AM: Darwin Bay, Genovesa Island

Step onto the white sand and coral beach created by a submerged volcano crater as you arrive at this horseshoe-shaped island. This is the perfect location for snorkeling in protected, tranquil seas with hammerhead sharks, rays, and an abundance of colorful reef fish. A short walk passes by a tidal lagoon and mangroves home to several terrestrial bird species, such as swallow-tailed gulls, red-footed boobies, and Nazca boobies. The best place to stop and take in the bay below is at the top of the rocky slope.

PM: Prince Philip’s Steps, Genovesa Island

Start your exploration near the base of the rocky staircase, where you might be fortunate enough to see a tiny colony of seals. Be careful to keep an eye out for flocks of Galapagos doves, short-eared lava owls, and storm petrels as you make your way up the 25-meter cliff face’s steep steps. Before proceeding onto a rocky lava plateau, a common nesting location for red-footed boobies and frigates, catch your breath at the top and take in the breathtaking vista.

AM: The Twins, Santa Cruz Island

The island’s geological features shed light on its history and formation, even though there hasn’t been any volcanic activity here in a very long time. You can follow a track around the rim of two impressive, nearly identical craters that are side by side. Mockingbirds, Bahama ducklings, white-cheeked pintail ducklings, and Darwin finches reside on the nearby hills, which are abundant with ferns and Scalesia trees. You will also have the exceptional chance to explore some nearby spectacular underground lava tubes that molten lava has fashioned out.

PM: Sullivan Bay, Santiago Island

A strange black rope-like construction of cooled lava with tiny apertures known as «hornitos» (literally, «little ovens»), generated by the release of pressure built up beneath the surface, covers Sullivan Bay as a result of a relatively recent volcanic eruption. The Sally Lightfoot crabs and marine iguanas are abundant despite the environment’s appearance of hostility, and you may finish off your trip by swimming or snorkeling alongside sea lions and penguins.

AM: Sierra Negra, Isabela Island

Isabela Island is one of the youngest and largest islands in the world and is still highly volcanically active. One of the island’s six volcanoes, the Sierra Negra, has the world’s second-largest caldera, measuring an astonishing nine by 10 kilometers. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the island and the surrounding volcanoes as you stroll or ride a horse up to the caldera and around it. As the scenery transforms from lava plains to guava-filled forests, you can see how the transition is from barren to lush.

PM: Wetlands, The Wall of Tears, Breeding Center, Isabela Island

The wetlands, which are close to Puerto Villamil and consist of lagoons, swamps, and mangroves, are a haven for migrating birds like stilts and flamingos. The Wall of Tears, an intriguing historical site constructed by inmates between 1945 and 1959, provides more insight into the island’s past. Lastly, a trip to the Breeding Center offers a unique chance to observe giant tortoises at all phases of life and learn about the essential work to conserve and maintain this fantastic species.

AM: Elizabeth Bay, Isabela Island

This is a private area that is filled with wildlife, and that can only be reached by dinghy. Blue-footed boobies and penguins can be seen on the rocks of the islets that encircle it, and the bay itself has an extraordinarily tall and vibrant mangrove forest.

A fantastic spot for snorkeling and swimming, the cool, tranquil waters draw schools of fish and are a favorite gathering area for turtles, rays, sea lions, and even sharks.

PM: Urbina Bay, Isabela Island

The Urbina Bay, situated at the base of the Alcedo and Darwin volcanoes, is a result of a significant volcanic uplift in 1954. The effect is that the shore is covered in corals and marine life debris. However, endemic plant species and wildlife have already begun to flourish in a relatively short time. The stunning huge land iguanas, the biggest in the Galapagos, will undoubtedly be challenging to miss. Still, you should also keep an eye out for Darwin’s cotton plant, giant tortoises, and Galapagos hawks.

AM: Tagus Cove, Isabela Island

Here, where the names of ships have been etched into the rocks, you can see why this place has been a well-liked mooring spot since the 1800s. This historical record is fascinating. A picturesque trail will take you around Darwin Lake. If you decide to hike further up the hill, you’ll be rewarded with a magnificent vista back over the lagoon’s glistening waters—a must-see photo opportunity.

PM: Espinoza Point, Fernandina Island

This unspoiled natural beauty area is considered an essential nesting location for flightless cormorants and is home to a large population of iguanas. A unique environment is produced by juxtaposing the lovely beaches and mangroves with the dark, lava-like flows.

