It is thought that Espanola Island was formed when lavas were extruded beneath the water’s surface, later uplifting to form an island. Terrain is relatively flat with a few hills and vegetation is rather arid, consisting mainly of thorny plants.

There are two visitor spots on the island, Gardner Bay and Punta Suarez. Gardner Bay is on the north east of the island and a stop here welcomes you with a big white sandy beach peppered with lazy sea lions basking in the heat of the sun. Fearless Hood mockingbirds investigate the new arrivals, often landing on heads in their search of food. The clear waters are perfect for snorkelling and you may encounter the playful sea lions in the waves, as well as rather large tropical fish, such as yellow-tailed surgeonfish and the rather comical looking bump-head parrotfish. You may even spot sea turtles swimming or a white-tipped reef shark snapping on the ocean floor.

At Punta Suarez you follow a trail through a rookery spotting Nazca boobies and blue footed boobies, as well as Galapagos doves, cactus finch and mockingbirds foraging. Keep on the trail to spot a blow-hole created from black lava, moving on to ‘Albatross Airport’, where these magnificent winged creatures launch themselves out over the crashing ocean – further from the cliff you will find their nesting site.

Espanola is home to many of the experiences, animals and landscapes travellers associate with when they think of the Galapagos Islands. A colourful island that we love to encourage visitors to experience.