Southern Isabela Island
Our expedition continued today with our exploring of Southern Isabela Island. These realms are some of the least explored and most remote locations of the Galápagos archipelago. Urbina Bay, located at the base of Alcedo Volcano was our first stop. Geologically speaking, this place is one of the most interesting in Galápagos.
As recently as 1954, one-and-a-half square kilometers of the marine reef off the coast was uplifted by as much as 12 feet! The whole event took place in less than a month! This famous event is living proof of how quickly volcanic settings can change. Large amounts of coral lifted out of the water were left as well as remains of skeletons of the many animals that were trapped in this sudden event.
Some guests opted to go on a very long hike and some others decided to take a much shorter one. In both options tough we spotted several brightly colored Galápagos land iguanas. To top the morning off we spotted a couple of Galápagos giant tortoises amidst the green exuberant vegetation as well. A relaxant cooling swim at the black landing beach was next. Some guests opted for an amusing activity and popular activity – diving from the ship.
In the afternoon the ship was repositioned even further south. We anchored in the vicinity of Punta Moreno. The volcanic landscape seen there is simply beyond belief. Walking here is like going back in time. Everywhere you look, you can see a harsh-looking environment of young lava fields with hidden oasis of lagoons surrounded by tall mangroves forests. A couple of adventurous groups went on a hike on this surreal and pristine location. We had an option for those who did not want to be part of the hike, a long Zodiac ride along the coastline. We found several Pacific green sea turtles, Flightless cormorants and many, many rays. Ray sightings were particularly outstanding today. We spotted several species of rays swimming slowly in the shallows. Once onboard we all had time during cocktail hour and recaps to interchange the feelings and memories that these fascinating realms have left imprinted in our minds and hearts.
