Today we started our day anchored near the southeast corner of Santiago Island, next to one of the most emblematic places of Galápagos: Bartolomé Island. Our first outing took place early in the morning with the sun rising behind the spectacular cinder and tuff formation of Bartolomé. The light was perfect for taking pictures of the landscape. On our way to the summit we learned about the geology of the place, which is surrounded by different kinds of parasitic cones and lava tubes—it was a great experience. From the top of the island we were able to recognize more than 10 different islands.
Later in the morning after having breakfast we headed back to the island for to snorkel from the golden sandy beach of Bartolomé Island. The conditions were very enjoyable, good water visibility and warm, plus a lot of underwater activity. We spotted many different species of colorful reef fish such as parrotfish, damsels, king angels, snappers, and even white-tip reef sharks. The sky was clear and the air temperature was hot, typical conditions during this time of the year.
In the afternoon after our Ecuadorian feast, we visited the small Island of Rabida, located on the southern end of Santiago Island. There we continued with our activities. Some of us went once again in the water for snorkeling and some other of our guest went for kayaking. The conditions were similar that in the morning, which means great. Schools of small silver fish such as anchovies and black-stripped salemas attracted several seabirds. Blue-footed boobies and brown pelicans were having a feast, plunge diving giving us a show; with their radical maneuvers in between us it was an incredible experience. Later on we headed back to the National Geographic Islander to get ready for our last activity of the day, which was a walk on the red sandy beach of Rabida. On the hike, we had the chance to walk surrounded by sea lions; we found many pups nursing and a couple of huge bull patrolling their harems. At the end of the walk the sun was setting, painting the sky with unforgettable bright colors. It was a great day in this piece of heaven on Earth.
