This week we are going to sail around this archipelago on board the National Geographic Islander and after spending the whole afternoon at Cerro Brujo on San Cristobal Island, we sailed toward Española Island where we spent the whole day at a few visitor sites on the Island. The island is one of the oldest in the archipelago and that is the reason why the flora and fauna is very unique to this specific volcano.
With a group of early risers we went out kayaking to enjoy the geology of Gardener Bay. We also had the chance to observe Pacific green sea turtles as well as white spotted eagle rays mating throughout the bay. The outing was such a peaceful and special time spent in nature. We also had the chance to observe boobies, pelicans and frigate birds fishing at the same time.
Later in the morning we went out again for deep water snorkeling and beach activities at the same time, and in all these activities we had a chance to see playful Galapagos sea lions and many colorful fish, too. It was a very busy morning and after a very well deserved Ecuadorian lunch we set sail towards Punta Suarez for our last adventure of the day. This visitor site has one of the highest colonies of birds in Galapagos due to its ideal conditions for accessing food and nesting facilities for many species.
Espanola is one of the Islands that was severely damage by many different species of animals being introduced, but after a monumental restoration we can say that this Island is very close to finding its own ecological equilibrium in nature with its own top predators, which are very important to form the food chain.
Today was filled with new experiences and wonderful encounters!
