelago.

Today we landed on a green olivine beach on San Cristobal Island. Peaks of tuff rose high in the sky, making this site very different from those we already visited. We observed spectacular volcanic scenery during our intense hike, and we experienced profound feelings while enjoying the present moment, making memories that will live in our hearts forever.

Punta Pitt also has impressive scenery from up above. The inversion layer kept us cool and pleasantly comfortable for our walk. All our senses were heightened as we listened to our surroundings while searching for red-footed boobies. We were lucky to see them in their nests, including juveniles. We also saw a few blue-footed boobies. One juvenile in particular will soon leave its nest.

Soon after, we enjoyed beach time, where we enjoyed interacting with playful sea lions. Embarking was also fun. Later, we repositioned to Cerro Brujo for our last walk over a white sand beach. We soaked in the turquoise ocean and the sea lions.

What a wonderful way to say goodbye to the Galapagos. Today was particularly special, for it was spring tide. The ocean was magical, sending in waves of different lengths and frequencies over the wonderful white sand. After boarding the ship, we observed Kicker Rock. The sun set on the horizon behind this impressive and massive tuff formation. We are now together in the lounge, celebrating life as a frigatebird flies nearby, almost like it is saying goodbye. Today is our last full day on the islands.

We made it to the Galapagos, and it was not easy. We have a deep appreciation for those who visited the islands before us. Today we are honored to be part of this unforgettable experience, and we hope that one day we all have the will and power to make positive changes in this wonderful world of ours.

Our expedition is now over. Life goes on, but we are sure that this place has changed many lives, this place that can never be fully described. We all came from different backgrounds to share in a magic that will exist in our minds forever.

“We must rethink our indoctrinated knowledge, the methodical saying ‘don’t humanize the animals’ and instead ‘animalize the human’ by perceiving our surroundings with all our senses; embracing nature with our true-spirit by coexistence and respect for one another, so we can become one with nature as we once were.” Celso Montalvo

Farewell amigos.