To the southeast corner of the Galapagos lies Espanola, an island dating from 3.5 to 5 million years ago. It contains a high degree of endemism with a number of species of animals that only live here. The north has one of the most beautiful beaches in the world with turquoise water and white sand where sea lion colonies hang out. The eastern part of the island has large colonies of nesting Nazca boobies, colorful marine iguanas, and majestic waved albatrosses, which only nest here. By far, one of the most fantastic opportunities to see wildlife in its purest state.
5/19/2025
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National Geographic Islander II
Santa Cruz Island
Our first full day had plenty of wonderful surprises as we disembarked in Puerto Ayora, the main town on Santa Cruz Island. As soon as we arrived, we took a bus all the way to the highlands of Santa Cruz until we reached El Trapiche Farm, a unique site where the guests of National Geographic Islander II learned about the production of organic coffee, cocoa, and sugarcane liquor. Afterwards, we visited the Twin Craters. This amazing site is comprised of two incredible pit craters formed by the collapse of volcanic magma chambers. The area is surrounded by a forest of the unique Scalesia pedunculata, a tree that is endemic to the area. The spectacular visit to El Manzanillo Ranch gave us the opportunity to walk among the incredible Galapagos giant tortoises, often found in the early afternoon having lunch and resting. Being surrounded by these gentle giants was the best way of ending our visit.