AM: Espumilla Beach, Santiago Island

Espumilla, which translates to «meringue,» refers to the surreal trail of foam that the waves leave as they lap this lovely white sand beach. The vividly colored Sally Lightfoot crabs that are abundant here draw pelicans, hawks, and other raptors like herons and eagles. This serene location on Santiago Island’s northern coast offers a once-in-a-lifetime chance for snorkeling and swimming among various aquatic life, including octopi, eels, and sharks.

PM: Buccaneer Cove, Santiago Island, Rabida Island

Over the years, pirates, buccaneers, and whalers have frequented Buccaneer Cove. Today, it is an essential location for turtle nesting and is well-liked by sea lions, sting rays, and turtles. Additionally, exciting rock formations brought on by erosion can be seen.

A red sand beach and rugged volcanic hills define the dry island of Rabida. Pelicans can be spotted nesting in the nearby salt scrub, and flamingos and common stilts can be seen grazing at the lagoon. Birdwatchers interested in the interior can also see Darwin finches, yellow warblers, and mockingbirds.

AM: Mosquera Islet

This little, sandy islet, which is halfway between North Seymour and Baltra, is well-known for its unspoiled beauty. A variety of shorebirds, including lava gulls and herons, sea lions relaxing on the beach, and Sally Lightfoot crabs clinging to the rocks, will excite bird lovers. There is no set track on the island, so you can explore a little or dive in for a snorkel to see some sharks, turtles, and rays.

PM: Departure from Baltra Island Airport

AM: Kicker Rock, off San Cristobal Island / Witch Hill, San Cristobal Island

Kicker Rock, a unique eroded geological phenomenon, is the first place you see in the morning. While the boats cruise around the rock, you can take shots of where seabirds build their nests.

The following sight is Witch Hill, a cone-shaped tuff hill located southwest of San Cristobal. The Spanish name for the bird known as the vermilion flycatcher is where this name originates.

This lovely place includes a white sand beach and stunningly clean waters. A fantastic chance to go snorkeling.

PM: Lobos Island, off San Cristobal Island

You will be brought to Lobos Island in the afternoon, where you can see a small population of blue-footed boobies, frigates, marine iguanas, and excellent frigate bird breeding. The experience includes swimming with sea lions while snorkeling in this serene bay.

AM: Osborn and Gardner Islets, off Española Island / Gardner Bay, Española Island

One of the longest white sand beaches in the Galapagos, Gardner Bay is home to sea lion populations and curious mockingbirds. The waved albatross uses it as one of the most significant nesting grounds in the world. You may snorkel with baby sea lions and a wider variety of tropical fish and corals in the Osborn and Gardner Islets, which are only accessible by small boats.

PM: Suarez Point, Española Island

There is a remarkable variety of fauna in Suarez Point. You can spot Galapagos doves, mockingbirds, and finches grazing close as you go by the nesting sites of Nazca and blue-footed boobies. Additionally, a geyser that may shoot water up to 25 meters into the air will be visible to you. You can enjoy seeing waved albatrosses take off across the water when you finally reach the top of the jaw-dropping cliffs.

AM: Santa Fe Island

This island was formed due to a volcanic uplift millions of years ago and is inhabited by the endemic yellow-green Santa Fe iguana, Galapagos snake, and rice rat. There are two main trails on the island, one that leads to a beach through a forest of tall Opuntia (prickly pear) trees; another that takes you into the highlands and culminates in a stunning clifftop viewpoint where Galapagos hawks can be sighted. It is also possible to snorkel along the shoreline with the highly entertaining sea lions.

PM: Fausto Llerena Breeding Center / Highlands of Santa Cruz Island

Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station, commonly known as the Fausto Llerena Breeding Center. There is a library, a museum, an information center, and a facility for breeding tortoises here. You may see tortoises of various subspecies ready to be reintroduced to their natural habitats at the tortoise breeding facility. Perhaps the most well-known resident of this Station was the Lonesome George turtle, which passed away in 2012.

Your day will include a trip to the Santa Cruz Highlands to see the renowned giant tortoises in the wild. Seeing these indigenous creatures, which give the Galapagos archipelago its name, is impressive. Since the highlands are home to finches and other Galapagos birds, birdwatching is another available activity. Before returning to the M/C Endemic, we finally enter lava caves to view the gigantic lava flows that created the islands.

