The Islands (1) |
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San Cristóbal
A short trip upland brought us to a Galapagueria, a place where tortoises were relocated so they could breed in safety from non-native species such as dogs, cats, rats, pigs, and goats. When the non-native species are eradicated on the tortoises' native islands, they will return. We saw three tortoises while we were there.
Complete with an airport and a population in the thousands, San Cristóbal was not exactly what we expected from the Galapagos. Solitude was not part of our short visit to the island, though snack shopping and last minute purchases of sun cream and underwater cameras was pretty convenient. Sea lions add entertainment as they line the small beaches along the shore in the port.
Isla Lobos
The tiniest island I have ever seen, Isla Lobos is a small strip of land almost touching San Cristóbal. On its outer side, waves crash against the rocks, on the inner side, sea lions play in the calm shallow waters.
Our walk on this island from one end to the other was likely much less than a mile, but the birds, marine iguanas, and sea lions are so close to you. Sally Lightfoot Crabs in brilliant oranges and blue bellies contrast against the black volcanic rocks. For birds, we saw a male Frigate bird with his scarlet pouch, Blue Footed Boobies, and a few baby Frigate birds in fluffy white and brown.
Isla Española
We spent an hour or more on Isla Española walking slowly in the morning sun along the beach looking at sea lions, marine iguanas, and Sally Lightfoots. The sea lions were one of two things: lazy and ignored you, or curious and would come and sniff your shoes or your knees. An incredible experience!