Santa Fe Island Tour
Giant cacti and sea lions
The experience
Santa Fe is one of the oldest islands in Galápagos and home to two species you will not see anywhere else on Earth: the Santa Fe land iguana and its own endemic rice rat. Its forests of giant opuntia cacti create a landscape found nowhere else.
The turquoise bay, sheltered by a natural barrier, is ideal for snorkelling: sea lions, turtles, rays and reef sharks live there all year round.
The endemic Santa Fe iguana
A paler, larger species than the common land iguana, found only on this island.
Forest of giant opuntias
Cacti up to 10 metres tall, among the largest in the archipelago.
Turquoise bay
Snorkelling in a sheltered natural lagoon, with sea lion colonies on the beach.
How is the day spent?
A day on this tour
Indicative itinerary — it may change with the tide, the weather and National Park rules.
Sailing to Santa Fe
Casting off from Puerto Ayora (±1h30) heading south-east.
Walk among the opuntias
Guided trail in search of the endemic iguana beneath the giant cacti.
Snorkelling in the bay
Two sessions in the turquoise lagoon: sea lions, turtles and rays.
Lunch on board
Lunch at anchor in the bay.
Return
Sailing back to Puerto Ayora.
What's included?
- Certified naturalist guide (Spanish/English)
- Lunch on board and snacks
- Snorkelling gear
- Towels provided
- Transfer to the boarding point
Not included
- Soft drinks and extras on board
- Galápagos National Park entrance fee and TCT card (current rates on request)
- Tips (optional)
What to pack
- Biodegradable sunscreen
- Cap and sunglasses
- Swimwear and a change of clothes
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Reusable water bottle
- Camera or phone in a waterproof case
- Seasickness tablets (strongly recommended)
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