Santa Fe Island

Swim with Sea Lions

Santa Fe is home to a large Sea Lion nursery so it is understandable that the best highlight for most that visit is snorkeling with these curious & playful creatures. Santa Fe Island is one of the oldest islands in the archipelago with some volcanic rocks over 4 million years old.

At A Glance

  • Departure: 08:00 Main Pier Puerto Ayora
  • Group size: 10 – 12 passengers (medium size motor yacht
  • Format: Group Tour with Naturalist Guide
  • Duration: ~7 Hours
  • Transport: Water Taxi, Motor Yacht, Zodiac
  • Water Taxi: 5 minutes
  • Motor Yacht: 1 hour each way
  • Zodiac Ride: 5 minutes
  • Difficulty: Moderate – open water snorkeling
  • Activities: Wildlife, Hiking, Snorkeling
  • Possible Wildlife: Penguins, Sharks, Turtles
  • Hike: 1 mile 30-45 minutes one-way
  • Snorkel: 45 minutes from beach (optional)
  • Lunch: Onboard vessel
  • Included Onboard: Snorkel Gear, Towel, Water & Snacks
Hang out with some Santa Fe residents.
Hang out with some Santa Fe residents.

Santa Fe is home to the Barrington Land Iguana, a unique species endemic only to this island. Wander the beach with countless sea lions and hike through Opuntia Cactus forests looking for this unique resident (wildlife sightings not guaranteed).

Having a great time on Santa Fe island.
Having a great time on Santa Fe island.

Day Tour Gear List

  • Comfortable Closed-Toe Walking Shoes
  • Sunscreen, Hat & sunglasses
  • Swim gear, Change of Clothes & Light Jacket
  • Camera & Memory Card
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Personal medications
"We are so happy we decided to do a land based tour with Galapagos Alternative. It's the best way to go! They make the process of traveling to the islands simple and don't overcharge. Their use of local tour companies stimulates the local economy and gets you right in the middle of all the action on the islands."
- Sarah P.
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