Española Island, 7/22/2024, National Geographic Islander II
Aboard the
National Geographic Islander II
Galápagos
Española Island formed 3-5 million years ago through volcanic activity. Over time, it has become home to unique wildlife, including the Galapagos sea lions and waved albatross. The island’s unique ecology and isolated location allowed these species to evolve distinct characteristics.
Salvador Cazar studied biology at the Universidad Nacional Del Sur, Bahía Blanca, in Argentina and at the Catholic University of Ecuador. Between 1988 and 1994, Salvador worked as a naturalist and tour leader for several national and international to...
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Today was the last full day of our expedition and we explored Santiago Island. We started with a pre breakfast kayaking along Buccaneer Cove, where later in the morning we explored by snorkeling and by glass bottom boat. This place was full of wildlife and dramatic volcanic scenery. During the afternoon we went to Puerto Egas, where some guests decided to go for a hike and others decided to enjoy a relaxing afternoon at the beach. Sea lions were rolling around the shore and blue-footed boobies were plunging along the coast. What a great way to finish the day. Our guests will likely remember this adventure forever.
We arrived in the western realm of the Galápagos Islands. Early in the morning, National Geographic Islander II circumnavigated an emerging volcano called Roca Redonda, a great place to observe different kinds of seabirds. After breakfast we crossed the equator as we were navigating towards Punta Vicente Roca. We had the chance to observe Ecuador Volcano, which only partially remains due to the last eruption when half of it sank into the ocean. To complete the morning we had an incredible Zodiac ride followed by a snorkel excursion in the company of penguins, turtles, and sea lions. Later in the day we moved locations to the youngest island and home of the largest population of marine iguanas. We explored the shores, finishing off an amazing day here in the Galápagos Islands.
These two islands are spectacular places with unique characteristics. North Seymour is a flat and small island full of wildlife, such as frigates that nest all year around, blue-footed boobies, seagulls, marine and land iguanas, and a big colony of sea lions. In contrast, Rabida is an older secondary volcano and well known for having the most beautiful red sand beach where sea lions rest. It also has a small brackish lagoon with flamingoes, pintails, and other migratory birds. We had a wonderful experience exploring these two spots, by land and by sea - going for walks, snorkeling, Zodiac riding, and kayaking. Our tools of exploration were at the ready to facilitate our adventures.
