Galápagos: Puerto Ayora
*storm-petrel cover photo by Athene Blakeman
We made landing on the other side of Santa Cruz island from where we last were (Cerro Dragon). We arrived on the solid ground of Puerto Ayora, the largest town in the Galápagos at around 12,000 people. It is also home to multiple giant tortoise breeding programs, including at the Charles Darwin Research Station. We had the day to wander the town, find internet (!) (we had no wifi on the boat), go to a corner store, and generally have a little freedom from the normally active itinerary.
A very unique Catholic church with beautiful stained class and murals — on Av. Charles Darwin nonetheless. And of course, it is no surprise to see St. Francis on the right side, the patron saint of animals (and namesake of the Franciscan order, of which this church is a member). Note the tortoise on the left looking over to him with curiosity, or longing?
A peek inside the church.
Some of the architecture on Ave Charles Darwin.
Iguanas are so nonchalant, and can rest anywhere they like without worrying about people bugging them.
At the fish market, where sea lions begged for scraps like dogs!
Looking out onto Academy Bay.
A bust of Darwin on the way to the research institute.
Up next: a trip to see the amazing Galápagos tortoises!
