Santa Cruz Island, 3/20/2025, National Geographic Delfina
Aboard the
National Geographic Delfina
Galápagos
Today we explored the island of Santa Cruz. We anchored at Academy Bay and after breakfast went to the Fausto Llerena Giant Tortoise Breeding Center. We saw tortoises, from newborn to adult. After touring the center, our guests had time to explore the town independently and immerse themselves in the local culture.
After lunch, we went to El Manzanillo Ranch and there we looked for Galapagos giant tortoises in the wild. There were many along the way to the ranch as well as on the property. We found large males, females, and some young individuals. We also had the chance to learn about the local history with the family that owns this ranch.
Gilda was born in Ambato, located in the very heart of the Ecuadorian Andes. Since she was a child, she loved animals, often rescuing street cats and dogs. Her parents always made sure there were nature books and plenty of Jacques Cousteau’s videos a...
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We spent the day on the beautiful Genovesa Island. This place is outstanding, especially for those who love seabirds. Red-footed boobies and Nazca boobies were abundant along the trails. We observed plenty of juvenile frigatebirds and even a few males displaying a fully inflated red pouch. This island is special, and definitely a great place to start our adventure exploring the Galapagos Islands.
Our day on Santa Cruz Island began with a visit to one of the most iconic and important conservation sites in the Galápagos, the Giant Tortoise Breeding Center. Nestled just outside Puerto Ayora, this facility plays a crucial role in the ongoing effort to preserve the future of the Galápagos giant tortoise. We were able to observe tortoises at various stages of development, from hatchlings no larger than a coconut to massive adults with shells that bore the weight of centuries. Our guides explained the breeding program’s history and the meticulous care involved in raising these gentle giants until they are strong enough to be released back into their native habitat. In the afternoon, we journeyed into the highlands of Santa Cruz where the landscape shifted dramatically. Moist, green, and mist-laced, the highlands offered a stark contrast to the arid lowlands. It is here, in this lush environment, that we encountered giant tortoises roaming freely in their natural habitat. The experience of seeing these prehistoric creatures ambling through the grass, grazing calmly and occasionally soaking in muddy pools, was nothing short of awe-inspiring. We had time to walk among them, observe their slow but purposeful movements, and appreciate the grandeur of these ancient animals in the wild.
Floreana Island, often whispered about as the “Mystery Island”, has so much to offer! Here, history isn’t just read, it’s felt in the wind. Our guests were immersed in this timeless story as they took part in the legendary Post Office Barrel tradition, a ritual that has connected travelers across oceans for centuries. The day unfolded with breathtaking snorkeling sessions in crystal-clear waters. On land, Floreana’s unique wildlife, including playful sea lions, vibrant flamingos, and curious marine iguanas, offered an unforgettable spectacle.
