Today we began our expedition by visiting a very special place: North Seymour Island. This small, flat island is located just north of Baltra. Despite its modest size, the island is a true wildlife hotspot. We walked among colonies of frigatebirds, land iguanas, and blue-footed boobies, enjoying close encounters with these iconic species. In the afternoon, we moved to another remarkable destination. Rabida Island’s unique red coloring comes from the high levels of iron in its volcanic material, which oxidizes and gives the soil and sand a rich, reddish hue. It’s easily one of the most photogenic spots in the archipelago. Here, we enjoyed our first dip in the ocean and snorkeled with fascinating marine creatures. Later, we strolled along the beach, observed flamingos in a coastal lagoon, and ended the day with a breathtaking sunset.
6/3/2025
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National Geographic Endeavour II
Isabela Island
Another action-packed and unforgettable day unfolded in the wild western reaches of the Galápagos Islands. We began with a gentle morning stretch, followed by an early hike along Urbina Bay — a surreal landscape born from the uplift of the seafloor. Towering shield volcanoes loomed around us, creating a dramatic backdrop. Golden land iguanas basked in the morning sun, while Darwin’s finches, mockingbirds, and vibrant yellow warblers flitted through the dry brush, offering glimpses of the archipelago’s famous evolutionary story. Our young explorers took to the helm this morning, learning to drive Zodiacs with confidence and a healthy dose of laughter. On board, we delved into the fascinating human history of the archipelago, unravelling stories of pirates, pioneers, and scientists who once roamed these shores. After a scrumptious Ecuadorian lunch, our afternoon was brimming with adventure: kayaking through the impressive geology and calm waters of Tagus Cove and snorkeling among unique sea life. The real stars of the afternoon? The lightning-fast, tuxedoed Galápagos penguins, zipping around us in the water, leaving us in awe of their agility.As the day ended, half of our group hiked the trail above Tagus Cove, while others enjoyed a peaceful panga ride around Darwin Volcano.