We had an interesting start to our journey as we explored two of the most diverse islands in the Galapagos archipelago. In the morning, we landed on the rugged terrain of North Seymour Island, and we were greeted by a diverse array of Galápagos wildlife. Iconic blue-footed boobies were the stars of the show with their vibrant azure feet and captivating courtship displays. We observed these remarkable birds engage in their unmistakable sky-pointing and synchronized dance rituals, a spectacle that left us in awe of their unique courtship. Some nests were active with recently hatched chicks.
We also encountered the land iguanas that are endemic to the Galápagos as they scurried across the arid landscape. Their prehistoric appearance and ability to thrive in this harsh environment are remarkable. The volcanic origins of North Seymour were evident in the island’s rocky terrain, providing a fitting backdrop to our wildlife encounters.
The island also provided us with the chance to observe magnificent and great frigatebirds as they soared above. These birds displayed their impressive wingspans and their distinctive red gular pouches, inflated to attract potential mates. They capture the essence of biodiversity in the Galápagos.
In the afternoon, we sailed to Rabida Island, which is known for its distinctive red beaches. The island's rusty-red hue is a result of the high iron content in its volcanic landscapes. The underwater world here was just as enchanting as the land-based wildlife. Snorkeling along the coastline, we discovered a vibrant rocky reef ecosystem teeming with colorful fish, sea lions, and Pacific green sea turtles.
As the sun set into the horizon, we encountered a small group of American flamingos just behind the beachhead with juveniles taking flight for the first time. We enjoyed diverse experiences on these two wonderful islands.
