Española Island Tours Galapagos | Waved Albatross & Blue-Footed Boobies

Española Island Tours Galapagos: Waved Albatross & Premier Wildlife
Española Island tours galapagos offer access to one of the most historically and biologically significant sites in the archipelago. Also known as Hood Island, in honor of Admiral Samuel Hood, this island spans 60 km² and is geologically the oldest of all, dating back approximately 3 to 4 million years. Though uninhabited by humans, Española is a sanctuary for several unique animal species, including the endemic Española mockingbird, the Galápagos dove, the Galápagos gull, the colorful marine iguana, pinnipeds, and the magnificent Waved Albatross.

Main Visitor Sites on Española Island

The island features two sites that are especially popular with visitors: the pristine Gardner Bay for beach and marine life, and Punta Suárez for its spectacular bird colony trails.

Gardner Bay: White Sand & Sea Lions

Gardner Bay is widely regarded as having one of the most beautiful beaches in all of Galápagos. This renowned white-sand beach, composed of shell dust, creates a beautiful contrast with the turquoise waters. It is home to many large colonies of playful sea lions. On the rocks, you can observe large marine iguanas mixed with bright red Sally Lightfoot crabs. Look out for the endemic mockingbirds, who often inspect tourists’ backpacks! About 50 meters from the shore, the rocks are ideal for surface diving (snorkeling) to spot tropical fish and rays.

Gardner Rock: For Divers & Marine Life

A short panga ride can take you to the famous Gardner Rock. This area is a key attraction for divers and snorkelers, as it is home to white-fin reef sharks and other colorful sea-dwellers, making it a very popular spot for underwater exploration.

Punta Suárez: The Bird Sanctuary

Located on the west end of the island, Punta Suárez features a captivating tourist trail approximately 2 km long. This trail reveals a spectacular array of birdlife. You will see numerous Blue-Footed Boobies nesting (depending on the season), so be careful not to step on a nest! You can also observe the unique red marine iguanas basking in the sun, and Galápagos hawks hunting juvenile boobies. Following the path along the cliffs, you will find Masked Boobies nesting almost all year round.

The Culmination: Waved Albatross Colony

The highlight of any española island tours galapagos experience is undoubtedly the colony of  Galápagos Waved Albatrosses. These magnificent birds are endemic to Española Island, meaning they are found nowhere else in the world! From the middle of March through the end of December, around 12,000 of these fascinating birds—with impressive wingspans of up to 2.40 meters—gather here. While they may seem clumsy on the cliffs, once airborne, they truly become the kings of the sky.

The Hollow Blower (El Soplador)

A very short distance from the albatross colony is the famous Hollow Blower (*El Soplador*). This natural geyser effect is created by the intense energy of the waves pressing water through a small hole in the cliff, sending a spectacular water source up to 20 meters (65 feet) high.