Santa Fe Island
A Galapagos gem teeming with playful sea lions, curious land iguanas, and vibrant underwater life. Experience an unforgettable day of hiking and snork...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Animals are most active
Santa Fe Island
Best Time
Animals are most active
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A Galapagos gem teeming with playful sea lions, curious land iguanas, and vibrant underwater life. Experience an unforgettable day of hiking and snorkeling.
"This was the best snorkeling that we did in the Galapagos islands. The sea lions were so playful!"
Book a Combo Tour
Opt for tours that combine hiking and snorkeling for the best Santa Fe Island experience. :ticket:
Bring Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect yourself and the marine ecosystem with eco-friendly sunscreen. : sunscreen:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Playful Sea Lion Encounters
Coastal waters and beaches
Swim and snorkel alongside curious sea lions as they playfully interact with visitors. A truly unforgettable wildlife experience!
Inland Iguana Spotting
Terrestrial areas
Observe land iguanas basking in the sun amidst the unique flora, including numerous cacti.
Vibrant Snorkeling
Calm coves and clear waters
Discover a rich underwater world with colorful fish, stingrays, and even green sea turtles.
Scenic Rocky Hike
Island trails
Enjoy a moderately challenging hike offering stunning views and opportunities to spot seabirds like boobies and gulls.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Santa Fe Island
What to Pack for Santa Fe Island
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book a Combo Tour
Opt for tours that combine hiking and snorkeling for the best Santa Fe Island experience. :ticket:
Bring Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect yourself and the marine ecosystem with eco-friendly sunscreen. : sunscreen:
Sea Lion Playtime
Be prepared for sea lions to approach and even tug on your fins while snorkeling! :ocean:
Camera Ready!
You'll see abundant wildlife, so keep your camera accessible for amazing shots. :camera:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book a Combo Tour
Opt for tours that combine hiking and snorkeling for the best Santa Fe Island experience. :ticket:
Bring Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect yourself and the marine ecosystem with eco-friendly sunscreen. : sunscreen:
Sea Lion Playtime
Be prepared for sea lions to approach and even tug on your fins while snorkeling! :ocean:
Camera Ready!
You'll see abundant wildlife, so keep your camera accessible for amazing shots. :camera:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Santa Fe Island for its incredible wildlife encounters, particularly the playful sea lions and abundant land iguanas. The snorkeling is described as exceptional, with clear waters revealing a vibrant marine ecosystem. While the hike is enjoyable, the interactions with animals are the undeniable highlight, making it a top destination for nature lovers.
"Our HX Galapagos expedition visited Sante Fe Island for a morning hike and snorkeling. We spotted gulls, pelicans and boobkies on the rocks. Some sea lions joined the snorkelers for a swim. We enjoyed a glass-bottomed boat excursion where we spotted black striped salema, puffers and angelfish. The water was so clear you could see down to the white sand bed."
Barb Hauck-Mah (barbhmphilly)
"This was the best snorkeling that we did in the Galapagos islands. The sea lions were so playful, they swam all around us and tugged on our fins. This was also a nice hike. There was a little bit of a hill, but a low level of challenge for most of the people in our group of varying ages. There were lots of iguanas inland. We did see several birds, there were a lot of cacti. Overall, beautiful scenery and lots of animals to see. Definitely worth coming to this island for a hike and to see the wildlife."
Jim C
"Came here in October 2017 with Guiding Galapagos and went to 2 spots on this island to snorkel. The first spot we saw king angelfish, giant damselfish, yellowtailed surgeonfish, bluechin parrotfish. Then the second spot we saw stingrays, blue footed boobies flying over us, sea lions on the beach and on the rocks and then swimming with us!, pufferfish, yellowtail damselfish, green sea turtles. This second spot was like a cove and had beautiful calm water and the sea lions got pretty close to us and seemed to enjoy swimming around us."
Tracy Marotta
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Santa Fe Island is typically visited as part of a guided day tour from Santa Cruz Island. These tours usually depart from Puerto Ayora and involve a boat ride.
No, there are no direct flights to Santa Fe Island. You'll need to fly into one of the main Galapagos airports (Baltra or San Cristobal) and then arrange for a tour to Santa Fe.
The boat journey from Santa Cruz to Santa Fe Island typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on sea conditions.
It is highly recommended to visit Santa Fe Island with a guided tour. Access is regulated to protect the wildlife, and tours provide necessary transportation and expert guides.
