Espanola Island
When we woke up this morning, we were already anchored near by one of the most beautiful beaches in the Galápagos Islands, Gardner Bay. The last opportunity to enjoy deep water snorkeling presented itself today at an area called “turtle rock.” We were delighted to encounter cornetfish, trumpetfish, grunts, spadefish, hundreds of striped salemas, king angelfish, schools of razor surgeonfish, sting rays and a jewel moray. There was even time for kayaking along the southern coast of the bay, and last but not least, time to spend at the beach as well. The beach area was perhaps one of the most memorable moments for the kids traveling with us this week. It was simply “awesome” as they called it.
Our activities continued after a short navigation to the eastern side of Espanola Island. The afternoon at Punta Suarez was one of the highlights of this trip. As soon as we disembarked, we were welcomed by sunbathing marine iguanas and sea lions.The Espanola mocking birds were following us. No matter where we looked at, there was something going on. Nazca boobies were in our way and not so far away was the Galápagos hawk, fearlessly perched on top of a bush. It was great to finally see the top predator of this island. We were also able to see and understand why all the animals are afraid of him… especially when the hawk decided to have its meal, a small marine iguana! As we continued our walk, we spotted the largest sea bird of the Galápagos, the waved albatross. There were many of them incubating their eggs, but we were very fortunate to be on time to see how one of the eggs cracked and the chick was making his way out of it! Just unbelievable!
Not too far away from the albatross nesting area a thunder like sound got our attention. We made our way to the cliff to discover the famous blow hole very active. We decided to stop and contemplate one of the wonders of the island briefly, and then we continued our stroll towards the albatross airport. As funny as it sounds, this area is nothing else but a cliff where the albatrosses take off from in an admirable jump based on trust! Like if this hasn’t been enough, our way back was delayed by a couple of albatrosses displaying their courtship dance abilities. This complicated ritual/dance was the best moment of our afternoon. We were very happy and satisfied with this precious day that Mother Nature gave us. The last day of our expedition concluded, as well as the end of an outstanding week!
When we woke up this morning, we were already anchored near by one of the most beautiful beaches in the Galápagos Islands, Gardner Bay. The last opportunity to enjoy deep water snorkeling presented itself today at an area called “turtle rock.” We were delighted to encounter cornetfish, trumpetfish, grunts, spadefish, hundreds of striped salemas, king angelfish, schools of razor surgeonfish, sting rays and a jewel moray. There was even time for kayaking along the southern coast of the bay, and last but not least, time to spend at the beach as well. The beach area was perhaps one of the most memorable moments for the kids traveling with us this week. It was simply “awesome” as they called it.
Our activities continued after a short navigation to the eastern side of Espanola Island. The afternoon at Punta Suarez was one of the highlights of this trip. As soon as we disembarked, we were welcomed by sunbathing marine iguanas and sea lions.The Espanola mocking birds were following us. No matter where we looked at, there was something going on. Nazca boobies were in our way and not so far away was the Galápagos hawk, fearlessly perched on top of a bush. It was great to finally see the top predator of this island. We were also able to see and understand why all the animals are afraid of him… especially when the hawk decided to have its meal, a small marine iguana! As we continued our walk, we spotted the largest sea bird of the Galápagos, the waved albatross. There were many of them incubating their eggs, but we were very fortunate to be on time to see how one of the eggs cracked and the chick was making his way out of it! Just unbelievable!
Not too far away from the albatross nesting area a thunder like sound got our attention. We made our way to the cliff to discover the famous blow hole very active. We decided to stop and contemplate one of the wonders of the island briefly, and then we continued our stroll towards the albatross airport. As funny as it sounds, this area is nothing else but a cliff where the albatrosses take off from in an admirable jump based on trust! Like if this hasn’t been enough, our way back was delayed by a couple of albatrosses displaying their courtship dance abilities. This complicated ritual/dance was the best moment of our afternoon. We were very happy and satisfied with this precious day that Mother Nature gave us. The last day of our expedition concluded, as well as the end of an outstanding week!
