Dream Trip - Galapagos Islands Part 2

On the second day of our trip to the Galapagos Islands we walked into Puerto Ayora for breakfast. We found a small restaurant (Restaurante Kale) where there were quite a few policemen having breakfast there. We figured they were locals so it must be good. We got our first taste of Ecuadorian food here when we ordered bolones - fried mashed plantain shaped into balls with add-ins such as cheese and pork. We also had eggs, beef and jugo de tomate de arbol (tree tomato or tamarillo juice). Everything was very tasty. Needless to say, we returned there several times during our stay. After breakfast, we went to the market for fresh produce. After returning to the apartment, we were ready to set out on our excursion.

The Charles Darwin Research Station was a walkable distance from where we were staying. We headed there to see the tortoises. On the way there we discovered the Jardin Ceramica or the Ceramic Garden. This place was great. It was a small park-like area. It had walls filled with tile, whole tiles, and pieces of tiles that formed scenes and interesting art. Also pieces of cups, plates, and other adornments. There was a group of little houses. Everything was made from pieces of tile. It was a fun place. Continuing on the road to the tortoises, there were two small beaches which we checked out for a later visit. 

Entrance to Jardin Ceramica

                                                                                                                            

                                                                                                                                                                                                                              

   

The Charles Darwin Research Station is a biological research facility that is dedicated to the preservation and conservation of the Galapagos Islands. There were several tortoise areas and I enjoyed seeing the tortoises and the land iguanas that were there. We saw some tortoises mating. It was pretty strange to see. The female kept her head tucked inside the shell and the male had his neck stretched down so he was looking down at her. I don't know if it would be appropriate to post a photo so I will let you use your imagination.

It was a very hot and humid day. After taking lots of photos we returned to the apartment, showered and relaxed for the remainder of the day. We had fish chowder for dinner. It was delicious.

There was a problem connecting to the wi-fi at the apartment. It was a little annoying at first but after a while we got thinking about exactly where we were and how remote it was and decided that  it didn't make a lot of difference whether we were connected or not. There was too much to see and do in this amazing place. 

La manzanilla de la muerte - little apple of death