As we drive through the highlands of the island see a wide variety of shore birds, including Darwin's finches, pelicans, flamingos and ducks. Several species of plants that exist nowhere else in the archipelago are found here. Devil's Crown, a partially submerged volcano cone, is a highlight. Lunch at a hacienda is followed by a visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station for a briefing on the station's work. There will be time for a brief walk through Puerto Ayora prior to embarkation of the M.V. Santa Cruz.
Dinner is on board.
A wide variety of Darwin's finches, including the rare tool-using woodpecker finch, as well as penguins, flightless cormorants and the Galapagos mockingbird inhabit the territory. Bird watchers will see a wide variety of shore birds, including possible sightings of the Galapagos hawk. Plant lovers will admire the unusual beach plants and mangrove forest lining the coast. An early morning scenic cruise along the Bolivar Channel will afford us the opportunity for some whale and dolphin watching. Disembark for a walking tour of Urbina Bay, where we will observe giant tortoises and land iguanas.