AM: South Plaza Island

Unique Sesuvium plants and Opuntia cacti are spread across the area, making for some of the most fascinating wildlife sightings in the Galapagos. Land iguanas are frequently found hiding in the shadow of cacti along the trail, waiting for a prickly pear to fall.

PM: Bartholomew Island

Pinnacle Rock, a ragged spear-like rock that has become a defining characteristic of the Galapagos, can be seen in its best light at this location. You must climb a set of stairs to reach the summit of the now-extinct volcano, where you will be rewarded with a breathtaking view after passing through a variety of colored lava rocks. The sandy bay of the island is a fantastic place for snorkeling as well, with the potential to see rays, reef sharks, and penguins.

AM: Cormorant Point / Devil’s Crown, Floreana Island

Two stunning beaches can be found near Cormorant Point, one of which is pristine white and appropriately called «flour beach,» and the other is stained a dazzling green by a high concentration of olivine crystals. One of the most significant concentrations of flamingos in the Galapagos, as well as white-cheeked pintails and common stilts, frequent this saltwater lagoon. Devil’s Crown is a volcanic crater, beautifully cratered and primarily buried in water. It has a wide variety of marine life, making it an attractive location for diving and snorkeling.

PM: Post Office Bay / The Baroness’ Viewpoint, Floreana Island

Discovering the postal system created by British whalers in the 18th century and being able to participate in the tradition that has persisted to this day may be done at Post Office Bay, which offers a fascinating look into the island’s human past. The Baroness’ Viewpoint is named after an Australian baroness who came to the island in the 1930s and raised many questions about how she mysteriously vanished. This viewpoint is excellent for aerial observations of the nearby mangroves and other sites of interest.

AM: Chinese Hat, off Santiago Island

Lava erupted to create this tiny island off the coast of Santiago Island, and the resulting cone oddly resembles a Chinese hat. You will pass past a sea lion colony on the short route that circles the cove, and you may also spot lava lizards, oystercatchers, and eagles there. Additionally, those who want to go snorkeling will find the channel of azure water that connects Santiago Island to be incredibly alluring. Here, you might come across rare Galapagos penguins, rays, and sharks.

PM: North Seymour Island

A relatively flat surface resulted from the elevation of lava beneath the water that created this island. You might witness land iguanas, sea lions, and turtles along the coast. Inland, you can find colonies of blue-footed boobies, which you might be lucky enough to see doing their charming courtship dance. The majestic frigate bird, whose males have recognizable red gular pouches that inflate during the mating season, makes the island its most notable breeding location.

AM: Mosquera Islet

This little, sandy islet, which is halfway between North Seymour and Baltra, is well-known for its unspoiled beauty. A variety of shorebirds, including lava gulls and herons, sea lions relaxing on the beach, and Sally Lightfoot crabs clinging to the rocks, will excite bird lovers. There is no set track on the island, so you can explore a little or dive in for a snorkel to see some sharks, turtles, and rays.

PM: Departure from Baltra Island Airport

AM Visit: Leon Dormido/Kicker Rock, off San Cristobal Island.

Kicker Rock looks different to everyone, yet no one can seem to agree. León Dormido, or “Sleeping Lion” in Spanish or “Kicker Rock” in English, is the name of this remarkable rock formation off the shore of San Cristobal Island. It can be regarded as having a faint lion or boot shape depending on your viewing angle. We sail around it since it is one of the archipelago’s most recognizable features and offers fantastic photo possibilities. Visitors who are lucky enough might even catch a glimpse of rays and sharks swimming beneath the surface.

AM Visit: Cerro Brujo/Witch Hill, San Cristobal Island.

The “pájaro brujo,” or witch bird, often known as the vermilion flycatcher in English, gives “Witch Hill” its name. Visitors are enchanted by the location, even without the little red birds, since it has a beach with white coral sand that is ideal for playing in the sand, kayaking, or snorkeling. Kayaking and snorkeling are both feasible in the calm surf off the beach. Riders in pangas pass some intriguing rock formations along the island’s coastline.

PM Visit: Isla Lobos/Sea Lion Island, off San Cristobal Island.

