Española Island, 5/29/2023, National Geographic Islander II
Aboard the
National Geographic Islander II
Galápagos
To the southeast corner of the Galapagos lies Espanola, an island dating from 3.5 to 5 million years ago. It contains a high degree of endemism with a number of species of animals that only live here. The north has one of the most beautiful beaches in the world with turquoise water and white sand where sea lion colonies hang out. The eastern part of the island has large colonies of nesting Nazca boobies, colorful marine iguanas, and majestic waved albatrosses, which only nest here. By far, one of the most fantastic opportunities to see wildlife in its purest state.
Today we visited Española Island, the southernmost—and one of the most spectacular—of all the Galápagos Islands. Known for its unique wildlife and dramatic landscapes, Española offered us a day full of unforgettable encounters. In the morning, we landed at Gardner Bay, where a long stretch of white coral sand welcomed us. Galápagos sea lions lounged along the shore, completely unfazed by our presence. Offshore, we snorkeled in the clear waters among colorful reef fish and Pacific green sea turtles. Playful sea lions swirled around us like underwater acrobats. In the afternoon, we explored Punta Suárez, one of the best wildlife viewing sites in the entire archipelago. The trail led us through colonies of Nazca boobies and blue-footed boobies, some engaged in nesting or courtship dances. We also witnessed waved albatrosses, many sitting on eggs or gliding in the wind above the cliffs. The highlight for many was watching a pair of albatrosses perform their elaborate, synchronized courtship ritual, full of beak clacking and head swaying. As we approached the cliff’s edge, we were treated to the dramatic sight of waves crashing against the rocks and the famous blowhole, which sent bursts of water high into the air. With seabirds soaring overhead and marine iguanas sunbathing in every direction, the magic of Española was on full display.
Today the guests of National Geographic Islander II had a chance to snorkel at Champion Islet, just off Floreana Island. It was a breathtaking expedition to one of the most vibrant marine ecosystems in the Galapagos. As soon as we slipped into the water, we were greeted by schools of colorful fish and playful Galapagos sea lions.
On the first full day of our expedition, we visited Bartolomé, a famous island located on the eastern side of Santiago Island. We had an early start with a morning walk and a Zodiac exploration. After a walk up 372 stairs, we were rewarded with an iconic view of the Galápagos, made famous in the movie “Master and Commander.” We finished our visit with an underwater exploration to observe Bartolomé’s marine life. In the afternoon, we continued toward the western side of Santa Cruz Island to explore Cerro Dragón, also known as Dragon Hill. The site is named after the endemic Galapagos land iguana. We took a 1.7 mile walk through a dry forest to spot the iconic iguanas and many endemic locusts.
