So said my daughter while eating chocolate fondue after our morning excursion to Espanola. This excursion was the best yet- lots of sea lions, iguanas, lava lizards, albatros, masked boobies, finches, and blue-footed boobies. I particularly loved watching the albatros courtship ritual that consisted of rapid beaks clicking together (kissing) and lots of male strutting (not unlike humans really!).
Back onboard, the kids fit in another swim and nap before the afternoon excursion. The drive to the Galapaguera on San Cristobal was long, but it was a worthwhile visit as it was the only opportunity to see the land tortoises on our short itinerary. We learned about the breeding program there and then headed into town for some brief shopping and a chance to call home.
The kids loved all the sea lions along the beachfront, particularly the ones who ignored the signs and snuggled up in the playground slide.
The trip was not only memorable for the amount of animals we saw but also for the people and accommodations at the two camps where we stayed. Our first guide, BK, was a wealth of information about the animals, landscape and down to the plants and what they were used for. Everyday out was a learning experience with him. All the people at the camps were gracious and the food was excellent.
Our second camp in the Okavanga was just as good as the first as far as the staff, accommodations, food and animals. After our experience at the first camp we amazed that the high quality remained the same. Our guide, G, made sure we were able to enjoy every experience including a rush through the bush to witness a cheetah and an ensuing hunt that he heard over his radio.
In both camps there were enough guides out that if they saw something the other guides were informed which helped in seeing as much as possible. It was also nice that the concessions were large enough that we did not have vehicles following each other throughout the day.
Normally there is always something in a trip of this length that we think could be improved upon but this is the rare case where we cannot think of anything. From the time we left the States to when we returned it was one of the most hassle free vacations we took.
Perhaps emphasizing the use of the laundry facilities at the camps would be useful because of the luggage restrictions would be the only thing I can think of as an improvement to future clients.
Kenneth Dropek
2 days ago
Mary was so pleasant and professional. She made sure all of our questions were answered.