We continued our expedition around Isabela Island today and we disembarked in Urbina bay. We went for a long walk into the wild lands of this archipelago and it was very interesting. As we hiked along, we were met by some of its inhabitants-giant tortoises and land iguanas. It was really wonderful to see at least 7 giant tortoises that were all roaming the island looking for greenery, which was not easy to find even though it is the rainy season. It has not been raining much, so the island is looking somewhat dry. On our excursion we also found more than 7 big iguanas that were chasing the females… it was very hot so they were taking their time!
As we got closer to shore we walked by the uplifted area from 1954, land that raised over 3 meters above sea level. Today this same land that was once underwater is home to the gentle reptiles. We were happy to discover that it had recently been raining in this area and that’s all it takes for the incense trees and the cordias to flourish and flower.
In the afternoon, we arrived to Tagus Cove, a historical place found on the northern part of Isabela, where early sailors came to find protection from rough seas and search for giant tortoises. Here we snorkeled with Pacific green sea turtles, flightless cormorants, penguins and playful sea lions which stayed around for quite a while. We had an invigorating hike all the way up the volcano and ended the afternoon with a beautiful rainbow. It was a special ending to a special day.
