Bartolome and Santiago Islands
The Galápagos Islands are well known for their volcanic origins. This archipelago has often been described as “Islands Born of Fire”, which reflects their violent recent history. The renowned naturalist and photographer Tuy De Roy used this evocative title in one of her most successful books. Signs of this recent past are everywhere to be seen, particularly on today’s visits. We spent our morning on the small Bartolome Island, located in the central part of the archipelago. This tiny island, only 0.5 square miles, is made up of small parasitic cones that arose in the sea near the island of Santiago. Snorkeling, swimming, nature walks, glass bottom boat outings and observation and photography of the rich wildlife of the area were activities that took place during the whole morning before setting off to spend the afternoon on Santiago Island. This island, in contrast with Bartolome, is very large - the fourth largest among the enormous volcanoes that form the archipelago. Water activities on a black sand beach were the prelude for a relaxed walk along the shoreline. Fur sea lions, marine iguanas, Galápagos sea lions and some shore birds species were seen blended with a wonderful volcanic landscape. A majestic sunset was our company on the way back on board.
At the end of the day our hearts and minds were filled with new emotions and memories. Feelings accumulated during the whole week. In the end, everybody onboard had a common thread, the love and admiration for this exceptionally exquisite place. This week has not been the exception; commentaries of praise and admiration were the tonic during the whole week. The Galápagos Islands, one of the ultimate Nature travel destinations, touched their visitors once more with their magic.
The Galápagos Islands are well known for their volcanic origins. This archipelago has often been described as “Islands Born of Fire”, which reflects their violent recent history. The renowned naturalist and photographer Tuy De Roy used this evocative title in one of her most successful books. Signs of this recent past are everywhere to be seen, particularly on today’s visits. We spent our morning on the small Bartolome Island, located in the central part of the archipelago. This tiny island, only 0.5 square miles, is made up of small parasitic cones that arose in the sea near the island of Santiago. Snorkeling, swimming, nature walks, glass bottom boat outings and observation and photography of the rich wildlife of the area were activities that took place during the whole morning before setting off to spend the afternoon on Santiago Island. This island, in contrast with Bartolome, is very large - the fourth largest among the enormous volcanoes that form the archipelago. Water activities on a black sand beach were the prelude for a relaxed walk along the shoreline. Fur sea lions, marine iguanas, Galápagos sea lions and some shore birds species were seen blended with a wonderful volcanic landscape. A majestic sunset was our company on the way back on board.
At the end of the day our hearts and minds were filled with new emotions and memories. Feelings accumulated during the whole week. In the end, everybody onboard had a common thread, the love and admiration for this exceptionally exquisite place. This week has not been the exception; commentaries of praise and admiration were the tonic during the whole week. The Galápagos Islands, one of the ultimate Nature travel destinations, touched their visitors once more with their magic.
