AM: Genovesa Island, El Barranco – The Cliff

Photo: CampPhoto

El Barranco offers an enchanting morning exploration along Darwin Bay’s southern edge. This 1.5 km trail traverses volcanic terrain and typically requires two hours at a leisurely pace. The path reveals one of Genovesa’s most remarkable bird sanctuaries, where red-footed and masked boobies nest in close proximity.

In the cliff’s natural cavities, observe fascinating storm petrels and their primary predator, the short-eared owl. The dramatic coastline can be admired both from the trail and during a comfortable panga ride, where you might spot fur sea lions resting on the rocks.

Note: This is one of only five locations in the archipelago where the red-footed booby nests, making it a particularly special destination for wildlife enthusiasts.

PM: Darwin Bay

Photo: Boydhendrikse

This bay originated when the crater of this island collapsed below sea level. The wet landing is on a beautiful white coral sandy beach. This island is a favorite destination for birdwatchers, allowing the observation of several species including: red-footed boobies, masked boobies, wandering tattlers, lava gulls, whimbrels, yellow-crowned and black-crowned lava herons, and yellow warblers.

Continuing on the trail, visitors can see Red-Foots nesting in the Mangrove trees below. Birdwatching opportunities include sightings of sharp-beaked finches, large cactus and ground finches, Galapagos doves, and swallow-tailed gulls. Alongside the trail, there are tidal pools, here you can observe coastal and sea birds like night herons as well playful sea lions. It is also a very good snorkeling spot to encounter marine life like small reef-trip sharks, sea turtles and hundreds of colorful fish. Sea Kayaking is also possible.

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