- Visit Charles Darwin Research Center
- Spend free time in Puerto Ayora
- Jassen on board
- Top up other tour members
- Highland tour of Santa Cruz
Already from the boat I see a small shark in the middle of the harbor basin. This morning we cross over to Puerto Ayora, where we do the Charles Darwin Research Center visit. Because introduced species such as dogs, cats, pigs, donkeys, goats and ants as well as humans four of the total of fourteen species of Galapagos giant tortoises are extinct and have brought others to the brink of extinction, young turtles are protected by enclosures here raised and released after 5–6 years and a size of 20 cm armor diameter.
The different species are kept apart by means of a colored point on the back armor. Clear differences can be seen in the shape of the armor.
After all the small specimens, there are also their larger conspecifics to see. Until 2012 there was also the world famous Lonesome George, the last male pinta giant tortoise. Other specimens were probably carried off to the island of Isabela by pirates or seafarers and survived there, as genetic analysis recently showed, but now hardly purebred anymore should be.
In one of the enclosures six stately males can be seen, who, out of frustration at the missing female conspecifics, crouch up and make panting noises.
In some enclosures there are also Galapagos land iguanas, which are also raised here and later released into the wild.
Then we have a good two hours Time available. Of course, that's not enough for excursions in the area, so let's take a look at the fish market. However, this is closed, so we explore the town on foot and sit in a shady spot to escape the blazing sun and have a drink.
Back on board there is lunch and further guests arrive for the remaining 4 days. Among the newcomers is an older French woman, a German couple, a young Dane, and two other young Canadians with Chinese roots.
Then you have to wait again until 2.30 p.m. for the bus for the Detour to the highlands waiting. We spend the waiting time with the two northern countries Jassen to teach.
While we are crossing to the harbor in the Zodiac, we see a sea turtle right on the surface of the water. After a 45-minute bus ride, we get there El Chato Turtoise Reserve 2. So not the same place as a few days ago, but of course you can also see it here wild giant tortoises. One of the giants is taking a leisurely bath in the mud, which can easily drag on for days. In the middle of the area is a short one Lava tunnel, which we cross.
While we wait in the harbor we see a whole Group of golden rays pass right by us. yes, there is a lot to discover here in the harbor alone.
Otherwise, today was pretty disappointing. After the long drive back from San Cristobal took place yesterday afternoon, at least another snorkeling stop this morning would have been appropriate.