The moniker “Sea Lion Island” is accurate! Isla Lobos, one of the best snorkeling locations in the Galapagos, is a long islet that runs parallel to San Cristobal Island’s coast and creates a tranquil waterway ideal for novice snorkelers. A sizable population of sea lions that live on the island occasionally splash into the ocean and play around with swimmers and snorkelers. If your kayaking skills are rusty, it’s also a fantastic spot to practice them!

AM Visit: Bahía Gardner/Gardner Bay, Española Island:

Gardner Bay is a stunning white-sand beach where tourists may unwind and soak up the sun next to sleeping sea lions. Gardner Bay is just two locations on magnificent Espaola island where visitors are permitted to land. It’s one of the nicest beaches in Galapagos despite the lack of wildlife (crabs and marine iguanas are common, as are some wading birds). Those who didn’t get enough snorkeling earlier in the day can relax in the calm waves off the beach.

AM Visit: Islote Osborn, Islote Gardner/Osborn and Gardner Islets, off of Española Island.

Osborn Islet, one of the best snorkeling locations in the entire Galapagos, is renowned for its calm seas and a wealth of marine life. In comparison, snorkelers play with sea lions, and vividly colored parrot fish nibble at the coral on the sea floor. A sea lion colony can also be seen close by on Gardner Islet. Due to its proximity, the guides may choose to visit one or the other, depending on the situation.

PM Visit: Punta Suarez/Suarez Point, Española Island.

Punta Suarez is a fantastic tourist destination and a personal favorite of many seasoned Galapagos guides. Of all the islands, it is the only location where tourists can count on seeing the magnificent Waved Albatross. Between January and April, the albatrosses go from Espaola, but they remain there the remainder of the year. In addition, there are marine iguanas, mockingbirds, red-billed tropical birds, blue-footed and Nazca boobies at Suarez Point.

 AM: Isla Santa Fe/Santa Fe Island.

Despite being a small island, Santa Fe boasts a noteworthy trail that passes through a stand of towering, thorny cacti. An expanding population of indigenous Land Iguanas likes to eat cacti. One of the few native mammals to the islands, the Santa Fe rice rat, can also be found there. However, tourists hardly ever encounter the secretive rodent. Over a century ago, whalers wiped out the entire native population of giant tortoises on Santa Fe; however, in 2015, some Espaola tortoises were placed on the island. After the trek, you may kayak and go diving outside the island.

PM: Charles Darwin Station/Fausto Llerena Breeding Center / Highands of Santa Cruz Island.

The well-known big Galapagos tortoise Lonesome George lived at the Fausto Llerena Breeding Center. He was sadly the last known member of his species, and after his death, his species became extinct. The Fausto Llerena Breeding Center was established to ensure that it never happens again, and it is currently the residence of a large number of young giant tortoises from numerous species. These juvenile reptiles are raised in captivity by devoted park rangers and scientists for study and conservation, but once the tortoises are old enough, they are released back into the wild. Your knowledge of the Galapagos endemic species and all the initiatives and projects the Charles Darwin foundation has started to preserve these incredible animals in their native habitat will be enhanced by this essential stop.

We will travel to the lush Santa Cruz highlands after visiting the Charles Darwin station to witness the giant tortoises in the wild. The name of the archipelago is derived from these remarkable reptiles. Enjoy these gentle giants’ still beauty while keeping a watch out for a variety of indigenous birds. We’ll explore some intriguing lava tunnels to conclude our trip so that we can learn more about how the islands were created. This exciting journey puts a shine on the conclusion of our day! We’ll head back to the Endemic for a sumptuous dinner after the visits.

Thursday AM Visit: Plaza Sur/South Plaza Island.

Visitors visiting Galapagos are always drawn to South Plaza Island, a low, rocky island with cacti and a healthy population of land iguanas. The Vesuvius plant, which can turn vivid red at specific periods of the year, is found on the island. It acquires an otherworldly appearance. As a result, they are making it one of the gorgeous locations on the islands. Be on the lookout for boobies offshore as you hike!

Transfer from the M/C Endemic to the airport in Baltra for your journey back to Ecuador’s main island. Help and goodbyes at the airport.

AM: Corona del Diablo/Devil’s Crown, off of Floreana Island.

