Santa Fe
Home to one of the most beautiful coves in all the Galapagos, Santa Fe is
located in the southeastern part of Galapagos, 2 1/2 hours from
Santa
Cruz and
3 hours from
San Cristobal. 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.
Goats were eradicated in 1971, and Santa Fe is home to a number of endemic
species, which have bounced back from the outside threat. They include the Galapagos
Hawk, Galapagos Snake, Rice Rats, a variety of
Finches and the
Galapagos
Mockingbird.
Visits to Santa Fe begin with a panga ride across the lovely turquoise
lagoon. Once ashore you are brought into contact with of of the many sea
lion colonies in the Galapagos. Bulls vie for the right of beach master
while cows laze in the sun.
The loop trail around the islands leads past the salt bushes where Galapagos
Hawks can easily be approached. Hiking towards the cliffs leads you to a forest of
Prickly Pear
Cactus. A
member of the cactus family their name comes from the pear shaped fruit the
plant produces. Santa Fe's trees are the largest in the Galapagos. Santa
Fe is home to endemic
Land Iguanas.
These iguanas are the largest in the islands and they are beige to chocolate
brown in color and resemble small dinosaurs. Reaching the summit there is a
stunning view of the cove beneath.
Once back at the
beach there is normally plenty of free time to snorkel back in the lagoon.
Playful
Sea Lion
pups and florescent fish make for fascinating company. Or visit a submerged rock
where several Manta Rays and
Marine Turtles
can be found.
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