Getting Close To Wildlife By A Galapagos Islands Cruise

Getting Close To Wildlife By A Galapagos Islands Cruise

The Galapagos Islands are known for offering some of the most spectacular opportunities for viewing wildlife up close. The birds and animals here do not have a fear of human beings so you can see them in a manner you would only be able to do in a zoo park elsewhere. Although some of the species can be seen in other areas, because of the unique conditions here, some have evolved that are only found on the Islands.

The best way to see the wildlife and natural beauty is by taking a Galapagos cruise. However, you must know what the other attractions are on the various islands so that you can better choose your cruise ship as per its itinerary. Some islands, for instance, are better for their landscapes than for the fauna that can be discovered on them.

Bartolome is good for viewing blue footed boobies, sea lions, the Galapagos Penguin and green turtles. This is a nesting site for green turtles. These animals are also found on Espanola, in addition to marine iguanas, Darwin finches, the Galapagos Hawk and waved albatross.

Fernandina is the place where you can find the flightless cormorant and wader birds. Floreana provides you an opportunity of snorkeling and you may also spot white-tipped sharks, eagle rays and various species of tropical fish. Post Office Bay and Punta Cormorant, also at Floreana, are places to view the greater flamingo. Fur seals, short-eared owls, sea lions, iguanas and red-footed boobies can be espied on Genovesa.

Isabela has a variety of attractions and is definitely the site to visit for the giant tortoise as there is a breeding center here. Various other animals may also be seen when visiting this island, like the bottlenose dolphin and many species of whales. There are plenty of opportunities for snorkeling as well.

Another prominent stop is San Cristobal where the Interpretation Center is located, a wonderful stop for finding out more about the islands and what’s being done to preserve them. You’ll also find tortoises roaming around, sea lions, boobies, iguanas and many other species. In the highlands of the island, you will find a fresh-water lagoon where different species of birds can be seen.

On Santa Cruz, you can check out the Charles Darwin Station, a research center where you will learn about some species and the plans for helping them reproduce. This is another island where you can see and learn more about the Giant Tortoise. Besides the research station, there are ranches in which the tortoise can be viewed in its natural habitat.