San Cristobal Island, 1/24/2023, National Geographic Islander II
Aboard the
National Geographic Islander II
Galápagos
San Cristobal has its own giant tortoise population, as well as endemic lava lizards and snakes. These are examples of adaptive radiation in the archipelago.
We have had a successful week full of great memories. The unique and friendly animals found in this group of islands are not found anywhere else on our planet.
Walter was born in a very small town on the mainland of Ecuador. His first trip to the Galápagos was when he was 12 years old, visiting friends and aunt, who had moved to the islands. From the first moment he saw the Islands, he fell in love with the...
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Today our guests explored Santa Cruz Island. Santa Cruz Island is one of the most biologically diverse islands in the archipelago. It is home to the Galapagos National Park Service and the Charles Darwin Research Station. Together, these two institutions represent a hub for scientific study and conservation efforts that focus the attention on the restoration of the islands.
Our expedition to Punta Pitt on San Cristobal Island was an unforgettable journey. At dawn, we walked along a path surrounded by volcanic formations, revealing stunning landscapes at every turn. The striking contrast between the dark rocks and the lush vegetation immersed us in the raw beauty of nature. Throughout the hike, we had the privilege of observing blue-footed and red-footed boobies, finches, and mockingbirds up close. The presence of these majestic and unbothered birds fostered a deep connection with the environment. The beauty of the scenery, the refreshing air, and the harmony with the flora and fauna made this experience truly transformative, leaving a lasting impression on us. During the afternoon, we visited one of the most beautiful beaches in Galapagos, Cerro Brujo, where we enjoyed a relaxing stretching session accompanied by the sound of the waves. The beauty of the landscape made this expedition an unforgettable experience.
Our day at Española Island began with a kayak session at sunrise in Gardner Bay. It’s home to one of the most beautiful white sand beaches in the Galápagos, surrounded by turquoise waters. After that, we went snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters. Later, we spent some time on the beach where we were warmly greeted by a colony of Galápagos sea lions. After a refreshing lunch on board, we headed to Punta Suárez, a site renowned for its dramatic cliffs and thriving seabird colonies. As our hike came to an end, we were treated to a breathtaking sunset—a perfect conclusion to an unforgettable day.
