Ms. Caine's South America Adventures

August 6^th – Galapagos – Santiago Island and Bartolome Island

What an incredible day! Our first stop off the boat was at Santiago Island. This is one of the youngest of the islands. The volcanic eruption that formed this island was just a mere 200 years ago. We were able to take a hike on the lava fields! It was unbelievable!!!! The patterns in the lava rocks were fascinating! We were also able to see pioneer plants. These are plants that begin to inhabit the area to make way for further flora and fauna in the area. Our guide explained to us that if you could come back and visit the island in about 100,000 years or so…it would appear similar to the other islands that we have visited! Just unbelievable to think about that!!! We then toured around the island in a panga looking for penguins. And…we actually found a few! They are adorable!!!! We then visited Bartolome Island. We hiked to the top of the mountain to see an incredible view!!! We were able to see the tremendous expanse of the lava fields, craters filled with water…and just magnificent views! After that we went snorkeling! I wish I could describe it as I was experiencing it!!! So many fish!!! So many different species of fish! And…a shark!! It was really exciting to see it…and to swim with it…but then it kind of dawned on me that it was a shark…and I was glad it swam away! J We saw puffer fish, angel fish, rays, penguins, pelicans, rays, an assortment of tropical fish in splendid colors, sea snakes…and so much more! It was simply spectacular!!!

I have to say that visiting the Galapagos is a real eye opener! I think we focus too much on what mankind accomplishes…forgetting the impact on nature! There is something truly magical about an environment where nature is actually given the freedom to live it course! Darwing’s theory of natural selection is the way of life here. Man is not the predator… Fascinating way of life! I have to admit…the simple way of living has its benefits! J

Tomorrow we are on our way to Santiago! Lots of plane flights! We arrive in Chile on Saturday morning! So…I will definitely add photos when I get a chance. We are in Santiago for 2 days and then head off to Easter Island! I will post before then…as I’m sure the Internet is not too reliable on Easter Island!