Described by Charles Darwin as “a little world within itself,” the volcanic Galápagos Islands are Mother Nature at her most creative. It’s not hard to understand why this colorful destination and its biodiversity inspired the theory of evolution: Rare birds decorate the sky, otherworldly reptiles patrol alien landscapes and dozens of endemic floral species bloom in full splendor. When iconic photographer Steve McCurry stepped ashore with Silversea, he became a witness to Darwin’s premise and with his award-winning nature photography recaptured the sense of awe that fuels every great expedition, such as Darwin’s aboard the HMS Beagle.

A bucket-list nature photography adventure

McCurry cruised between the islands of Baltra and San Cristóbal, ticking items off his bucket list as he went. He witnessed giant tortoises in their natural habitat, walked on solidified lava, photographed Galápagos sea lions up close and strolled along red-sanded beaches as rare birds — including Darwin’s finches, blue-footed boobies, waved albatrosses and brown pelicans, among others — took flight nearby. Animals are largely unfazed by human visitors and go about their business undisturbed. Geographically, the landscape looks ethereal and vast flooded calderas exemplify just some of the breathtaking features that shape this exotic land and make for incredible nature photography. Here, nothing is familiar; nothing is ordinary; nothing is uninspiring.

Capturing the allure of the Galápagos

Even for McCurry, a seasoned traveler, the Galápagos Islands offered the chance to observe an inimitable set of unique moments. From intimate exchanges between boobies and their chicks to the juvenile play of sea lion pups, these moments encapsulate the allure of the Galápagos. Gripped by its natural magnificence, and charmed by fleeting moments and unforgettable sights, the photographer fell in love with the Galápagos Islands and vows to return as soon as possible!

Get to know Steve McCurry

Capturing the authentic beauty of the world is Steve McCurry’s mission. He has been one of the most iconic voices in contemporary photography for more than 30 years. His work spans conflicts, vanishing cultures, ancient traditions and contemporary culture, yet always retains the human element that made his celebrated image of the “Afghan Girl” — the eloquence of her haunted expression telling the world of her fate through her vivid green eyes — so powerful. McCurry has been recognized with some of the most prestigious awards in the industry, including the Robert Capa Gold Medal, the National Press Photographers Award and four first-prize awards from the World Press Photo contest. Partnering with Steve was a natural choice for Silversea. He is a born storyteller with the soul of an explorer. His images not only take you on a journey, they inspire you to travel the world. To learn more about the partnership between McCurry and Silversea visit: www.steveandsilversea.com

Dreaming of seeing the Galápagos through your own camera lens? These expedition cruises can take you there.