Today we explored Española Island. We spent the morning kayaking and snorkeling at Gardner Bay, while in the afternoon we went for a walk and a Zodiac ride at Punta Suarez. We observed many of the iconic animals of the Galapagos, some of them endemic to Española Island. This island is definitely one of the jewels of the Galapagos.
9/12/2024
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National Geographic Endeavour II
Santa Cruz Island
Today we had the opportunity to visit the Charles Darwin Research Station and the Galapagos National Park facilities. Today is giant tortoise day! Early in the morning we visited the baby-giants which are part of a program to breed and protect the world-famous giant tortoises. Following, we explored the Highlands with a visit to a hydroponic farm and a sugarcane farm, then we had a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. In the Highlands, we walked among the tortoises. These huge reptiles were roaming freely as they grazed on grass and a variety of plants. Soon after our visit, we returned to Puerto Ayora and had a chance to explore the town and enjoy shopping for local handicrafts. Back on board National Geographic Endeavour II , we danced to music performed by a local folk band after our delicious dinner and nightly briefing. It was a full day of enjoying face-to-face time with Galapagos giant tortoises and visiting a new town.
