We anchored right in front of majestic tuff cones in the protected cove known as Punta Pitt. After a wet landing, we hiked a steep trail in search of some endemic species, such as the San Cristobal lava lizard or the San Cristobal mockingbird but were pleasantly surprised to find blue-footed boobies nesting along our trail. One nest had a couple of healthy white fussy babies being fed by a parent. As we continued, a San Cristobal mockingbird came very close and explored our surrounding area. We also spotted magnificent frigate birds scouting for any potential catch – frigates are known to steal food from booby nests. At the end of our trail, we found several red-footed boobies nesting on the endemic succulents found here. This is the only species of boobies in the Galapagos that nest on trees. After the hike we returned to our landing beach and suited up for some great snorkeling and swimming. We had a couple sea lions and a large variety of fish as companions! Some of us chose to go deep-water snorkeling in the protected side of Pitt Islet. Both groups had an incredible time in the water.
After lunch we disembarked for an outing at Cerro Brujo. Along its coast we explored tide pools, observed Galapagos sea lions, brown pelicans and learned about the stunning geology of this area with its turquoise water and black lava fields. To close our day, we navigated to Kicker Rock. With wine in hand on the sun deck, we had the best seats in the house and enjoyed the stunning scenery as the sun set in the horizon.
