From a spectacular sunrise over Antarctic ice to a rare "green flash" sighting in California's Channel Islands National Park, the skies were especially beautiful this week.
Today, National Geographic Quest welcomed the sunrise in front of “Cocos” beach, a popular destination for locals to swim, and for us, the starting point of our expedition today. We arrived at Hacienda Guachipelin, a very large private property right next to the national park where our entire group took part in different excursions. We enjoyed ourselves and had a great day, either ziplining in a canyon above a river, hiking inside the local version of Yellowstone in the Rincon de la Vieja Park, visiting the famous Oropendola Waterfall, or just chilling at the hot springs. In between all the activities, we enjoyed delicious Costa Rican food, including handmade tortillas. We indulged enough to keep us active all day.
Named after the Dutch seafarer and explorer that was the first European to “discover” the islands of New Zealand in 1642, the park was created in 1942 to commemorate the 300th anniversary of the event. New Zealand’s smallest national park at just under 100 square miles, Abel Tasman is one of the most visited for its popular 37-mile-long coastal trek. This area of the park has been inhabited for over 700 years, with the first peoples here being the Māori iwi, with Europeans arriving in the 19th century. Following European settlement, the landscape was altered dramatically (as it was everywhere in New Zealand) with massive deforestation, quarrying and farming. So much of the efforts in managing the park have focused on restoring as much of the native ecosystem and removal of introduced pests. The weather and conditions were very pleasant which allowed us the opportunity to offer both a moderate hike and strenuous hike on the very well-maintained trails. For our photography focused guests, the photo team led a walk along the beach and near shore area, and lastly several guests chose to enjoy a scenic cruise on the local partner’s catamaran tour boat. We all were back on board just as light showers began to fall and a lovely rainbow graced the horizon as we set sail for our next adventures.
This was our last full day of this magnificent expedition in the Galapagos Islands. The weather today was superb, with clear skies and bright sun, perfect for even more joy during our activities. Our morning was full of aquatic events. We started with kayaking to explore and appreciate the beauty of the coast of Buccaneer Cove, with its impressive geological formations and fabulous wildlife. Later we went snorkeling to enjoy the wonders of the sea in this archipelago. It was such a delight to be able to swim among so many fish in the clear water. Another amazing spot waited for us in the afternoon when we visited Puerto Egas. We went for a lovely hike by the coast where the picturesque volcanic landscape of the Galapagos impressed everyone. It was a great experience to ride our Zodiacs back with a fabulous sunset to admire.
With a gentle following sea and our bow pointed south, we woke to the ocean pushing us towards Antarctica. Sunny, blue skies invited us to the outer decks where seabirds entertained us for hours. Five species of albatross glided by on long stiff wings, often coming impressively close and offering wonderful photographic opportunities. Many humpback and fin whales cruised by as we crossed the polar front and entered the Southern Ocean. The Drake Passage journey was a delightful one, and we look forward to our arrival in Antarctica tomorrow.
We are about to finish our expedition in the Galapagos Islands on board National Geographic Endeavor II and today we are visiting the heart of this unique archipelago. Santa Cruz Island is the most populated island and also holds one of the largest populations of giant tortoises. In the morning, we visited the installation of the Charles Darwin Research Station where different conservation projects for many species of the Galapagos are undertaken. We also went to the Giant Tortoise Breeding Center. In the afternoon we visited the highlands, home of the giant tortoises and the perfect place for spending time among these fascinating creatures.
