We began our day exploring Los Gemelos, a pair of volcanic sinkholes located in the island’s highlands. The lush scalesia forest surrounding these craters provided a striking contrast to the arid lowlands. We had the opportunity to observe native flora and fauna, including several species of finches and the elusive Galápagos short-eared owl. We continued to Manzanillo Ranch, where we witnessed giant tortoises in their natural habitat. These majestic creatures grazed and rested everywhere. The ranch is a tranquil setting to appreciate the scale and grace of these iconic reptiles.
In the afternoon, we visited the Charles Darwin Research Station in Puerto Ayora. Here, we learned about ongoing scientific work to protect and restore endangered species across the archipelago. Highlights included observing juvenile and adult tortoises in the breeding program. Today was a fascinating blend of natural beauty and scientific discovery, from the misty highlands to the inspiring work of conservationists.
