A biology professor of mine once said that being a naturalist was nothing like what we expected. We were used to National Geographic and the like showing us closeups of many animals and there was no ''down time'' where nothing happened. In real life you could be in the field a week and never see an animal.
In the Galapagos, I was also in National Geographic. I was tripping over animals everywhere we went. Especially the marine iguanas were plentiful, everywhere and you really could mistakenly step on them because they blend into the black volcanic rock.
Today's photos include:
Blue footed booby nesting on cliff face, taken from cabin cruiser on the way to snorkel. They are numerous, but it is hard to see their feet because they sit on them. They are genuinely blue.
I also saw frigates, noddies, penguins and too many finches to remark on. They all knew Darwin personally I hear.
That is me in huge rubber boots standing next to a land tortoise (all turtles and tortoises are called tortuga in the Galapagos whether they live on land or sea. These huge guys eat all the time and slowly lumber around in the forested areas. They sigh with a large sound reminiscent of Darth Vadar. The places that were most populated with them were wet and lush, hence the rubber boots.
The last photo is of 2 marine iguanas on the sand at the beach called Tortuga Bay. They are about 3 to 4 feet long! There were piles of these guys everywhere on sand, on rocks, in the mangroves, etc. I had to constantly watch my feet to avoid stepping on them. They were also common on docks, beach fronts, volcanic rock near beaches and in mangroves. Nothing endangered about these guys!
More photos tomorrow. This was the most wonderful, magical adventure of my life.
I spoke with at least a half dozen other travel companies, looking for a Galapagos cruise that fit our schedule and budget. Some companies could manage one or the other, but Erin was the only one who could do both. She found us the perfect cruise, at a fantastic price! And she has been quick and patient with responses to my many questions. So far, Adventure Life has been a fantastic company to work with!
Sandi T
2 weeks ago
Erin was patient, thorough, responsive, knowledgeable.
Karen Bukolt
3 weeks ago
Erin was responsive, knowledgeable, helpful, and ran through a few different choices with us. She got us a fabulous price on a trip, and made everything easy to do. And QUICK!!
Tina
1 month ago
From the initial meeting and planning process with our trip planner Jess, through to the finalizing of our itinerary, trip details and questions, I was very impressed with the professionalism, thoroughness, organization and attention to details. I would highly recommend Adventure Life to anyone looking to plan a unique travelling experience, knowing that the expertise and experience provided will result in a seamless trip of a lifetime.
Lynn Farquharson
1 month ago
Excellent suggestions I line with my desires on a Galapagos very last minute cruise.
Swift and professional guidance and assistance in booking the trip. Helped me realising a substantial saving.