Today was the last day of an amazing expedition on board the National Geographic Islander. We anchored early in the morning inside a sunken caldera far north at Genovesa Island. This morning there was a kayak opportunity for early risers in a beautiful area along the cliffs protected from the wind. It was overcast which are perfect conditions to enjoy this unique landscape and its wildlife, as Genovesa is known as a bird paradise. What a delight to observe the sea birds and activity in the early hours.
After breakfast we went out for a wet landing at Darwin’s bay. A short and easy hike was offered at this visitor site which is full of wildlife. We left the best for the end! There were birds everywhere; swallow-tailed gulls, Nazca boobies with their juveniles, Darwin finches, Galapagos doves, and the red footed boobies. I love all of the Galapagos animals, however the red footed boobies are special. They have beautiful faces with blue beaks, pink masks, and the black outline underneath, it is just a joy for the eyes. The red footed boobies are the only species of boobies that nest on trees, bushes, and mangroves. The adaptations of their legs and feet make it possible. Our guests were transferred to a magical world and we took all the time we wanted here, spending two hours for less than a mile. Certainly this is a place to absorb the uniqueness of this pristine environment. Once back on board there was an option for deep water snorkeling along the cliffs of Genovesa, and today the waters were warmer, 74F and clear conditions. Our guests were very happy with the abundance of tropical, colorful fish.
In the afternoon we had a dry landing in an area known as Prince Phillip’s Steps. After climbing several uneven, natural steps we were standing at the Plateau with a great view of the island in front of us. As soon as we all were there we got to see a Short Eared owl land in a bush very close to our group and it stayed there observing all of us and then after satisfying its curiosity, took off to continue its flight further inland. On our path we observed a good number of Nazca and Red footed boobies, so close their tameness was overwhelming. During this interesting hike we got to see more Short Eared owls, and many more birds, such as Frigates, swallow tailed gulls, mocking birds, Galapagos doves, and storm petrels. Genovesa is a remote island, it has never been inhabited, and you can feel this from the first moment of your landing. The animals are intrigued by our presence, not fearful. If you thought you came to the Galapagos to observe wildlife, you were mistaken. You came here to be observed by the wildlife. This is the gift that Galapagos gives to you and you will keep this feeling for the rest of your life!
