Santa Fe Galapagos | Hike and Snorkel Day Tour

Santa Fe Galapagos Day Tour from Puerto Ayora (Santa Cruz Island)

Discover Santa Fe Galapagos, a truly unique destination in the archipelago, where turquoise bays, giant Opuntia cacti, and rich wildlife come together in harmony. Additionally, this island is home to endemic species like the Barrington Land Iguana, making it an unparalleled spot for nature enthusiasts. Moreover, Santa Fe offers unforgettable hiking and snorkeling experiences, as well as the chance to interact with playful sea lions, admire vibrant marine life, and marvel at its stunning landscapes.

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Is a small island of 24 square kilometres in the centre of Galapagos.
• Geologically it is one of the oldest.
• The vegetation of the island is characterized by brush and palo santo trees.
• Santa Fe is home to one endemic species : the Barrington land iguana
• Large numbers of sea lions are found on the beaches in the bay

Important Data

Description Tour: Santa Fe Galapagos

Specifically, it is a small island of 24 kilometres squared which lies in the centre of the Galapagos archipelago, to the south west of Santa Cruz Island. Geologically it is one of the oldest, since volcanic rocks of about 4 million years old have been found.

However, Santa Fe was formed from an uplift (rather than a volcano) giving the island a relatively flat surface rather than the typical conical shape of the other islands.

In addition, the vegetation of the island is characterized by the presence of a dense forest dominated by the largest species of the giant Opuntia cactus. Furthermore, Santa Fé is home to two species that are entirely endemic to the island: the Barrington Land Iguana (Conolophus pallidus) as well as the Santa Fe Rice Rat (Oryzomys brauni).

Weathered cliffs provide a haven for swallow-tailed gulls, red-billed tropic birds,shear-waters petrels. Santa Fe species of Galapagos Land Iguanas are often seen, as well as lava lizards.

Particularly, Santa Fe Island is home to one of the most beautiful coves in all the Galapagos.

Finally, The visitor site is a wet landing located in Barrington Bay on the northeastern side of the island. Large numbers of sea lions are found on the beaches in the bay, occasionally hindering peregrination to the two trails leading from the beach.

Concurrently, The departure from the hotel is at 7:30 AM, to tranfer to Puerto Ayota. The navigation, We will be onboard for 40 minutes aproximately.

Then we will land in Santa Fe Island, which is a central island surrounded by an amazing bay of turquoise water!. This island is protected by a natural barrier of rocks, where colonies of sea lions and sparrow-hawks are seen flying over.

On landing you will appreciate sea lions resting on the beach around you. We will continue for a short walk where we will see two species of land iguanas found only within this island!. Which main food is the leaves and fruits of the large and thick endemic cactus that are also a great attraction of this island.

Specifically, Crabs, Night Heron, Sea Iguanas, Mockingbirds and birds are seen frequently on the Island. After the walk we will go back to take lunch on board, then you will finally enjoy a wonderful snorkelling.

Finally, the bay is an excellent swimming and snorkeling place where Sea turtles, rays, wolves, fish, and the clear and warm water are unique attractions.

NOTE

IMPORTANT: In order to fulfill this tour, you must be at Santa Cruz Island (Puerto Ayora) one day prior to departure.