There are no roads or vehicles on Santa Fe Island. Exploration is done on foot via designated hiking trails and by boat for snorkeling and coastal viewing.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a National Park entrance fee is typically included in your tour price. You will also need to pay the Galapagos National Park entrance fee and a transit control card upon arrival in the Galapagos.
Day tours to Santa Fe Island can vary in price, but generally range from $150 to $250 USD per person, depending on the tour operator and inclusions.
Visitors must stay on marked trails and follow the instructions of their guides to minimize impact on the fragile ecosystem and wildlife.
Most tours include boat transportation, a guided hike, snorkeling equipment, lunch, and sometimes a glass-bottomed boat ride.
It's advisable to book your Santa Fe Island tour in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot with your preferred operator.
🎫 🤿 Onsite Experience
Santa Fe Island is renowned for its large population of land iguanas, playful sea lions, various seabirds (gulls, boobies, pelicans), and diverse marine life for snorkeling.
Yes, the snorkeling is excellent, with clear waters offering sightings of colorful fish, stingrays, sea turtles, and the chance to swim with sea lions.
The hike is generally considered moderately challenging, with some rocky terrain and inclines, offering beautiful views of the island's landscape and wildlife.
Wear comfortable walking shoes for the hike, swimwear for snorkeling, and light clothing. A hat and sunglasses are also recommended.
Absolutely! Sea lions are very curious and often swim with snorkelers, making for an incredibly memorable experience.
📸 📸 Photography
The island offers fantastic opportunities to photograph wildlife up close, including sea lions, iguanas, and seabirds, as well as the unique volcanic landscapes and clear waters.
While generally safe, it's always wise to be mindful of your belongings. Consider a waterproof camera or a protective case for your gear, especially near the water.
Mornings often provide softer light and more active wildlife. The midday sun can be harsh, but offers good opportunities for underwater photography.
Drone usage is generally restricted within Galapagos National Park areas to protect wildlife and the environment. Always check current regulations before flying.
A telephoto lens (e.g., 70-200mm or longer) is ideal for capturing wildlife from a respectful distance, while a wide-angle lens can be useful for landscapes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
Wildlife Enthusiasts
Remember to bring your best camera gear and be prepared for close encounters. The island's diverse birdlife and rich underwater ecosystems further enhance its appeal for nature lovers. Booking a tour that maximizes time for both hiking and snorkeling is highly recommended to fully appreciate the island's natural wonders.
Active Travelers
Ensure you wear sturdy footwear for the hike and comfortable swimwear for snorkeling. The chance to swim with curious sea lions adds an exhilarating dimension to the aquatic adventures. Most tours provide the necessary equipment, but checking in advance is always a good idea.
Families with Kids
While the hike is moderately challenging, it's generally manageable for most children. Guides are usually adept at keeping kids engaged with interesting facts about the animals and plants. Remember to pack plenty of sun protection and stay hydrated.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Wildlife Encounters on Santa Fe Island
Beyond the coast, the island's interior is home to a significant population of Santa Fe land iguanas. These reptiles, distinct from their cousins on other islands, can be seen basking in the sun amidst the island's arid landscape, which is dotted with prickly pear cacti. Birdwatchers will also find plenty to admire, with sightings of various seabirds including blue-footed boobies, gulls, and pelicans often occurring along the coastline and during hikes.
The marine environment surrounding Santa Fe is equally rich. Snorkeling here provides a chance to see a vibrant array of fish, including king angelfish, yellowtail surgeonfish, and parrotfish. Keep an eye out for stingrays gliding along the sandy bottom and graceful green sea turtles in the calm coves. The clear waters and sandy seabed make for excellent visibility, enhancing the underwater viewing experience.
Exploring Santa Fe Island: Hiking and Snorkeling
Snorkeling is a highlight for many, with several prime spots offering crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life. The calm coves are ideal for observing fish, rays, and turtles. However, the true magic often lies in the interactions with the sea lions, who are known to be incredibly social and will often swim right up to snorkelers. This immersive experience allows you to feel truly connected to the wildlife.
Some tours may also offer a glass-bottomed boat excursion, providing an alternative way to view the underwater world without getting wet. This is a great option for those who prefer to stay dry or for younger visitors. Regardless of how you choose to explore, Santa Fe Island promises a day filled with natural beauty and unforgettable wildlife encounters.
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