Española is a bird lovers destination as it is one of the world’s only known nesting sites for the Waved Albatross (aka Galapagos Albatross). From April to December this island is covered with these adorably clumsy birds. Blue-Footed and Nazca Boobies as well as many other bird species also call this remote island home.
At A Glance
- Departure: 07:30 Main Pier Puerto San Cristobol Island
- Group size: 10 – 12 passengers (medium size motor yacht
- Format: Group Tour with Naturalist Guide
- Duration: ~8 Hours
- Transport: Water Taxi, Motor Yacht
- Water Taxi: 5 minutes
- Motor Yacht: ~2 hour each way
- Difficulty: Moderate – hiking on unimproved trails & open water snorkeling from boat
- Activities: Birdlife, Hiking, Snorkeling
- Possible Wildlife: Nesting Waved Albatros (April – December) & Endemic Christmas Iguanas
- Hike: Approximately 1 hour along sun exposed unimproved path
- Snorkel: 45 minutes from beach (optional)
- Lunch: Onboard vessel
- Included Onboard: Snorkel Gear, Towel, Water & Snacks
Española is also a great island to find nesting Blue-Footed Boobies and witness their renown mating dances. The energetic mating ritual of these birds have made them very popular.
Another unique species found only on Española Island is the Green and Red Marine Iguana (also known as Christmas Iguanas). Quite often you will be greeted by these colorful reptiles. A visit to Gardner Bay for some open water snorkeling completes this island visit. Whale sightings are common (but not guaranteed) during the open water cruise to/from San Cristóbal Island.
Day Tour Gear List
- Comfortable Closed-Toe Walking Shoes
- Sunscreen, Hat & sunglasses
- Swim gear, Change of Clothes & Light Jacket
- Camera & Memory Card
- Reusable water bottle
- Personal medications