As we drifted into Wreck Bay to anchor you couldn't help but notice the sea lions swimming around the boats and basking on the beaches. They are everywhere, very amusing to watch but a bit smelly so sea lion defences were quickly deployed to prevent them climbing into the cockpit. We did though have a little friend sleeping on the bathing platform from time to time.

Just 15 mins walk from the centre of town is the Interpretation Centre explaining the uniqueness of the Galapagos. The path continues out towards the headland and we came upon a cove where we had a delightful swim with the sea lions. They're so playful and mischievous you forget they're wild animals.
The Galapagos islands and waters are a National Park and visitors must adhere to the strict rules put in place to protect this fragile ecosystem. Many places of interest can only be accessed with a Park Guide and this of course means booking an organised tour (at great expense!).

Our first tour was a boat trip out to the mighty impressive Kicker Rock to snorkel through the gigantic gaps in the rock. Our expectations were high, hoping to glimpse the sharks and Manta Rays but alas on the day we saw none. Still, it was quite thrilling drifting with the current between the mighty vertical rock walls.

The following day we stuck to land and hired some dodgy mountain bikes to take us up into the highlands. Once at the top we took a short walk around the El Junco lake (a volcanic crater), then stopped for lunch before braving the heat walking around the Giant Tortoise reserve. It's estimated 100,000 tortoises once lived on San Cristóbal but with centuries of exploitation, rats, goats and depletion of habitat there are approximately 2000 remaining. To avoid extinction Tortoise eggs are collected, incubated and once hatched remain in the reserve for approx five to eight years before being released back into the wild. These magnificent creatures can live up to 200 years.
Our afternoon ended with a lovely dip in the sea to cool down. I must say it's the best cycling I've ever done. We took a taxi for all the uphill and free wheeled all the way down (hey we're on the equator, it's bloomin hot!)

Our third trip was to Punta Pitt on the other side of the island to see the endemic Galapagos Boobies.
It was a long two hour ride by boat to get to Punta Pitt but the reward was worth it. John our Park Guide first took us snorkelling and at last we saw our sharks. They were white tipped sharks and they were just 3 metres below us. Exciting!
Later we were dingyed ashore to hike in search of the Boobies. There are three types, the Blue footed, Red footed and the Nazca. We had the privilege of observing these wonderful birds at close quarters. Our guide made the tour really informative and interesting.
Have a look at the picture gallery, I know I've been snap happy. Who wouldn't when the wildlife is just within a few feet of you. Such an amazing place.