We left Quito on yesterday morning arriving at San Cristóbal Airport around noon local time (one hour earlier than EST). After clearing inspections, we were spirited off to our hotel (Paradiaso Insular) to unpack. A nice lunch at The Playa Restaurant was followed by a long walk where we saw many Galápagos sea lions, 
a few marine iguanas and lots of seabirds flying right through the town. We visited the interpretative center at GAIAS, a research institution. From there, we walked through the arid woodland to the height of land for a great view. On the way back, we stopped at a rocky shore and went snorkeling. 
Some students were able to swim with sea lions and a sea turtle. Back to the La Playa for dinner and then to bed for an early start.
At 6 AM this morning, we went to breakfast and then boarded two boats for the 2-3 hour cruise to Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz. The ride was a bit rough but we all arrived in reasonably good shape. After checking into the Mainao Hotel, we toured the Charles Darwin Research Institution to see the captive breeding program 
and to admire Lonesome George, the last of his kind.
After lunch, we boarded a bus and visited the highlands of Santa Cruz. We stopped at Los Hemolos (the twins), two large depressions caused by the release of volcanic gases. The forest is dominated by the plant, Scalesia, a 40-foot tall member of the daisy family! 
We also saw
Small-billed Ground-Finches (pictured), Galápagos Doves (pictured) and a Dark-billed Cuckoo.
Next we went through a lava tunnel, mostly greater than 10-feet high in most cases although we did have to do a belly crawl for a couple of yards in one place. Along the way, we saw a couple of Galápagos Tortoises. We saw many more tortoises close by at the Ranch Primacia, a private turtle preserve. Ice cream at the gift shop afterward hit the spot. Back to town for a dinner at El Restaurante Chocolate (and yes the chocolate dessert was excellent!).
Tomorrow, we are up early to depart at 5 AM or 6 AM for Bartholomé, a 2-3 hour boat ride north of Santa Cruz.