The Holbrook Explorer

Rare, unique and extraordinary are words that you will use repeatedly during a visit to the Galápagos Islands.

The beach photo is from Water Cay. We took a 40-minute boat ride from Utila to this small cay and spent the day snorkeling, fishing and hanging out.

Night hikes on the grounds of the Selva Verde Lodge reveal a variety of interesting insects seen and photographed with bright headlamps.

Our small group left the hotel in the dark and arrived at Sossusvlei in the pre-dawn light; the landscape washed in muted shades of gray.

Plants are at the center of most of the Earth's ecosystems, so wherever there are plants, there is biodiverse life and inexhaustible beauty.

The imposing Galápagos Hawk (above) is always ready to attack its prey without any fear; he only focuses on his goal.