Seymour Norte Island and Rábida Island, 3/25/2025, National Geographic Islander II
Aboard the
National Geographic Islander II
Galápagos
Today we had an exceptional day exploring two of the most iconic islands of the Galápagos. In the morning, we disembarked at Seymour Norte where we explored some muddy trails looking for wildlife. There was plenty to see, including many land iguanas, as well as frigatebirds, which became the highlight after seeing males with their red pouches inflated to attract the females.
In the afternoon, we went for a stroll along the lagoon, and to our surprise, we saw a large group of flamingos gathered. Our guests were delighted with this unique opportunity to observe and photograph these magnificent birds in the wild. It was a truly wonderful day for everyone here in the Galápagos.
Iván grew up in San Cristóbal, Galápagos, amongst a family of artists. From an early age, he explored different art tools to express his creativity and his admiration for the natural world, going from painting to music, and to then discover a camera ...
This morning, we embarked on a scenic hike at Punta Pitt, San Cristóbal Island, where we found all three booby species - red-footed, blue-footed, and Nazca. We also took a Zodiac ride along the rugged coastline for close-up views of dramatic cliffs, surrounded by seabirds and sea lions basking in the sun. In the afternoon, we kayaked around Cerro Brujo’s golden cliffs, followed by a relaxing stroll along its pristine white-sand beach. Some even enjoyed a refreshing swim in the turquoise waters. This perfect day ended with a cruise around Kicker Rock, lit in the golden light of sunset.
Today we visited Española Island, the southernmost—and one of the most spectacular—of all the Galápagos Islands. Known for its unique wildlife and dramatic landscapes, Española offered us a day full of unforgettable encounters. In the morning, we landed at Gardner Bay, where a long stretch of white coral sand welcomed us. Galápagos sea lions lounged along the shore, completely unfazed by our presence. Offshore, we snorkeled in the clear waters among colorful reef fish and Pacific green sea turtles. Playful sea lions swirled around us like underwater acrobats. In the afternoon, we explored Punta Suárez, one of the best wildlife viewing sites in the entire archipelago. The trail led us through colonies of Nazca boobies and blue-footed boobies, some engaged in nesting or courtship dances. We also witnessed waved albatrosses, many sitting on eggs or gliding in the wind above the cliffs. The highlight for many was watching a pair of albatrosses perform their elaborate, synchronized courtship ritual, full of beak clacking and head swaying. As we approached the cliff’s edge, we were treated to the dramatic sight of waves crashing against the rocks and the famous blowhole, which sent bursts of water high into the air. With seabirds soaring overhead and marine iguanas sunbathing in every direction, the magic of Española was on full display.
Today the guests of National Geographic Islander II had a chance to snorkel at Champion Islet, just off Floreana Island. It was a breathtaking expedition to one of the most vibrant marine ecosystems in the Galapagos. As soon as we slipped into the water, we were greeted by schools of colorful fish and playful Galapagos sea lions.
