Hiking Dragon Hill in the Galapagos

The trail here was in great shape. There were a few places around the ponds that we
had to rock hop, and a few spiderwebs to contend with along the trail. It seemed like no one had been here in a few days.

Selfie of me pointing at Dragon Hill.

Today was a hike up Dragon Hill. Located on the coast of Santa Cruz Island in the Galapagos. We landed on a spit of sand, fringed with lava rocks. Inland was low lying trees and green shrubby bushes. The trail winded its way past some inland ponds. I was told that traditionally there would be flamingos here, but not now after the unusual weather conditions lately. We passed interesting cactus plants as we followed the trail through the bush. We did come across several basking land iguanas. Their yellow scales give them a dragon-like appearance. As you can imagine, this is where the hill gets its name.

Such a good mix of warm tones and cold tones in the same photograph. Dragon Hill can be seen in the background.

The hikes itself is quite relaxing and easy. However, the landscapes are stunning. You can see a panorama of Santa Cruz Island from the top of Dragon Hill, as well as a good lookout for other islands in the archipelago. We did this hike in the late afternoon, so the setting sun lent some drama to the landscape pictures. One of my favorite moments came at the very end of the hike, when we were back on the beach. I was taking photos of Dragon Hill in the distance, when I noticed a marine iguana, perfectly still and camouflaged in a tidepool. It takes a second to spot him in the photograph. I always like having interesting foregrounds and backgrounds in my landscape shots.

Look who is hiding in the tide pool!

You pretty much need a boat to access this part of the coastline. But it is well worth the travel to get here for the stunning scenery. And as always here in the Galapagos Islands, the wildlife is not too shabby either.

Photo of our luxury expedition ship, La Pinta. This is how we are traveling around the archipelago.

Onboard I have to balance the delicious food and cocktails with my desire to not miss any adventures!

No flamingos today.

Interesting foliage to go with the cool wildlife on our hike today.

These inland ponds made for some stunning photographs.

I like how the dramatic skyscape was reflected in the puddles along the trail here.

Back at the shoreline, admiring the sunset over the Pacific Ocean.

Dragon Hill view from the beach.

The person who made up my room everyday left funny towel animals like this for me to find on my return.

Nice, smooth drop off today for our hike up Dragon Hill.

Low lying shrubs dominated the landscape.

Some of the tallest plants along the shoreline were actually cactus.

Our destination for today's hike, Dragon Hill, on Santa Cruz Island, Galapagos.

As always, keep traveling, and keep posting!

• Dai Mar