Walter Perez, Naturalist/Certified Photo Instructor
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Daily Expedition
Reports
13 Feb 2020
Plazas Island and Santa Fe, 2/13/2020, National Geographic Islander
Aboard the
National Geographic Islander
Galápagos
Our exploration of the Galapagos islands has led us to Plazas Islet today. We had the opportunity to see our first conolophis cristatus land Iguanasm, and they were all over the place eating opuntia cactus! Others were seen fighting for a bite. Later in the afternoon we visited Santa Fe Island for some kayaking in the beautiful bay surrounded by marine turtles and rays. We then hiked along a trail and spotted our second species of land iguana, the conolophus palidus.
Back on board the activities continued with recaps, and naturalist shared new information about the Galapagos Islands. There is a lot to learn aboard National Geographic Islander!
Ixora was born in the Galapagos Islands, back when the streets were made of sand and gravel. Void of TV and tablets, her childhood friends and pristine natural surroundings made for an inspiring upbringing. She was always drawn to the ocean and her l...
Walter was born in a very small town on the mainland of Ecuador. His first trip to the Galápagos was when he was 12 years old, visiting friends and aunt, who had moved to the islands. From the first moment he saw the Islands, he fell in love with the...
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On the last day of our expedition aboard National Geographic Islander II , our exploration led us to captivating Genovesa Island. Genovesa is often referred to as "Bird Island" due to the remarkable abundance of avian species. Our day was marked by immersive encounters with unique wildlife and dramatic volcanic landscapes, and we left with a deeper understanding of the island's ecological significance. Our day began with a Zodiac ride to Darwin Bay, a stunning, horseshoe-shaped bay bordered by towering cliffs and pristine white sands. Stepping ashore, we were greeted by a symphony of birdcalls. Nazca and red-footed boobies soared above while frigatebirds circled the skies, their distinctive silhouettes a testament to their mastery of the air. A leisurely hike along the sandy trails brought us in close proximity to the island's inhabitants. Marine iguanas basked in the sun, seemingly undisturbed by our presence, while swallow-tailed gulls and lava gulls perched on the rocks, offering us photo opportunities against the backdrop of azure waters. After the walk, we had the chance to enjoy snorkeling and kayaking. In the afternoon, we ventured to El Barranco, also known as Prince Philip's Steps. This dramatic, cliffside location showcases the island's unique geological formations. A challenging hike led us through a seabird colony, where masked boobies and storm petrels nested in the crevices of the rocky terrain. Breathtaking views from the top of the cliffs provided a glimpse into the island's volcanic origins and the vast expanse of the surrounding ocean. As the sun began to set, we were treated to a remarkable sight—swooping frigatebirds returning to their nests, silhouetted against the crimson hues of the sky. The serene beauty of this moment was a fitting end to our exploration of Genovesa Island, a place where the cycles of life and nature unfold in harmony.
Our day of exploration brought us to enchanting Chinese Hat and Sullivan Bay, two distinct locations in the Galápagos archipelago. The day was marked by thrilling encounters with charismatic penguins and playful sea lions during our snorkeling adventures. Our day began with a visit to the iconic Chinese Hat, a small islet characterized by its unique volcanic cone and crescent shape. We were greeted by a panoramic view of the surrounding azure waters. The highlight of the day awaited us underwater. Donning our snorkeling gear, we immersed ourselves in the crystal-clear waters alongside a colony of Galápagos penguins. These pint-sized swimmers showcased their agility as they darted and dove around us, their sleek bodies effortlessly cutting through the currents. Observing these rare penguins in their natural habitat was a privilege that underscores the Galápagos' unique biodiversity. The charismatic sea lions approached us with an undeniable curiosity. Gliding alongside them, we witnessed their acrobatic maneuvers and seemingly boundless energy. Interacting with these inquisitive marine mammals created a profound connection to the underwater world, leaving an indelible impression on our hearts. In the afternoon, we set our course for Sullivan Bay, known for its striking lava flows and dramatic landscapes. Walking across the alien-like terrain, we marveled at the evidence of past volcanic activity and the resulting formations. Our guides explained the geological intricacies, revealing the island's tumultuous past. As we sailed away from these enchanting islands, we carried with us memories of a day filled with wonder, awe, and a newfound connection to the incredible life that thrives beneath the waves.
Our expedition on board National Geographic Islander II took us to captivating South Plaza and Santa Fe Islands, where we were treated to an extraordinary day of wildlife encounters, breathtaking landscapes, and a deeper understanding of the islands’ unique ecosystems. Our day began with a Zodiac ride from our ship to South Plaza Island, a haven for observing land iguanas and seabirds in their natural habitats. The island's dramatic cliffs and vibrant vegetation provided a stunning backdrop for our explorations. As we disembarked, we were greeted by the sight of colorful land iguanas basking in the sun. Their colors ranged from golden yellows to orange. Our guests learned fascinating insights into the iguanas' behavior and their role in the island's delicate ecosystem. Walking along the rocky trails, we encountered the island's endemic flora, including the unique Sesuvium that turns brilliant red during the dry season. The cliffs were alive with the calls of swallow-tailed gulls. Our exploration also brought us to a mesmerizing viewpoint, where we could appreciate the stunning panoramas of the turquoise waters and neighboring islands. In the afternoon, we set our course for Santa Fe Island, known for its pristine beaches and endemic Santa Fe land iguanas. Guests had the chance to snorkel off the coast of Santa Fe, which provided an enchanting glimpse into the underwater world of the Galápagos. Swimming alongside playful sea lions and encountering a diverse array of marine life, including colorful fish, golden rays, and inquisitive sea turtles, was a highlight of the day. The crystal-clear waters allowed us to appreciate the intricate beauty of the underwater ecosystems that thrive around these islands. For the last part of the afternoon, we landed on the white sandy shores of Santa Fe Island, where we were greeted by Galapagos sea lions. Once on the trail, guests observed Santa Fe land iguanas, larger than their South Plaza counterparts, as they gracefully moved among the cacti. By sunset, we returned to National Geographic Islander II , our home away from home.
