Day 22 in Isabela!

Hey guys! 

Today was a busy one! We left Santa Cruz this morning at 7:00 a.m. and arrived at Isabela at 9:00 a.m. After we dropped off our things, we headed out to the tunnels of Cabo Rosa. On the way, we stopped at Union Rock, which is debated to be a part of Isabela’s shoreline. While learning about union rock, we were surprised by a ton of manta rays either playing, mating, or eating in and out of the water! They were much bigger in person than we had ever guessed, and a crazy sight to see! Finally, we reached the lava tunnels formed by the Sierra Negra volcano. Upon our arrival, we saw the Galapagos penguins, both molting juveniles and adults. They were so small, the second-smallest penguin species, only to those in New Zealand. We were fortunate enough to spot them, and for our boat captain to get so close! We took a walk on the lava caves to see blue-footed boobies on land and sea lions, green and brown turtles, and colorful fish below. It was amazing to see what was created naturally by the once active volcanoes surrounding us. Once we explored the tunnels from above, we traversed them by dinghy to see the crystallization of sea salt underneath. He told us about how the lava caves were once used as a fishing spot, but now they serve as a tourist attraction. This was an interesting example, especially after learning about the impacts of tourism on both the environment and communities of the Galapagos. Afterwards, we went snorkeling! We saw so many animals, from baby black tipped sharks to massive green turtles to even a seahorse! Our guide was able to find a family of white-tipped sharks under a lava cave, which was one of the most memorable moments of the day. Once we finished snorkeling, we had lunch aboard the boat and headed home to get settled. Today was spectacular, and we can’t wait to see what else the island of Isabela has to offer! 

See you tomorrow, 

Vickie