We spent our last full day in our expedition around the magical Galápagos archipelago visiting San Cristobal Island. This morning I woke up in high spirits, eager to explore and explain all the marvels of this remote paradise. We started the day with an invigorating but rewarding hike to the summit of a volcanic plateau at Punta Pitt.
In the first section of the hike to the plateau we climbed up a very old eroded ridge. Once at the top we enjoyed an extraordinary view that made us think that every single step was worth the effort. Further in the trail it was possible to admire a dreamlike volcanic scape with large patches of bright red carpetweed (sesuvium spp) and green patches of Nolana (Nolana galapagensis). The latter plant species are both succulent plants with bright colors that contrast with the gold and brown of their surroundings.
As an alternative for those who did not want to participate in the walk we had the option to go for Zodiac rides instead of the hiking. Many seabirds were seen together with Galápagos sea lions on the volcanic rocky outcrops of the coastline and surrounding islets.
After the hikes and Zodiac rides we had the chance to go in the water for a refreshing swim or just to spend some time on the beach relaxing or sunbathing. San Cristobal lava lizards and Darwin finches were very abundant today. It was a real pleasure to photograph these creatures at a very close range.
During lunch, we sailed towards“Leon Dormido” or “Kicker Rock.” This magnificent offshore eroded volcanic tuff cone is located on the western coast of San Cristobal Island. It is one the most-well known volcanic trademarks of the Galápagos. Snorkeling in this location was spectacular. Even though it was little bit choppy our enthusiastic guests jumped in the water to encounter many sharks that added a dose of adventurous adrenaline to this outing.
Late in the evening and once all the snorkelers came back on board, we enjoyed a beautiful sunny afternoon on the foredeck of the ship while circumnavigating Kicker Rock. It was a golden finale for a great expedition around the world famous Galápagos Islands.
