Today on board National Geographic Endeavour II we arrived at Cerro Dragon in the Northwestern region of Santa Cruz Island. Santa Cruz is the second largest island of Galapagos, and is located in the center of the archipelago. After breakfast, we boarded Zodiacs to visit the home of one of the most emblematic creatures of these islands: Conolophus subcristatus, the golden-yellow Galapagos land iguana.
We walked through different environments at this site where the Galapagos National Park has made great efforts to control the number of introduced species; today we can enjoy the successes of their conservation efforts. We found several of these golden reptiles, where they have been repatriated from the breeding center to the wild.
Back on board, we prepared for an amazing snorkeling excursion to enjoy the deep blue with playful sea lions and pacific green sea turtles. We also found many marine invertebrates and a large variety of colorful fish.
Returning to the ship for lunch, our culinary team proudly presented an array of exquisite colors and Ecuadorian flavors for our guests to enjoy. In the afternoon we navigated to Bahia Borrero; there we explored the bay via kayaks and paddleboards, looking for baby sharks and rays in the mangrove forest. Some others explored the area by Zodiac and observed brown pelicans nesting.
Just before sunset National Geographic Endeavour II circumnavigated Daphne Major Islet, a very important study site for the famous Darwin finches. It was a beautiful and relaxing end to the day, and another special experience in paradise!
