Today we arrived in the Galápagos! We were received by our Galakiwi guides who took us to Santa Cruz Island via ferry. Once there, we got on a bus and headed to a giant tortoise reserve where we saw many ancient tortoises and learned about their environment and behaviors. We were also able to walk through lava tunnels that showed the interesting geologic history of the islands.

After seeing the tortoises on the reserve we went to a breeding center where scientists and conservationists are working to preserve specific species of tortoises and iguanas. We learned about how different invasive species have affected local species on the islands and how scientists are trying to remedy the imbalance. We saw adorable baby giant tortoises (under a year old and the size of a hand) that are being raised in captivity to be released into the wild in a few years.

After learning about some important ecological ideas and specific animals during the day, we went to a beach and swam. In the evening we had a chance to wander around, eat, shop, and enjoy the boardwalk close to our hostel. Tomorrow we will be going to a beautiful river that runs through a canyon called Las Grietas and then we will head to another island, San Cristóbal!

— Fedora & Dan