OVERVIEW :
Mockingbirds & History Journey
The first populated island is situated on the south east of the Galápagos Islands. Its area is 173 sq mk (107.4 sq mi)
and its highlight point is founded at the tip of the Cerro Pajas. It was first named Charles Island, and then Santa Maria island, until the Ecuadorian government of Juan José Flores change it to Floreana Island. This island welcomed sailors, whale hunters, and many other adventurers that reached it in search of fresh water, tortoises, end even isolation. Peculiar stories as well as Baroness and the messaging system of the pirates (Post Office Bay-1793) are
attractions which make difference contrasting other islands. This exotic and natural island is excellent to practice snorkel and diving. Devil´s Crown is perfect to enjoy swimming and snorkeling next to the sharks, corals, tropical fishes, stingrays, sealions, marine tortoises, penguins, and countless types of marine life. Birding journey lovers can visit Cormorant Point, where our guests observe the best lamingo lagoon in the Galápagos. Another heaven to visit is Asilo de la Paz, a hill 450 meters high with amazing views, like the cave of pirates and the freshwater spring surrounded by various giant tortoises. Cerro Alieri is especially interesting for plant fanatics as there are than 48 different species of them. This endemic place also gives the opportunity to see Darwin´s finches, mimosas, mangroves and blue-footed boobies. In this island, Charles Darwin collects the Floreana Mockingbird, later to realize the difference in between the four species to be found in the archipelago
Very early in the morning, at 7:30 am, after the fresh delicious breakfast, starts the trip to Floreana Island which has become famous because the small families there have preserved stories about Patrick Watkins, the first man that lived permanently in the Galapagos and an indulgent baroness (associated with a fascinating murder mystery), so these two stories have become part of their culture. Both people´s stories and island´s wildlife are going to make for a magic visit on Floreana island. The trip consists of visiting the caves created by pirates seeking water and shelter and also the giant tortoises. A beautiful view point over the island and the bay allow
closer looks of the red-billed tropicbirds nesting in the crevices. When snorkeling near a black sand beach, it is possible to swim next to sea lions, green turtles and possibly next the adorable Galápagos penguins. Devil´s Crown, eroded by the waves, is a haven for seabirds such as boobies, pelicans, and frigate birds. Birdwatching fans could learn more about islets Campion and Gardner-by-Floreana, the last two refuges for the Floreana Mockingbird. Hot lunch will be provided in one of the island´s restaurants or aboard.
It is recommended to wear a wetsuit in order to neutralize the sea temperature because it falls under 20ºC from September to December and it is up of 27ºC from January to August.