Today we visited two small and interesting islands: South Plaza in the north part of Santa Cruz, and Santa Fe to the east. These islands are home to the Galapagos land iguana and the Santa Fe land iguana. These islands are also home to two different species of prickly pear cacti, both with characteristics that make them unique to the place where they live. In addition, we observed a number of sea birds and a few colonies of the iconic Galapagos sea lions.
- Daily Expedition Reports
- 13 Jul 2023
South Plaza & Santa Fe Islands, 7/13/2023, National Geographic Islander II
- Aboard the National Geographic Islander II
- Galápagos
Javier Carrion, Naturalist
Javier grew up on Santa Cruz island where his grandparents first arrived in the 1940´s. Veritable pioneers, his grandparents settled in the highlands where they found a place to raise their children.
Read MoreCristian Villaroel, Naturalist
Cristian was born and raised on Santa Cruz Island, at the heart of the Galapagos Archipelago. He had the privilege of enjoying the beauty of the natural world of Galapagos every weekend, sailing in his family's small fishing boat. His parents passed ...
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Sombrero Chino and Sullivan Bay, Santiago Island
Today we explored Sombrero Chino and Sullivan Bay, Santiago Island which are remarkably beautiful sites because of their impressive wildlife and landscapes. During the morning, we kayaked and snorkeled at Sombrero Chino Islet. In the afternoon, we moved to Sullivan Bay, where our guests had the chance to go for a Zodiac ride and a hike.
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South Plaza and Santa Fe Islands
We are ready to set out early to explore the small and picturesque island of South Plaza. Here we find the endemic Galapagos land iguana, their reptilian features and colors stand out against the lava rocks and cactus forest. Swallow-tailed gulls nest right on and alongside the trail. Sea lions play in the water or rest under the bushes. On Santa Fe Island, we continue our excursions, this time with aquatic activities such as kayaking and snorkeling in the shallow turquoise waters of Santa Fe Bay. Sea lions, turtles, large schools of various fish, and rays are found. Later we explored by land to see the island’s land iguanas, finches, doves, and mockingbirds.