Punta Suarez: A Stroll to the Galapagos’ Most Iconic Wildlife – The waved Albatross
Next, we head to Punta Suarez, where a two-hour guided walk awaits. This is where the island truly comes alive with wildlife. Immediately, you’ll be greeted by the curious Galapagos mockingbird subspecies, which have become accustomed to the presence of tourists. These birds are often on the lookout for fresh drinking water, as they’ve learned that human visitors can provide this valuable resource. What’s even more fascinating is their attraction to anything shiny—they may approach and inspect any reflective objects you have. This behavior is quite unusual for Galapagos mockingbirds, as they are typically much shyer on other islands, making these interactions on Española particularly special.
Punta Suarez is famous for its extraordinary birdwatching opportunities and offers the best chances to witness the majestic waved albatross in all its glory. These incredible seabirds, known for their elaborate courtship dances, nest on the island from May to November, making this the perfect time to observe them up close. During the other months, you still have very good chances to observe the clumsy juveniles getting ready for their first flight.
Christmas Iguanas of Española: A Stunning Seasonal Transformation
As you continue the walk, you’ll encounter Nazca boobies, the largest land predator of the Galapagos Islands, the Galapagos hawk, and the famous Galapagos dove. The flora and fauna of Punta Suarez are simply unparalleled, offering a rare and intimate glimpse of species found nowhere else on Earth. Let’s not forget the marine iguanas, which, during their mating season from December to February, change color, earning them the affectionate nickname “Christmas Iguanas.” The same applies to the lava lizard on Española Island. He displays the most vibrant colors in the entire Archipelago.
In addition to its wildlife, Española Island boasts stunning geological features that add to its allure. Among the most spectacular sights is a geyser-like phenomenon that emerges not from volcanic activity but from a natural tunnel. As the waves, with their particular characteristics, crash into the tunnel, they forcefully surge out through a spout at the end, sending water soaring up to 20 meters into the air along the rugged cliffs.
As your day on Española Island draws to a close, we begin our journey back to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. The two-hour boat ride provides the perfect opportunity to relax and reflect on the incredible wildlife and landscapes you’ve encountered.
