Bartolome and Chinese Hat, 4/18/2024, National Geographic Endeavour II
Aboard the
National Geographic Endeavour II
Galápagos
Today we explored Bartolome and Chinese Hat, two of the best spots on the island of Santiago. We had special encounters throughout the day, spotting the Galapagos penguin, sea lions, and blue-footed boobies. We also saw a number of sea creatures during our snorkeling activities.
We finished the day with a delicious dinner on the sky deck of National Geographic Endeavour II.
Javier 's passion for birds and nature began as a child exploring the Pyrenees mountains with his father. The mystery that surrounds the Lammergeier silhouette triggered his curiosity and interest towards wildlife. Javier studied biology in Spain and...
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Puerto Ayora and Santa Cruz Island were a surprise for many as we encountered the human aspect of the Galapagos Archipelago. This being the second largest island, it was also the last to be colonized by humans and it has a unique aspect of interaction among the species found here. A visit to the Charles Darwin Station, with its giant tortoises reared in captivity, showed us the role of conservation efforts and how they’ve been able to recuperate populations. This represents a model where protection and restoration have a very positive effect. Heading to the highlands, all are able to interact with the local residents, learning about an integrated educational system in a school in the middle of nature. Local families farming higher on Santa Cruz allowed us insight into the aspect of local production of food in a responsible way. The afternoon brought us back to interact with the giant tortoises, surrounding us at every turn as they move along their yearly migratory route.
This large island has stunning landscapes as well as interesting wildlife, both beneath the waves as well as on land. Several marine species live here which we enjoyed by using our many tools of exploration, including kayaks, paddle boards, glass bottom boat, and snorkeling gear. Before locals and tourists, the island was visited by pirates, whalers, and naturalists like the famous Charles Darwin who overall spent five weeks in the Galapagos aboard the HMS Beagle . Beautiful volcanic landscapes are visible from different angles, some young and sterile bordering older parts already colonized by plants and animals. This creates a captivating contrast. A great day of exploration came to an end accompanied by a gorgeous sunset.
We were in the center of Isabela Island, and it was a very clear day, allowing us to admire the shapes of all the volcanoes from the coast of Urbina Bay. During the morning walk we saw many male giant tortoises resting in the same area where some good-looking land iguanas were enjoying the first rays of the morning sun. Ecuadorian lunch was a treat, and we arrived at Tagus Cove in the afternoon. The water activities were exceptional, as they took place on this gorgeous sunny day. Walking up to Darwin’s Lake together and Zodiac rides before sunset, assured this was a great day of adventures on the big Island of Isabela.
