#26 completed

Giant Galapagos tortoise and I

My dream trip!
The last weeks I have been on my dream trip: Galapagos Islands! These green, lush, tropical islands in the Pacific Ocean, turned out to be even more fantastic than I ever had imagined. I am a bit of a nature freak, enjoying being outdoors and have of course watched most BBC nature documentaries, with David Attenborough. Galapagos has been one of my dream destinations for a very long time, and I booked the trip, right after I had had my first clear scan last summer. For me it was top priority to get a chance to visit these enchanted islands.

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Galapagos penguin

Endemic species
The Galapagos Islands are home to many endemic species, which means they cannot be found anywhere else on earth. About 80% of the land birds, 97% of the reptiles and mammals, and more than 30% of the plants are endemic. My favorites among the species unique to Galapagos, are the marine iguanas, the fur seals and the Galapagos penguin, the only penguin to be found in the Northern Hemisphere. This penguin has never seen snow or ice and it loves hunting fish and crustaceans in the shallow waters along the western islands.

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Most animals have no enemies and are not at all afraid of people. It is a strange feeling to walk in the middle of a bird colony, among marine iguanas or giant Galapagos tortoises, without them paying any attention to us humans. We did not only hike but also did a lot of snorkeling. In the clear, nutrient-rich waters there are colorful fishes in abundance. We swam with sea turtles, sea lions, penguins, rays and sharks!

Robinson Crusoe and I
Several islands have no human settlements and tourist access is limited to protect the precious wild life, hence giving us a Robinson Crusoe feeling. It was relaxing and recharging to be far away from the civilization with no telephone or internet access, at least for a while! Action 26 is completed and I have many unforgettable memories of animal encounters to cherish.

Marine iguana