We are all sad that our visit to the Galapagos Islands is over! Each of us came away with wonderful experiences: seeing wonderful animals, snorkeling, swimming with penguins and seals, walking around the Pacific Ocean on huge lava rock hills and meeting two wonderful guides – Valerio and David.
Today began with a visit to the Charles Darwin Research Center. We saw some amazing tortoises and had our group picture of the day taken among them. Valerio was able to mesmerize one of the tortoises so he stood high up from the ground and extended his neck. It was quite a site to see. Finches and tortoises has a symbiotic relationship where the finch helps the tortoise get rid of the bugs on its body. Somehow the finch knows exactly when the tortoise needs its help. The finch is able to read the body language of the tortoise!
We finally saw LONESOME GEORGE. Actually, he wasn’t so lonesome today, as he had a female friend visiting him! Lonesome George was quite excited at the site of her and stood up on his four legs and extended his neck. This is quite feat for somebody closing in on 100 years old. Apparently, visitors to the Research Center DON’T often see Lonesome George in this state!
We then took a bus ride to walk in some LAVA TUNNELS. Lava tunnels are formed when lava flows and the outer part of the lava stream gets cold and hardens. However, the liquid magma that is inside, continues to flow and this leaves empty “lava tubes” behind. Santa Cruz Island is filled with lava tunnels that were formed after many eruptions over a million years ago.
We then took a ferry to Baltra Island where we cheered to the 5th and final People to People delegation that was coming to the Galapagos. As we departed the boat we told the leaders and students what an amazing experience they were going to have, as we knew that they would love seeing the frigate, blue-footed booby, seals, sea lions, lizards and marine and land iguanas.
Our flight to Quito was 3 hours late, so we spent quite awhile at the airport. It was quite relaxing waiting for the plane to arrive, as the airport is “open-air” and the students were able to sit in the sun, shop, play soccer, read, eat and talk as we waiting for our flight.
After arriving in Quito we went to dinner – which was paella and a passion fruit custard. Our big food discovery was “apple soda.” It is quite refreshing and many of us are wondering if it can be purchased in the United States.
Another great day in Ecuador!
Be sure to check out the Flickr’ photos!
