Today was all about giant tortoises. Morning and afternoon, we focused on this iconic Galapagos reptile species. The Galapagos National Park just recently inaugurated the “Ruta de la Tortuga”, or the “Path of the Tortoise” to take visitors along towards the real, living individuals they have in captivity in order to breed and repatriate the offspring. The trail led us through a forest of giant prickly pear cacti, the only variation in the world to grow to the height of a tree, as well as candelabra cacti, which is an endemic genus. Numerous other endemic plants lined the path, and a variety of creatures such as Santa Cruz lava lizards, Darwin’s finches, Galapagos mockingbirds, flycatchers. In the afternoon, the giants were seen wandering in lush green grass…tortoises all day!
6/13/2025
Read
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.
