Today is our last full day of expedition aboard National Geographic Endeavour II. Locally known as “The Bird Island,” Genovesa is locatedin the northeast of the archipelago. We anchored the ship in what was once the crater of a volcano. We explored many different nesting sites for seabirds like red-footed boobies, Nazca boobies, etc. We also observed marine life by snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding. We enjoyed Zodiac tours along the beautiful basaltic cliffs. We had amazing encounters with the unique wildlife of the Galapagos Islands.
9/12/2024
Read
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.