Lewis and Clark's Corps of Discovery expedition changed the course of American history. Follow in their footsteps, exploring the route they took along the Columbia and Snake Rivers.
From killer whales in the waters around the San Juan Islands to bighorn sheep on the sheer rock faces of Hells Canyon, the wildlife and scenery of the Pacific Northwest are vastly varied.
The cooler West Coast cousin of the blue jay, this bold crested bird robs nests and can mimic a range of sounds. Get to know more about the Steller's jay.
The name “Salish Sea” is a relatively new term coined to describe the Pacific Northwest's most unique ecosystem. Read on to learn more, and then join us this fall to experience it for yourself.
The Pacific Northwest harbors a diversity of habitats ideal for birdlife like the rhinoceros auklet, Steller’s jay, and red-breasted sapsucker. These are just a few of the species to spot on expeditions in the region.
Through a special partnership with the Center for Whale Research, guests on Exploring British Columbia and the San Juan Islands have the rare chance to spot Southern Resident killer whales while in the company of top researchers.
In this episode of In Good Company, Food & Wine Executive Wine Editor Ray Isle shares more about how great wine is a “way to travel the world in a glass.”
In this episode of Expedition Spotlight, wine expert Eric Degerman gives travelers a taste of what’s in store on our immersive culinary journey along the Columbia and Snake Rivers.
As this journey begins, National Geographic Endeavour II awakens at North Seymour Island, almost dead center in the archipelago. This low-lying, uplifted volcanic island does not appear to hold much, however it is brimming with wildlife as we land. Walking among great and magnificent frigatebirds, with males trying to attract mates, we encounter Galapagos land iguanas highly camouflaged against the rocky background with endemic lava lizards fleeting about. The bright cerulean color of the blue-footed boobies stands out as we explore this land before time. The afternoon brings us to Rabida Island and its incredible contrast with its deep red, oxidized volcanic landscape, the only such island in the Galapagos. Exploration along the coast with kayaking or snorkeling, we encounter the ocean busy with wildlife, including Galapagos sea lions, whitetip reef sharks, and colorful reef fish. A sunset walk along the red sand beach allows us to get close to the sea lions as the sun dips below the horizon.
Talofa! A very warm welcome to Samoa. National Geographic Orion arrived in Samoa after a long sea travel from Rarotonga. We were truly in the remote Pacific and ready for exploration. The warmth from the Samoan people was intoxicating and we received special treatment today. We were shown around Robert Louis Stevenson’s house and the surrounding botanical garden, we had a Sunday feast cooked in an umu, we enjoyed a cultural performance, and then went snorkelling at Palolo Marine Reserve.
Entering the Spanish autonomous territory of the Canary Islands, we spent the day exploring Gran Canaria. One group went off hiking in the ravine of Los Cernicalos, taking in the native flora and fauna while wandering through the willow forest. The rest of the guests had a full day starting at Los Berrazales Valley, tasting the rich ‘black gold’ coffee and the local wine and goat cheese. A few wished they hadn’t eaten quite so much for breakfast back on the ship! Then we visited the small town of Galdar which had a museum housing an excavation of an indigenous village, including a 13th century cave with paintings. The temperature dropped about 15 degrees as we climbed up the mountains to our lunch destination with stunning views over the central mountains. The skill of our bus driver was tested with the curved roads and tiny villages.
Today was another incredible day aboard National Geographic Sea Lion . In the morning we cruised through the narrow Princess Royal and Glenville Channels, enjoying the incredible misty mountains of the glacially-carved coastline. Along the way we got glimpses at numerous seabirds, as well as the occasional harbor seal and Steller sea lion. A real highlight of the day was a fantastic presentation by National Geographic photographer Chris Rainier, who spoke about his work documenting Indigenous peoples around the world. We’re excited to be arriving at Haida Gwaii overnight, and are looking forward to the rest of our time aboard National Geographic Sea Lion .
With a volcanic eruption at 4:30 am, our day began, followed by a very relaxing hike in the morning at Fernandina. During our walk, we were able to spot a nice group of iguanas and a few snakes as well. Then we had the chance to go snorkeling to refresh ourselves. In the afternoon, we wrapped up a beautiful week on board with a visit to Punta Vicente Roca where we took time to relax a little bit.