The southeasternmost of the Galapagos Islands, Española is also the oldest in geological terms. Like the others, it was created as the earth's crust moved over a geological “hot spot,” spawning volcanoes which eventually created solid land. Española (known to the British as “Hood”) moved away from the hot spot long ago and is no longer considered volcanically active.

Española's main claim to fame is that it is the only nesting site of the Waved Albatross, a large, stately bird endemic to Galapagos. It's also where you'll find a subspecies of the marine iguana: the Española “Christmas Iguana” so named because the larger ones turn a distinctive red and green color during mating season.

There are two visitor sites on Española: Punta Suárez (Suarez Point) and Gardner Bay. Punta Suarez is one of the most memorable sites in all of Galapagos: it's the only place to see the brightly colored iguanas and the Waved Albatross. Gardner Bay is a gorgeous white sand beach known for friendly sea lions and good swimming and snorkeling.