Isabela - Last Stop in the Galapagos!

Isabela - one of the northern islands in the Galapagos was our last stop before our epic Pacific crossing. It had a very different feel to it than the other islands as it doesn't receive too many visitors outside the usual boat tours. The beaches and wildlife were abundant and the marine life (again) was amazing. We only had a handful of days here so we decided to organise a boat tour with our friends on Chilli Cat and Maloo to 'Los Tuneles' a series of volcanic tunnels and outcrops which could only be reached by speedboat and locals 'in the know'. Snorkelling in crystal clear water with turtles, sea lions and manta rays was the order of the day - we are so spoilt.

 

On the way back to our boat we spotted dozens of manta rays along the coast. The speed boat operator slowed down and allowed those who could keep up, time in the water with these graceful giants. This was a major highlight of our overall time in the Galapagos. They are majestic!

 The Galapagos penguins would hang out and sun themselves on the rocks near our boat.

These guys are everywhere - it was so easy to pass the day just hanging out with them on the beach.

The blue footed boobies were another delight to watch. They dive into the ocean from a great height and swim underwater in pursuit of their prey. I loved sitting on the bow of our boat, enjoying a morning coffee and watching them plunge into the water around us. They are distinctive with their bright blue feet which is a sexually selected trait. Males display their feet in an elaborate mating ritual by lifting one and then the other up while strutting before the female. 

Although our time in the Galapagos was rushed and a little stressful as we didn't follow the proper protocol for legally being there we were both surprised at to how much we enjoyed the islands. The wildlife and serenity of the islands was amazing and definitely put the Galapagos on our top 3 places we've visited so far on this trip. With our time on land behind us we now have to mentally prepare for the challenge ahead - a 2895nm sail to the Marquesas Islands in French Polynesia.