Española Island
We began our last full day in this one-of-a-kind natural paradise very early in the morning. Before breakfast we had a sea kayak outing along the western coastline of Gardner Bay. Weather conditions were almost ideal for there was practically no wind and the tide was at its lowest. After breakfast, we went to snorkel along the cindery cliffs of Gardner Islet. It was great for we had the luck to spot a large pod of Golden rays among many other fish species.
We returned to the ship for warm showers and a comforting cup of hot chocolate. With dry clothes on we left the ship again to go to one of the most pristine beaches of Galapagos, Gardner Beach. At this beautiful white sand beach the hundreds of sea lions outnumber visitors. The turquoise waters merged with the surrounding skies making a perfect silent setting. Many of us reflected on all the great sightings and experiences we have had on this expedition. Some just took a stroll along the beach in communion with Nature and its beauty. Today, in particular, it was difficult to leave the beach for it was truly magical, idyillical I must say.
In the afternoon, the ship was repositioned to a different location: Punta Suarez. We observed many different animal species that included Española mockingbirds, Galápagos doves, Darwin finches, Oystercatchers and even a Galápagos Hawk. The stars of the afternoon were without any doubt the gorgeous waved albatross that are endemic to Española. We were really excited to observe these magnificent birds. Once we returned to National Geographic Islander, our home for the week, we felt content with everything we have experienced, not only during this day but during the whole week in this magical archipelago. It is sincerely very rewarding to witness how happy our visitors were this week. Their hearts and minds were replenished with the positive energies that only a paradise like the Galápagos can evoke.
