Galapagos Islands; Part V

–Day 7-Santiago Island-Egas Port-Rabida Island–

We start the morning hiking across Santiago Island to lava flows teeming with Galapagos Sea Lions.  There are not as many Marine Iguanas as the last two days but they are generally larger.  Some incredible pools and bridges over the ocean formed by the lava flows add texture to an already beautiful scene.  Sally Crabs are climbing on the sea lions and Marine Iguanas.  They clean off the dead skin and the animals don’t seem to mind in the least.

Santiago Island, Galapagos, Ecuador

Lava Lounging Sea Lion and Marine Iguanas

Galapagos Marine Iguana and Sally Lightfoot Crabs

Then it is time for another stellar snorkel.  I keep saying this is the best one yet and today this is true as well.  I see some fish I have never seen before.  Also some purple coral that was quite beautiful.  But the kicker are several sea lions swimming in the ocean with and around us. They are playful and put on quite a show for us.  It is truly an amazing and magical experience.

Click Here for 10 Second Sea Lion Snorkel Video

We reboard about 11 a.m. and pull up anchor.  During and after lunch we navigate to Rabida Island.  The island is red, caused by volcanic ash rather than basalt.  We hike to the top and over.  The scenery is stunning with the turquoise water, green plants and Marine Iguanas popping with color against the red background.

Exploring Rabida Island, Galapagos, Ecuador

Marine Iguana and Lava Lizard, Rabida Island, Galapagos, Ecuador

Rabida Island Pelican

Afterward, one last snorkel, sigh.  No mammals this time but plenty of fish and a couple skinny rays.  A nice windup to the week.

Snorkeling, Rabida Island, Galapagos, Ecuador

Rabida Island Snorkel

Rabida Island Snorkel

–Day 8–Isla Daphne Major–

Sunrise Over Isla Daphne Major

After breakfast we do a Zodiac trip around the island.  I get some good shots of Blue Footed Boobies and some good shots of birds in flight.  Then it’s back to the boat, back to Basra and goodbyes all around.  Guy, Jackson and I head to San Cristobal Island for a couple days.  We will snorkel again tomorrow off Kicker Rock here.

Blue Footed Boobies, Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

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