In the center of the Galapagos archipelago lies Santa Cruz, the second largest island in size (after Isabela). It is also the commercial capital of the region, with the largest human settlement of about 20,000 residents. Santa Cruz is home to the National Park and Charles Darwin Foundation headquarters, whose contributions to the welfare of local ecosystems is key. The highlands region of this island is highly productive for agriculture and farming. This is also the place to see the island’s giant tortoises — icons of the archipelago — in their natural state. Puerto Ayora is a large town where we see how people can live in harmony with nature and participate in commerce under the umbrella of tourism.
- Daily Expedition Reports
- 17 Jul 2023
Santa Cruz Island, 7/17/2023, National Geographic Islander II
- Aboard the National Geographic Islander II
- Galápagos
Share Report
Galápagos Escape: An 8-Day Voyage
VIEW ITINERARYRelated Reports
5/13/2025
Read
National Geographic Islander II
San Cristobal Island
Our day began with an early morning landing at Punta Pitt, located on the northeastern tip of San Cristóbal Island. Known for its striking eroded tuff formations, the island rewarded us with a panoramic view of the bay. We were fortunate to see a couple of blue-footed boobies in full courtship mode, including sky-pointing and whistling. Meanwhile, frigatebirds soared overhead. After the hike, we cooled off with a snorkeling session and were treated to playful sea lions. In the afternoon, we visited the iconic Cerro Brujo (Witch’s Hill), a site known for its impressive white coral sand beach and crystal-clear turquoise waters. We encountered wildlife here, including marine iguanas, oystercatchers, and sea lions. We finished the day by circumnavigating the remains of an old volcano and one of the most iconic landscapes in Galapagos, Kicker Rock, which was serenely lit up at sunset.
5/12/2025
Read
National Geographic Islander II
Española Island
Today’s expedition took us to one of the crown jewels of the Galápagos Islands, Española, renowned for its incredible biodiversity and striking landscapes. The day offered us a blend of relaxing encounters with marine life and dramatic displays of wildlife along one of the most iconic trails in the archipelago. Our morning began at Gardner Bay, a breathtaking stretch of white sand beach framed by turquoise waters and black lava outcrops. Upon landing, we were greeted by a colony of Galápagos sea lions lounging comfortably along the shoreline. Some curious individuals came close to inspect us as we walked along the beach. In the afternoon, we landed at Punta Suárez, where a starkly different environment awaited. The rocky coastline and dramatic cliffs provided a stunning backdrop for one of the most exciting wildlife hikes in the Galápagos. Our walk took us through nesting grounds of Nazca boobies. The highlight, however, was the waved albatross, endemic to Española and one of the most charismatic species in the archipelago. We were fortunate to observe their fascinating courtship displays—elegant and theatrical, with head bobbing, beak clacking, and sky-pointing rituals.