Santa Cruz Island, 6/20/2024, National Geographic Endeavour II
Aboard the
National Geographic Endeavour II
Galápagos
National Geographic Endeavour II anchored in Academy Bay, and we enjoyed a full day on Santa Cruz Island. A visit to the Charles Darwin Station gave us an opportunity to learn about rearing giant tortoises in captivity. We also learned about other conservation programs that are crucial for the restoration and protection of the islands.
Later, we learned about the culture and everyday life of Galapaguenos when we visited a local elementary school. Some guests visited traditional and hydroponic farms. After lunch, we enjoyed time with the giant tortoises as they traveled their migration route.
Karina López was born in Guayaquil, Ecuador where she received her bachelor’s degree in Tourism and Hospitality, a second technical degree as a Professional Guide of Ecuador, and a third diploma in French language at the Alliance Francaise.
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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.
Today we visited Santa Cruz Island, the home of 25,000 inhabitants that represent the largest human population of the Galapagos Islands. During the morning, our guests explored Puerto Ayora and learned everything about the work of the Charles Darwin Research Station. Later in the afternoon, we explored the highlands of the island where our guests enjoyed observing the Santa Cruz giant tortoise, Geochelone porteri, in their natural habitat.
