Isabela and Fernandina Island, 4/22/2025, National Geographic Delfina
Aboard the
National Geographic Delfina
Galápagos
Today we spent the day exploring the western region of the Galapagos Islands. We visited Punta Vicente Roca on the north side of Isabela Island and Punta Espinoza on Fernandina Island. This was a remarkable day because we observed some of the most iconic endemic species in the Galapagos, such as the Galapagos penguins, Galapagos sea lions, marine iguanas, and flightless cormorants.
Today we visited Santa Cruz, the second largest island in the archipelago and the home to 25,000 people. During the morning we visited the Charles Darwin Research Station, where our guests learned all about the conservation work they have maintained since 1960. Afterward we explored the town of Puerto Ayora for some local culture and shopping. Later in the day we explored the highlands of the island, where our guests enjoyed observing the Santa Cruz giant tortoises (Geochelone porteri) at Manzanillo reserve.
Today we visited Santa Cruz, the second largest island of the archipelago and home to 25,000 people. In the morning our guests learned about the conservation efforts of the Charles Darwin Research Station, which have been ongoing since 1960. Afterward we explored the town of Puerto Ayora for some local culture and shopping. In the afternoon, we explored the highlands of the island where our guests enjoyed observing the Santa Cruz giant tortoises, Geochelone porter, at Manzanillo reserve.
Isabela is the biggest island of the Galapagos archipelago, and Sierra Negra volcano, the second biggest crater in the world, is part of it. Today we explored the caldera, descending a few hundred feet to walk on its floor. At the end of the trail we admired the forces of Mother Nature as we observed a sulfur mine where some fumaroles have formed. Once there you see the steam thrown up into the air; the scenario is astonishing, like a moonscape. Many volcanoes are formed here and there, the black lava on one side as a desert, and the soil eroded by the rain and wind on the other side. Lava new and old mixes and creates a magical world in front of our eyes. The highlands of Isabela are full of beauty and lush vegetation. We had a wonderful experience and our guests enjoyed every minute of our visit to this incredible place, from spotting penguins and sharks on the coast, to vermillion flycatchers and finches at the summit.
