Cerro Dragon and Venice Islet

Not every visitor to the Galápagos gets to meet the land dragons of this archipelago up close and personal. But we had a close encounter today, not only with one, but with several along the trail of Dragon Hill, in the north-western corner of Santa Cruz Island. Giant cactus and holy trees make up the habitat of this species now found in very few of the islands. The iguanas from this place are particularly special because they are part of a successful breeding program. Feral dogs had decimated their population, but in 1977 several pairs were taken to Venice islet, a neighbour outcropping free of introduced species. They have been breeding there ever since, and more than 300 iguanas have already been repatriated back. Maybe this picture is one of those happy offspring.

We had the opportunity of exploring Venice by kayak and by Zodiac, and we also went to Guy Fawks for snorkeling in deep water rich in marine life. After the last massage of the day in the floating spa, we weighed anchor to sail towards Daphne Major.

Everyone came up to the sky deck while our captain took us around this interesting and famous islet, where two scientists, Peter and Rosemary Grant, have seen great examples of natural selection. The sun set behind Rabida Island and soon afterwards we were able to see Mars, which is closer to Earth than ever. Then stars and planets turned on and we enjoyed Scorpio, the Southern Cross, the Summer Triangle, the Dolphin and huge and impressive Jupiter. I wish I could also have a picture of the stars, but close your eyes, and they will be with you all.