Today we had the first full day of our expedition on one of the jewels of the crown, Española Island. This is one of the oldest islands in the archipelago with some of the most amazing scenery and wildlife. Our guests had an amazing experience! In the morning, we had close encounters with sea lions at Gardner Beach, where we were able to play with them during our first snorkeling session. In the afternoon, we were so lucky and found a pod with over 500 bottlenose dolphins during our Zodiac ride. We also enjoyed a beautiful sunset. What a day!
2/13/2025
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National Geographic Endeavour II
Santa Cruz
Our day on Santa Cruz Island began with a visit to the renowned Fausto Llerena Breeding Center, where conservationists are working tirelessly to protect the future of the Galápagos giant tortoises. We observed tiny hatchlings, just months old, steadily making their way through enclosures designed to ensure their survival before being released into the wild. Seeing the various stages of growth—from juveniles to the impressive adult tortoises—gave us a deeper appreciation for the incredible conservation efforts that have helped recover populations once on the brink of extinction. In the afternoon, we ventured into the lush highlands, where we encountered these giants in their natural habitat. Among the misty foliage, we witnessed an extraordinary sight—a rare mating display. A massive male approached a female, stretching his neck and lifting his shell in a show of dominance. His deep, resonant bellows echoed through the forest, an unmistakable sign of courtship. The slow yet deliberate interaction was a reminder of the patience and resilience these creatures embody, having survived on these islands for millions of years. Santa Cruz’s highlands remain one of the best places to observe these magnificent creatures, and our experience today highlighted both their enduring presence and the efforts to ensure their survival for generations to come.