After our visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station and the subsequent wander through picturesque Puerto Ayora, we took off to the highlands of Santa Cruz. After many days in low islands surrounded by arid zone vegetation, it was truly a refreshing sight to be surrounded by greenery! Fifteen percent of this large island is inhabited, and we have many farms with some crops, but mostly pastures for cattle, the raising of which is an important source of income for locals. Today we spent the whole day exploring this wonderful island, including visiting an area of the National Park where an amazing sunflower tree grows, and searching for tortoises in the wild. Lunch was held at a restaurant deep in the lush vegetation, owned by a local family. Some of our guests opted for a refreshing dip in the pool after a brisk walk, while others indulged in a heated game of volleyball or relaxed in hammocks.