North Seymour and Jervis Islands, 7/8/2018, National Geographic Endeavour II
Aboard the
National Geographic Endeavour II
Galápagos
This morning we visited North Seymour Island where, after a
dry landing, we saw land iguanas, marine iguanas, fur seals, Galapagos sea
lions, blue-footed boobies, swallow-tailed gulls, and both species of frigatebirds
nesting. Is a small island that has a lot of attractions for our guests. After
the visit, we sailed towards Rabida Island, an old red island where we
snorkeled and walked along the sand at sunset. It was a magical day in paradise.
Fabian Bucheli studied at the German School in Quito, graduated from the University of California with a bachelor of science in administration, and earned a master’s degree in international management from Thunderbird School of Global Management in A...
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Dawn in Santa Cruz greeted us with the gentle sound of the ocean and the promise of a day filled with natural wonders. We explored the vital conservation efforts at the Fausto Llerena Tortoise Breeding Center where these majestic creatures remind us of the importance of preserving biodiversity. In the afternoon, our expedition took us to the heart of the island, El Manzanillo Ranch, located in the farming zone of Santa Cruz, where giant tortoises roam freely in their natural habitat. With each step the crunch of leaves beneath our boots immersed us in a primitive and fascinating world. We then explored the impressive volcanic sinkholes of Los Gemelos, located in the highlands, surrounded by the mystical Scalesia cloud forest.
We arrived at the north of Santa Cruz Island, and we witnessed that there had been heavy rains in recent days, leaving this part of the island covered in green. It was like an artist’s palette, with all the shades of green captured in this amazing landscape.
After breakfast, we set out for Urbina Bay, located on the western side of Isabela Island. Just a few meters from the shore, we encountered several giant tortoises resting in rainwater pools left by the downpour from the night before. The rainy season is truly a blessing for all terrestrial animals, and the tortoises are no exception, taking advantage of the fresh water and lush vegetation. In the afternoon, we navigated north toward Punta Vicente Roca. At 2:15 PM, we embarked on an unforgettable snorkeling experience along the island’s coastal cliffs. We had the incredible opportunity to swim alongside playful sea lions, Galápagos penguins, flightless cormorants, and sea turtles. Our final excursion of the day was a panga ride around Ecuador Volcano. This outing turned into a unique adventure as an unexpected rain shower added a special touch to the experience. Our guests donned ponchos and embraced the moment, making the ride even more memorable as we explored this remote and stunning landscape. Just before 6:00 PM, we marked a significant milestone, crossing the Equator! We celebrated this special moment with a traditional flag-crossing ceremony, accompanied by lively music and a fun round of limbo.
