Genovesa Island is formed from the remaining edges of a crater that is now mostly submerged. It is the smallest of the thirteen major islands, at only 5 square miles. Genovesa is known as the bird island. It is here where many species of birds live. Genovesa is a port of call for the island cruise lines to allow guests the opportunity to partake in prime bird watching.

This small island is the best place to find colonies of red-footed boobies. Other birds to look for include masked boobies, swallow-tailed gulls, Galapagos doves, red-billed tropic birds, short-eared owls, and pintail ducks. Sea lions like lying on the sandy shores to soak in the sunshine and there are two species that live on the Galapagos Islands, both on Genovesa. Hammerhead sharks are visible in the water and are often seen while snorkeling.

Darwin Bay Beach

Darwin Bay Beach is a coral reef beach. Leading off the beach is a trail that will lead visitors to more bird colonies. The animals on the beach are used to tourists and tend to be more friendly than animals in other areas. The sea lions will swim with tourists who venture into the water. Off the beach, there is a forest of cactus and mangroves. This is where the frigate birds make their nests. Follow the trail off the beach and visitors will find an inter-tidal zone with a very diverse animal life. Those tourists who are interested will have the opportunity to do some sea kayaking in the bay.

Prince Philip’s Steps

Prince Philip’s Steps is a steep path that leads through bird colonies and up cliffs that are 25 meters high. Once at the top of the cliff, the trail continues inland. During the hike, tourists will pass more bird colonies in a thin palo santo forest. Past the forest is a rocky plain. Here is the best bird watching view. The storm petrels in this colony are unique to any other storm petrel in the world because they fly during the day and return to their nests at night in order to avoid predators.