The Galapagos Islands
Aug 29, 2024
I've long been obsessed with Darwin's Theory of Evolution, and to visit the place that inspired Darwin's theory has been a dream of mine since I was a child. The trip was, truly, remarkable. Literally - I have pages upon pages of remarks I wrote while there and in reflection of the trip. At some point I hope to condense them into something worth sharing.
For now I'd like to simply share some of my favorite experiences from the trip.
A quick greetings to the islands upon landing in Baltra, an island that is, essentially, a runway.
The fabled giant Galapagos Tortoises, easily hundreds of pounds, had no concerns about humans. Within moments of landing we could see dozens of them all around.
The Galapagos Land Iguana, this one raced up to us on the path to chomp on some cactus that had been knocked down. Literally came right up to our feet.
This big guy was sunbathing and let us come up close, and respectfully, to check out the den he'd dug out (our taken over) as well.
The Galapagos Marine Iguana - I just don't usually think of Iguanas as seaborne creatures, so seeing them do their thing in the water was incredible.
Photo credit: Marvin Müller
One of my favorite memories is snorkeling and playing with the sea lions. They are quite comfortable about people, and are happy to hop up on your bench, boat, etc. and we heard stories of them knowing how to open latched doors to get into rooms and boars.
The landscapes and sights are just as impressive as the animals. This little alcove, pair of cliffs, each with their own Blue Footed Boobie standing guard particularly caught my eye.
Photo credit: Marvin Müller
It being breeding season, we got to see tons of baby birds, including this particularly fearless Blue Footed Boobie chick who used it's recently acquired ability to waddle to come check us out.
Sharing a sunset with the Boobies 🐤😃
A dry lagoon baking in the sun.
Photo credit: Victor Hultfeldt
A special treat we got to snorkel in a subterranean river that connects with the sea.
The Galapagos Brown Pelican's are HUGE and are happy to accost you on the street if you have a snack worth eating.
The Sally Lightfoot Crabs are such vibrant colors - they were hard to get shots of, but are beautiful.
There are literally hundreds of other photos I wash I could share. We saw so many things. If you ever have the opportunity, visit, do it. You won't regret it.
Beyond the remarkability of the islands themselves, it was a pleasure to be in the company of other people who were equally awestruck and shared an infectious enthusiasm for every minute we spent there.
Finally, special thanks to Oceanic Society for making the trip possible. Thanks to Max Lollar and Barry Glassman for recommendations on photography equipment.
