Santa Fe Island
Santa Fe Island
The Enchanted Forest
Santa Fe Island offers visitors a glimpse into a prehistoric world, dominated by giant Opuntia cacti that tower over the landscape like natural skyscrapers. This ancient island, believed to be one of the oldest in the archipelago, has a quiet beauty and a sense of untouched wilderness that captivates those who explore its terrains.
Location
Located southeast of Santa Cruz, Santa Fe is a small island that boasts one of the most beautiful coves in the Galapagos, making it a popular destination for day trips.
Biodiversity
The island is characterized by a highland plateau covered in a forest of giant Opuntia cacti, creating an almost surreal landscape.
Activities
Kayak in the tranquil bay, hike through forests of giant Opuntia cacti, and spot the endemic Santa Fe land iguana.
Island Wildlife
Land Iguana
Unique to the Island, this species is significant due to its endemic status and distinctive pale coloration compared to other Galapagos land iguanas.
Hawk
As a top predator in the Galapagos, the hawk plays a crucial role in controlling the population of smaller animals and maintaining the ecological balance.
Sea Lion
A key species for tourism and an important part of the marine ecosystem, sea lions are common on the beaches and shores of Santa Fe.
Galapagos Dove
Characterized by its reddish and brown feathers, this dove is important for seed dispersal on the island.
Marine Iguana
Although found across the Galapagos, marine iguanas on Santa Fe also contribute to the marine and coastal ecosystems through their algae grazing.
Sea Turtle
While not exclusive to Santa Fe, the presence of these sea turtles is crucial for marine biodiversity and health.
