Our day started with a very relaxing hike in the morning at Punta Pitt on the north side of San Cristobal. It was a very pronounced climb, all the way from the beach area to the very summit of a tuff cone where we were able to spot not only a nice bunch of blue-footed boobies in their nests, but also a good amount of red-footed boobies with a few chicks as well. As we came back to the beach, we had a lovely opportunity to snorkel from the beach to refresh ourselves. In the afternoon we closed a beautiful week onboard with a visit to Cerro Brujo Beach where we could relax a little bit while also checking on hatching sea turtles.
5/12/2025
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National Geographic Islander II
Española Island
Today’s expedition took us to one of the crown jewels of the Galápagos Islands, Española, renowned for its incredible biodiversity and striking landscapes. The day offered us a blend of relaxing encounters with marine life and dramatic displays of wildlife along one of the most iconic trails in the archipelago. Our morning began at Gardner Bay, a breathtaking stretch of white sand beach framed by turquoise waters and black lava outcrops. Upon landing, we were greeted by a colony of Galápagos sea lions lounging comfortably along the shoreline. Some curious individuals came close to inspect us as we walked along the beach. In the afternoon, we landed at Punta Suárez, where a starkly different environment awaited. The rocky coastline and dramatic cliffs provided a stunning backdrop for one of the most exciting wildlife hikes in the Galápagos. Our walk took us through nesting grounds of Nazca boobies. The highlight, however, was the waved albatross, endemic to Española and one of the most charismatic species in the archipelago. We were fortunate to observe their fascinating courtship displays—elegant and theatrical, with head bobbing, beak clacking, and sky-pointing rituals.
