Isabela and Fernandina Islands, 4/12/2023, National Geographic Islander II
Aboard the
National Geographic Islander II
Galápagos
Today, National Geographic Islander II explored the westernmost islands in the Galapagos. These islands are not only remote but also spectacular with unique lifeforms and dramatic landscapes.
Our guests observed the very elusive Galapagos penguin, flightless cormorants, and Galapagos fur seals among many more rare species on Isabela and Fernandina Islands.
We spent a fantastic day exploring via Zodiac tours, snorkeling, and hiking. We enjoyed nature at its fullest. Today was another grand day in the Galapagos.
Socrates was raised on Santa Cruz Island located in the heart of Galapagos Archipelago. He had a childhood filled with swimming, scuba diving, rock climbing and volunteering in conservation projects, so it was natural for him to grow very passionate ...
Our day began with a wildlife-packed morning on South Plazas Island, where we watched with fascination as seabirds used the updraft to soar back and forth along the cliffs. Afterwards, we kayaked along the neighboring island of North Plazas. Sea lions clambered up the boulder-strewn shoreline, and lava herons hunted crabs. We navigated to Santa Fe Island in the afternoon and enjoyed a snorkeling excursion. Curious sea lions played with each other, and multiple Pacific green sea turtles swam by serenely. Much to our amazement, a school of eleven spotted eagle rays glided by in formation! We went ashore in the late afternoon to explore Santa Fe’s unique landscape and giant opuntia cactus forest. What a wonderful end to our day!
Our day began with an early morning landing at Punta Pitt, located on the northeastern tip of San Cristóbal Island. Known for its striking eroded tuff formations, the island rewarded us with a panoramic view of the bay. We were fortunate to see a couple of blue-footed boobies in full courtship mode, including sky-pointing and whistling. Meanwhile, frigatebirds soared overhead. After the hike, we cooled off with a snorkeling session and were treated to playful sea lions. In the afternoon, we visited the iconic Cerro Brujo (Witch’s Hill), a site known for its impressive white coral sand beach and crystal-clear turquoise waters. We encountered wildlife here, including marine iguanas, oystercatchers, and sea lions. We finished the day by circumnavigating the remains of an old volcano and one of the most iconic landscapes in Galapagos, Kicker Rock, which was serenely lit up at sunset.
Today’s expedition took us to one of the crown jewels of the Galápagos Islands, Española, renowned for its incredible biodiversity and striking landscapes. The day offered us a blend of relaxing encounters with marine life and dramatic displays of wildlife along one of the most iconic trails in the archipelago. Our morning began at Gardner Bay, a breathtaking stretch of white sand beach framed by turquoise waters and black lava outcrops. Upon landing, we were greeted by a colony of Galápagos sea lions lounging comfortably along the shoreline. Some curious individuals came close to inspect us as we walked along the beach. In the afternoon, we landed at Punta Suárez, where a starkly different environment awaited. The rocky coastline and dramatic cliffs provided a stunning backdrop for one of the most exciting wildlife hikes in the Galápagos. Our walk took us through nesting grounds of Nazca boobies. The highlight, however, was the waved albatross, endemic to Española and one of the most charismatic species in the archipelago. We were fortunate to observe their fascinating courtship displays—elegant and theatrical, with head bobbing, beak clacking, and sky-pointing rituals.
