This is our first full day in the Galápagos Islands and we´ve had a great time on Española Island.  This archipelago is made of young and old islands and Española is the oldest and is located in the south. It is surrounded by open ocean and it has many small little islets close to the shore. The beaches of Española are among the most beautiful in the world! They are made of white sand and there are interesting creatures all around.

This morning before breakfast we explored the shore of Gardner bay from sea kayaks. It was a beautiful opportunity for spotting sea birds, sea lions and iguanas. At mid morning we explored a small islet located off Española Island on the north side. Here we went snorkeling. This was our introductin to the Galapagos marine reserve! It was worthwhile swimming among tropical fish and sea lions.

After snorkeling we came back to the ship to get changed before disembarking on Gardner Beach. This beach is made up of white sand and it is home to the iconic Galapagos sea lions. They were resting on the beach, playing with each other, and swimming in the turquoise water.

Later on after lunch we disembarked on a different side of Española Island. Here it is breath taking, it is another world! The wildlife is exquisite. As we visited the island we walked through colonies of marine iguanas. These lizards are starting their breeding season and they show attractive colors. There are colonies of Nazca boobies, too. These large birds nest by the thousands and they are here all year round.

This place is the best blend of unique wildlife plus beautiful landscapes. The island is surrounded by cliffs, which happen to be home to thousands of swallow-tailed gulls, shear waters and tropicbirds. The flat inland forest is the nesting site for the iconic Waved albatross. This bird is the largest in the Galapagos and a trophy for the bird-watcher and nature lover. This is the only species of tropical albatross and Española Island is the only nesting site for the species, therefore it is endemic to Española island!

It was an amazing day!