Urbina Bay and Tagus Cove
The Galápagos Islands are a sanctuary for many animal species, which we witnessed today as we visited west Isabela Island. The first adventure of the day was at Urbina Bay by Alcedo Volcano, and a wet landing was the perfect way to begin our journey. The first amazement was the marine iguanas found in the area, showing an impressive big body size, due to their diet of algae, which is found in this upwelling area of the Galápagos.
Farther into the trail, big brain coral heads were seen several yards inland, a consequence of an older uplifting process. The first land iguana of the morning appeared as we explored the inner coastline. The brilliance of this place was displayed in a symphony of land birds’ songs, vegetation colors, and reptile displays. At the end of the hike, we had a pleasurable time as we swam at the beach before coming back on board the National Geographic Endeavour. Once everything was ready, we pulled anchor and sailed to our next destination: Tagus Cove.
Home to whalers, refuge to pirates, Tagus Cove is one of the most historical places in the entire archipelago. The first adventure was deep-water snorkeling along the cliffs of an old tuff cone. As we came into the water, the marvels of the ocean were revealed to us. Reef fishes of multiple colors surrounded us as if inside a natural fish tank. Green sea turtles looked gentle as they rested on the bottom, but the most impressive show was given by the Galápagos penguins as we swam into a feeding frenzy.
The exploration was completed by going on a hike all the way up to Darwin Lake. Young male sea lions were all over the place, as if at a bachelor gathering. Farther along the trail, we enjoyed a spectacular view of Darwin Lake with Darwin Volcano as decoration in the background. Dry zone vegetation and land birds flying were part of the attractions of the hike. At the end of the trail, we had a marvelous view of the northern volcanoes as the sun set behind the dominant figure of Fernandina Island. The marvels of the Galápagos Islands could captivate any explorer who witnesses its wonders.
