The last day of our expedition brought us to Santiago Island; here Charles Darwin spent nine days on land walking and exploring, and we were following his footsteps. In the morning, we visited the beautiful beach of Espumilla. An easy stroll along the mangroves and soft sand was offered before breakfast. We observed blue-footed boobies diving and Galapagos hawks. Afterwards, we enjoyed kayaking at Buccaneer’s Cove with great weather conditions: the sea was smooth, and the water was crystal clear. It was a great opportunity for deep water snorkeling with colorful fish and huge schools of sardines and black striped salemas. The afternoon brought us to Puerto Egas, a great place to enjoy time at the black, sandy beach. We also offered an optional amazing hike along the coastal area. We became amazed explorers, as Galapagos is a learning experience!
12/6/2023
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National Geographic Islander II
Isabela and Fernandina
Our day began with a mesmerizing exploration of Roca Redonda and Punta Vicente Roca. The morning sun cast a golden glow on the towering cliffs that define this part of Isabela Island. We navigated along the coast, observing the diverse marine life that thrives in these nutrient-rich waters. Notable encounters included playful Galapagos sea lions, elegant flightless cormorants, and sea turtles. Snorkeling enthusiasts were treated to a world beneath the waves and non snorkelers saw just as much from our glass-bottom Zodiac. In the afternoon, our expedition led us to the pristine shores of Fernandina Island. This uninhabited island is a haven for wildlife. The highlights were undoubtedly the iconic Galapagos marine iguanas basking on black lava rocks. As we carefully navigated the island's trails, we marveled at the otherworldly landscapes shaped by ongoing volcanic activity. A sighting of a Galapagos hawk soaring overhead added a touch of wild majesty to our exploration. The sense of isolation and raw nature in these untouched Galapagos corners reminded us of the importance of preserving these ecosystems. Our journey continues tomorrow, promising new wonders in this extraordinary archipelago.
