What a magical place. This was my third time to the Galápagos - but as an adult. The former two times were when I was in high school. Sadly, I have somehow misplaced all my film photographs from both those trips. So I made sure to make up for it on this trip. And video! We spent 5 days and 4 nights on board the Infinity with Royal Galapagos. It’s a pretty unique experience due to the fact that sometimes the wildlife are a mere foot or so away. (There is a 6 foot distance rule - but if wildlife are on the main path or they come up to you, there’s not much you can do but let them pass). Since the islands are protected, they don’t see humans as a threat and have acclimated to tourism. Loved swimming with all the sea life! We also spent the last day and a half in Quito before embarking homeward.
Eric, one of the naturalist guides.
Giant Galápagos tortoise at the Reserva El Chato.
Lava tube at El Chato
Hike on Dragon’s Hill
This mud was no joke.
See how close you are to the wildlife?! And this yellow land iguana was like, I’m making my way whether you like it or not.
Marine iguana blends in with the lava rocks.
Galápagos sea lion floating upside down to rest and cool off.
Africa, one of our naturalist guides.
Blue-footed booby!
This adorable sea lion took several (like at least 5) breaks to try and get to shore with its buddies. It was rather hilarious and gosh darn cute.
Surrendering to the brutal sun.
Lava lizard
Circle of life
Boobies!
Such a cute little lava lizard
The dance of the blue-footed boobies.
She’s checking his feet out.
We did a free walking tour of Quito. (Not shown: pouring down rain)
Iglesia y Convento de San Francisco (Church and Convent of St. Francis)
Owners of Casa El Edén, Mario and Blanca. They were very gracious hosts and would highly recommend.
Yup. I went there. Had to document the beginnings of covid-19. This was at the Quito airport on our way out to our connecting flight to Panama.