Today we visited the National Park side of Santa Cruz Island, one of the only islands in the archipelago that is inhabited. Out of the total Galapagos landmass, three percent of the land has been assigned to humans, while the other 97% is all National Park. This morning we landed on Dragon Hill, where we looked for yellow land iguanas, the stars of the show today. We went on a wonderful hike where we experienced close encounters with land iguanas, and lots of action due to territorialism. As we walked along this untouched trail, it was amazing to think that we were walking on an island that is inhabited by humans, yet so well-protected. After the wonderful walk on Dragon Hill, we headed to the ocean for some snorkeling, where we spotted sea lions, sea turtles, and many different species of fish. The rest of the day was spent navigating around Daphne Major and Minor islands, ending with a beautiful sunset and some wine tasting. Another magical day in the Enchanted Islands!
6/13/2025
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National Geographic Endeavour II
Genovesa Island
We started the day with excitement as we landed on the beautiful, pristine coast of Isla Genovesa - a true birder’s dream. Along the sandy beaches and steep cliffs of Darwin Bay, we were surrounded by an incredible array of birdlife. Frigatebirds soared closely overhead with their red pouches on full display, while Nazca and blue-footed boobies nested along the rocky ledges. Swallow-tailed gulls called out as we walked past. In the distance, we saw the stoic and elusive short-eared owl. The island was alive with color, sound, and constant movement. Between our excursions to Isla Genovesa, we snorkeled near Prince Philip’s Steps and discovered a vibrant world beneath the waves. Schools of fish swirled around us, a fur seal turned in the water as if dancing on cue, and sea lions relaxed nearby. As our last snorkeling adventure came to a close, we spotted a sea turtle resting calmly in a crevice. As the sun retreated into the sky on our last return to National Geographic Endeavor II, we reflected on the sheer magnitude of what we witnessed on our last full day. Isla Genovesa, like the other islands, gave us a connection to a sacred world. The harmony between land, sea, and sky reminded us how deeply interconnected, vital, and fragile these ecosystems are. Watching birds tend to their nests and marine life swim effortlessly, we were struck by how little space there is between wonder and reverence. We recognized that our journey wasn’t just about observing unique wildlife, it was about feeling part of something grander and beautifully ancient.