The Devil’s Crown, a chaotic group of boulders off Floreana Island, is thought to be the last piece of an ancient volcanic crater that has essentially been eroded through time. It’s a fantastic place for snorkeling because the interior of the “crown” is tranquil and frequently populated by playful sea lions. At the same time, the deep water on one side is great for seeing huge rays, sharks, and other stunning large marine life.

AM: Punta Cormorant/Cormorant Point, Floreana Island

There are two beaches and a flamingo lagoon at Cormorant Point, but curiously, no cormorants (which are found mostly in the western islands of Fernandina and Isabela). The landing area at Cormorant Point is a sea lion-populated green sandy beach, but a short stroll gets you to the other side of the point and a stunning white sand beach. You can wade up to your ankles, but avoid going any deeper because stingrays frequent this beach’s waters. Numerous them can usually be seen right off the shore on most days.

PM: Mirador de la Baronesa/The Baroness’ Overlook, Floreana Island.

Visitors can obtain a good view of the Floreana coastline from the Baroness’ overlook, accessible from a sandy beach via a short hike. From your tour guide, inquire about the “Baroness of the Galapagos” legend. It’s a murder mystery that has never been solved. There will be the option to rent sea kayaks or enjoy a panga ride along the coast after seeing the overlook.

PM: Bahía Post Office/Post Office Bay, Floreana Island.

Whalers and other ships used to cruise the oceans back in the day, frequently for years. Communication with home was extremely difficult for the men who worked these ships, so they would leave letters in certain locations worldwide. One such drop-off was a barrel at what became known as “Post Office Bay.” Leave your letter for a loved one in the barrel, which is still there! Additionally, the location has a lovely sandy beach ideal for lounging or snorkeling.

AM: Sombrero Chino/Chinese Hat, off Santiago (James) Island.

Chinese Hat is a popular tourist destination for its peculiar conical shape, geology, and animal life. Because of the island’s fame for lava tubes and pillow formations, it was probably developed underwater before being brought to the surface by geological processes. In addition to being a helpful case study in volcanic geology, Chinese Hat is home to Sally Lightfoot Crabs, sea lions, and penguins. After the trek, you can go kayaking, snorkeling, and on a panga.

PM: Seymour Norte/North Seymour Island.

North Seymour, a famous city with tourists, has something for everyone. Fantastic photo opportunities are provided by the nesting Frigate Birds and Blue-Footed Boobys that are right next to the rocky trail. The island is home to a large number of land iguanas, which are frequently spotted happily nibbling on cactus pads. Countless sea lions are often present along the beach and close to the landing area. In if it wasn’t enough, the snorkeling is superb!

AM: Caleta Tortuga Negra/Black Turtle Cove, Santa Cruz Island.

After breakfast, visit the Santa Cruz Lagoon, also known as Black Turtle Cove. Pangas are compelled to paddle through the maze-like mangroves to prevent the nearby wildlife from being disturbed by their motors. There may be sharks, sea turtles, herons, or even a school of Golden Rays quietly gliding across the water as you visit Black Turtle Cove. In Black Turtle Cove, swimming and snorkeling are prohibited.

Transfer from the M/C Endemic to the airport in Baltra for your journey back to Ecuador’s main island. Help and goodbyes at the airport.

AM: Corona del Diablo/Devil’s Crown, off Floreana Island.

The Devil’s Crown, a chaotic group of boulders off Floreana Island, is thought to be the last piece of an ancient volcanic crater that has essentially been eroded through time. It’s a fantastic place for snorkeling because the interior of the “crown” is tranquil and frequently populated by playful sea lions. At the same time, the deep water on one side is excellent for seeing giant rays, sharks, and other stunning sizeable marine life.

AM: Punta Cormorant/Cormorant Point, Floreana Island.

There are two beaches and a flamingo lagoon at Cormorant Point, but curiously, no cormorants (which are found mainly in the western islands of Fernandina and Isabela). The landing area at Cormorant Point is a sea lion-populated green sandy beach, but a short stroll gets you to the other side of the point and a stunning white sand beach. You can wade up to your ankles, but avoid going any deeper because stingrays frequent this beach’s waters. Numerous them can usually be seen right off the shore on most days.

PM: Mirador de la Baronesa/The Baroness’ Overlook, Floreana Island.

