- Bay formation: 1954;
- Address: Ecuador, Galapagos Islands, Isabela Island.
Visiting the bay of Urbina is one of the mandatory points in any Galapagossa cruise. This small bay is located in the western part of the largest island of the archipelago - Isabela , at the foot of the active volcano Alcedo.
The bay of Urbina is a unique geological monument of nature
As you approach the coast, you will see the amazing contrast of a white sandy beach and dark volcanic lava formations. Such a difference in color and texture is due to unique geological processes that took place very recently. In 1954, the ocean floor in this area suddenly rose more than 4 meters. The tide was so fast that many animals just did not have time to hide in depth: the remains of skeletons of sharks, sea turtles and lobsters are still lying on the seashore, used as a base for bird nests. Darkened by the action of air corals attract tourists who want to acquire a souvenir to remember, but this venture is useless - corals are very fragile and literally crumbling in their hands. The width of the shoal extends to a kilometer, most of it is occupied by dark volcanic sand. Here and there in the sand there are signs with the inscription "Stop". So the island's administration warns of a large number of snail's nests in this place. On the shore of the bay, there is something to do: photograph pelicans, cormorants and crabs, swim in warm water along with tropical fish and rays, dive. Then all go deep into the island along one of two paths, 1 or 3 km long.
| | |
Flora and fauna of the bay
Near the bay there is a population of 4 thousand turtles, iguanas and flightless cormorants. A small number of sea lions, penguins, pelicans and other representatives of the local fauna, during a short walk you will see them all. In ancient times, pirates caught turtles and were taken to the ships as food, eggs of turtles and iguanas were a treat for imported dogs from the mainland. Now all animals are protected by law and in complete safety. Good-natured giant turtles and bright yellow iguanas are the most interesting targets for camera lenses. In the branches a lot of birds breed, including the finch of Darwin. Observations of several species of this bird allowed the famous scientist to substantiate the theory of evolution. By the way, finches save iguanas and turtles from ticks, and those gratefully substitute under the beak of small birds all kinds of parts of the body. It's amazing how wise everything is conceived by nature!
| | | |
Having seen along the trail plants with fruits resembling small green apples and exuding apple flavor, do not rush to touch them. It is nothing but a formidable martinella - one of the most dangerous trees on the planet. With its juice, the Indians moistened arrows, making them deadly to the enemy. This plant, like the Galapagos cotton with large yellow flowers, is not endemic, as it was imported to the island from the outside.
How to get there?
To reach the bay of Urbina is easy if you first get to Isabela Island . This can be done by boat from the port of Puerto Iowa on the island of Santa Cruz . The trip lasts several hours. There is no tourist infrastructure in the bay, several hotels are located on the opposite extremity of the island, in the village of Puerto Villamil . In a walk on the outskirts of the bay, be sure to take water, as the temperature keeps at a level of 25-29 degrees. For walking it is better not to wear yellow clothes - it can attract wasps.
| | | |
| | | |
