Down the Napo R. to Sacha LodgeWe rose at dawn for a quick return visit to the Darwin Station and a glimpse of Lonesome George. This time he was snoozing at the back of his compound.
A two-hour small boat ride took us to Isabela, the largest of the Galapagos Islands.
After visiting the tortoise breeding center we strolled a boardwalk through the mangrove and poison apples, past a brackish lagoon where there were pintails, moorhens and black-necked stilts. Puerto Villamil offers a seemingly endless beach and we passed waterfront bars, hotels and homes on the way to Cesar's, our lunch spot (Cesar's salad, anyone?)
We caught our first glimpse of Galapagos penguins hobnobbing with the blue-footed boobies on the rocks as we approached our afternoon snorkeling spot The underwater highlight was a pair of sting rays that glided along the sea bed below us. Afterward we toured Islote Tintoreras, walking among the sea lions and marine iguanas through the fierce volcanic landscape.
Puerto Villamil is the smallest of the islands' three settlements and has a decidedly bucolic atmosphere, palm trees lining the unpaved streets. We took a short sunset walk into town before supper, admiring the Opuntia cactus silhouetted against the fading colors in the western sky.
It is so easy to book trips, the staff is very friendly and helpful and they respond to any and all questions
Lorretta
1 week ago
Mary was super helpful and patient. Answered every question and with candor (answers of “Everything’s equally great” aren’t helpful! 😎).
TMort
1 week ago
The trip planner I worked with, Jane, was excellent. She had travelled to Antarctica twice and was the voice of experience as she explained travel options to me. I've travelled internationally for many years for many years for business and pleasure including a number of adventure trips. It is a delight to work with such an experienced planner. I've used Adventure Life for three trips, Costa Rica, Galapagos and upcoming, Antarctica. I highly recommend them.
Chuck Snavely
1 week ago
Clara was great to work with. She presented lots of options and always responded promptly. And she found excellent options within our price range.