Today offered a perfect balance of conservation, culture, and wildlife as we explored the heart of Santa Cruz Island. Our morning began at the Fausto Llerena Breeding Center where we witnessed the tireless efforts of the Galápagos National Park rangers working to protect and restore tortoise populations. Dozens of baby tortoises rested under the sun in their protective enclosures representing the hope for the archipelago’s future.
In the afternoon, we headed into the lush highlands to visit the Guerrero Family farm, where generations have kept traditional farming practices alive. We learned about their production of sugarcane juice, panela, and even the artisanal firewater distilled using a steel still. The sweet, earthy aroma of sugarcane and the family’s warm hospitality made this a truly memorable cultural exchange.
To round out the day, we ventured into a nearby pasture where giant tortoises roamed freely in the wild. One especially majestic individual slowly made its way across the grass, pausing to raise its head just as our group approached, representing a timeless encounter between people and one of the Galápagos’ most iconic species.
