Isla Daphne, Galapagos Islands

A volcanic island rich in birdlife and research.

Two blue-footed boobies perched on a volcanic rock, a small island in the background, with the vast ocean stretching towards the horizon.

Overview

Isla Daphne, Galapagos Islands Cruise Port

Isla Daphne refers to two small, uninhabited volcanic islands in the Galápagos archipelago: Daphne Major and Daphne Minor. Located north of Santa Cruz Island, these islands are relatively small and characterized by their dry, arid landscapes and lack of fresh water. Unlike many other Galápagos islands, Daphne Major does not have visitor landing sites for regular tourists, with access typically restricted to scientific research.

Daphne Major, in particular, is world-renowned as a natural laboratory for evolutionary biology, most notably for the long-term studies on Darwin's finches conducted by Peter and Rosemary Grant. Their groundbreaking research on the finches' beak evolution in response to environmental changes has provided some of the most compelling evidence for natural selection in action. While direct landings are rare, cruise ships and day tours often circle the islands, providing excellent opportunities for birdwatching and appreciating the significant role these seemingly barren rocks play in our understanding of evolution.

Top Things to Do in Isla Daphne, Galapagos Islands

Observe Darwin's Finches from the Water

From your zodiac or cruise ship, you can often get a glimpse of the various species of Darwin's finches that inhabit the island, particularly the Medium Ground Finches that were central to the Grants' research. While not a close-up view, it offers a tangible connection to the island's scientific importance.

Tip: Bring good binoculars to spot the finches on the sparse vegetation. Your naturalist guide will explain their evolutionary significance.

Witness Blue-Footed Boobies and Nazca Boobies

Daphne Major is a crucial nesting site for thousands of blue-footed boobies and Nazca boobies. From the water, you'll see these iconic birds perched on the cliffs, flying overhead, and diving for fish. In nesting season, you might spot their distinct nests.

Tip: This is one of the best locations for close-up views of these booby species from the water, as they are not shy about humans in boats.

Spot Frigatebirds and Red-Billed Tropicbirds

Look to the skies above Daphne Major for Great Frigatebirds and Magnificent Frigatebirds, often soaring majestically. The elegant red-billed tropicbirds are also commonly seen nesting in crevices on the cliffs, recognizable by their long tail streamers.

Tip: Frigatebirds are known for their inflated red gular pouches during mating season, a spectacular sight if observed.

Circumnavigate the Island by Dinghy/Zodiac

Many expedition tours will take you on a dinghy or zodiac cruise around the base of Daphne Major. This provides excellent opportunities for close-up views of the volcanic cliffs, the different bird species nesting on them, and the geological features of the island.

Tip: Wear appropriate sun protection and be prepared for potential splashes. This close-up perspective enhances the birdwatching experience.

Learn About Evolutionary Research and Darwin's Finches

Your certified Galápagos naturalist guide will provide in-depth commentary on the scientific research conducted on Daphne Major, particularly the studies on Darwin's finches. This is a prime opportunity to learn about natural selection and adaptation in action.

Tip: Ask questions! The guides are highly knowledgeable and can make the complex science very accessible.

Appreciate the Unique Volcanic Geology

Observe the distinctive volcanic geology of Daphne Major, which is a tuff cone (formed by explosive eruptions of magma interacting with water). The layers of ash and lava, and the island's bowl-shaped crater, are visible from the water.

Tip: The island's geological features are a key part of its ecological story.

Overview