Daily Expedition Reports
4/22/2024
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National Geographic Islander II
Santa Cruz
With an invigorating stretching session on the top deck, our day started. We went on a cultural excursion, visiting El Trapiche Farm to see how they process organic products. In the afternoon, we finished our lovely day by seeing giant tortoises in their natural habitat. It was amazing to walk among them as they roamed freely.
4/22/2024
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National Geographic Endeavour II
Fernandina Island
This morning National Geographic Endeavour II welcomed the dawn upon arriving at Fernandina Island, the youngest volcano of the archipelago and still in formation. We took a walk along the shoreline of Espinosa Point to see one of the largest colonies of marine iguanas in the Galapagos. We also encountered a couple of Galapagos snakes, flightless cormorants, sea lions and a Galapagos hawk. Afterwards, we had an amazing time snorkeling. We saw sea turtles as well as marine iguanas nibbling on the rocky bottom of the sea to feed on the algae. Then, our captain repositioned the ship at the southeastern side of the island where we enjoyed the impressive spectacle of incandescent lava reaching the ocean. Without a doubt, this is one of the highlights of our Galapagos experience this week!
4/22/2024
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National Geographic Endurance
Tenerife, Islas Canaris
We arrived early to the island of Tenerife to explore Anaga Rural Park, walking through the subtropical forest on a lovely morning by ourselves. The prehistoric laurel forests still survive in some areas of the Canaries and today we had a chance to enjoy it, as well as the great views of the island. After our hike we walked through La Laguna, a beautiful, colorful, and bursting with life UNESCO city. The mixture of the architecture, the culture, and even the famous native dragon trees were outstanding. Some of us went on a more historical journey, visiting the Pyramids of Guimar and Santa Cruz. We enjoyed an indulgent traditional Canary lunch with a variety of tapas including local cheeses, croquettes, mojo, and great salads. It was a beautiful day exploring the rich culture, history, and nature of Tenerife.
4/21/2024
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National Geographic Endeavour II
North Seymour and Rabida Islands
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.