We began our day at anchor in Academy Bay, located at the southern end of Santa Cruz Island. Early in the morning, we disembarked at the main dock of Puerto Ayora, which is the largest town in the archipelago. After a short bus ride, we arrived at the giant tortoises breeding center, where we learned about how the Darwin Research Station scientists and the park rangers breed these emblematic chelonians in captivity. And we also learned about the two most famous Giant tortoises in the planet. On one hand, the last individual of the species from Pinta Island, Lonesome George, who passed away in June of 2012, and on the other hand we have the most successful reproducer from Espanola Island, Diego. After our morning visit, we had a little free time to wander around Puerto Ayora and do some shopping to support the local economy of the islands.
On our way to the Santa Cruz’s highlands, we stopped by a locally owned sugar mill. There we learned how the Cabrera family processes the sugar cane to get molasses, raw sugar and the very popular sugar cane called firewater. They also grow and roast their own Galapagos organic coffee. We got the chance to taste all of these local delicacies. Our next stop was a beautiful local restaurant called Aquelarre, which is located on the highlands of Santa Cruz.
After lunch, we went to the Manzanillo Ranch located on the natural migratory route of the giant tortoises in Santa Cruz Island, where we spotted several giant tortoises walking freely around these farms. We had some great opportunities to take pictures of these incredible reptiles.
At the end of the afternoon, we headed back to town for some last minute shopping, or to move back to the Endeavour. We were happy and loaded with tons of beautiful memories. What a great way to end another day in paradise.