Visitors can obtain a good view of the Floreana coastline from the Baroness’ overlook, accessible from a sandy beach via a short hike. From your tour guide, inquire about the “Baroness of the Galapagos” legend. It’s a murder mystery that has never been solved. There will be the option to rent sea kayaks or enjoy a panga ride along the coast after seeing the overlook.

PM: Bahía Post Office/Post Office Bay, Floreana Island.

Whalers and other ships used to cruise the oceans back in the day, frequently for years. Communication with home was extremely difficult for the men who worked these ships, so they would leave letters in specific locations worldwide. One such drop-off was a barrel at what became known as “Post Office Bay.” Leave your note for a loved one in the barrel, which is still there! Additionally, the location has a lovely sandy beach ideal for lounging or snorkeling.

AM: Sombrero Chino/Chinese Hat, off Santiago (James) Island.

Chinese Hat is a popular tourist destination for its peculiar conical shape, geology, and animal life. Because of the island’s fame for lava tubes and pillow formations, it was probably developed underwater before being brought to the surface by geological processes. In addition to being a helpful case study in volcanic geology, Chinese Hat is home to Sally Lightfoot Crabs, sea lions, and penguins. After the trek, you can go kayaking, snorkeling, and on a panga.

PM: Seymour Norte/North Seymour Island.

North Seymour, a famous city with tourists, has something for everyone. Fantastic photo opportunities are provided by the nesting Frigate Birds and Blue-Footed Boobys that are right next to the rocky trail. The island is home to a large number of land iguanas, which are frequently spotted happily nibbling on cactus pads. Countless sea lions are often present along the beach and the landing area. In if it wasn’t enough, the snorkeling is superb!

AM: Caleta Tortuga Negra/Black Turtle Cove, Santa Cruz Island.

The lagoon on Santa Cruz Island is known as Black Turtle Cove. Pangas are compelled to paddle through the maze-like mangroves to prevent the nearby wildlife from being disturbed by their motors. There may be sharks, sea turtles, herons, or even a school of Golden Rays quietly gliding across the water as you visit Black Turtle Cove. In Black Turtle Cove, swimming and snorkeling are prohibited.

PM: Playa las Bachas/Bachas Beach, Santa Cruz Island.

During World War Two, the United States had a military base in the Galapagos Islands, hence the name “bachas,” which is taken from the word “barges” in English. Beautiful Bachas beach is perfect for swimming and shallow snorkeling. Sea lions, Sally Lightfoot crabs, and shorebirds like whimbrels and stilts are typical. A short distance from the main beach lies a brackish lagoon that is flamingos’ favorite.

AM: Bahía Darwin/Darwin Bay, Genovesa (Tower) Island.

Genovesa Island is shaped like a crescent and is made up of the long-since degraded remains of a prehistoric volcanic crater. One spectacular visiting destination on the bay can be reached through some mangroves and past numerous nesting birds, including Red-footed and Nazca Boobys, Frigate Birds, gulls, and other species. The Frigate Birds expand their vivid red throat pouches from February to June. Keep an eye out for stingrays stuck in tidal pools at low tide. After the tour, visitors can kayak, snorkel, or take a panga ride around the serene bay. Sometimes, snorkelers can spot hammerhead sharks!

PM: El Barranco/Prince Philip’s Steps, Genovesa (Tower) Island.

Prince Philip’s Steps is a breathtaking location for bird enthusiasts across Darwin Bay from the morning visiting spot. Visitors can spot the elusive Short-eared Owl at this site, one of the few places in the Galapagos where they are frequently spotted, after a brief climb up a rocky bluff. Keep an eye out for Tropic Birds, Red-footed and Nazca Boobies, and Storm Petrels. Following the tour, there is the opportunity to go kayaking or snorkeling again in the bay.

AM: Los Gemelos/The Twins, Santa Cruz Island.

The “twins” of Santa Cruz island’s forested highlands are two sinkholes made decades ago when subsurface lava tunnels collapsed. A shady trail covers the small distance that separates the two sinkholes from the main road. Your guides will describe the unique forest found in and around the sinkholes, which is home to several Scalesia pedunculate trees that are unique to the Galapagos Islands. You can view finches, Vermilion Flycatchers, and mockingbirds at the Twins visitor center.

You will be driven to the airport in Baltra after our tour so you can catch your flight back to Ecuador’s main island. Help and goodbyes at the airport.