So far, so good! We have had a wonderful expedition around the magical Galapagos Islands. Today found us in front of one of the little hidden treasure islands of the archipelago, South Plaza Island. This relatively small island, only some few hundred yards long, was once part of the ocean floor. It is the product of tectonic events that produced an uplifting. The amount of wildlife on this paradise, despite of its small size, is surprising. In addition, the stunning marine landscape of the surroundings is merged with a cacti forest immersed in a rather surreal red carpet. Several colorful Galapagos land iguanas (Conolophus subcristatus) were seen roaming free everywhere in this picturesque landscape.  There were several Galapagos sea lion colonies as well.  Some big individuals were seen searching for the best position for napping while some juveniles were seen either exploring or playing in the surroundings.

Once we arrived to the highest point to walk along the cliff, we found the best site to watch sea birds in action. Frigate birds were seen harassing Red-billed tropic birds for stealing their food, Galapagos shearwaters were skimming the ocean surface looking for food, Blue and Nazca boobies were gliding along the cliffs plunge diving for food as well. Swallow tailed gulls were seen either flying around or taking care of their hungry youngsters.  Occasionally, frigate birds were seen trying to steal food from the passing Swallow tailed gulls and boobies.

After this magical morning visit we went back to the ship to join a great talk with naturalist Rissel Moreti about the “Human History of the Galapagos Islands.” After lunch we had some downtime before starting the afternoon’s activities. Soon after, it was time to get ready for snorkeling on Santa Fe Island. We had a blast! Waters were calm and warm today and many colorful reef fish species and sea turtles were seen.

Immediately after, once everyone came back onboard, we put on our walking outfits to explore the trails of Santa Fe Island. In this remote location there are striking sceneries where huge volcanic cliffs are filled with giant prickly pear cacti making this location nearly perfect for hiking. A more energetic, longer hike was offered as well. The landing beach is home for many Galapagos sea lions that were the delight of their observers. The rocky inland trail took us to encounter some pale brownish green land iguanas and the famous Santa Fe land iguana (Conolophus pallidus). This latter species, as its name implies, is only found in this small island – nowhere else in the Galapagos.

We finally came back onboard with the inner feeling that we were privileged to spend a whole day in these realms that showed us the beauty of the wilderness.

 

 

Sea Lion photo: Pato Maldonado; Fish photo: Rissel Moreti.