South Plaza Island
South Plaza Island
A Contrast of Colors
South Plaza Island, though small, offers one of the most striking landscapes in the Galápagos. Its blend of sharp cliffs, bright red sesuvium plants, and towering cacti create a vibrant tapestry of color that contrasts beautifully with the deep blue of the surrounding sea.
Location
One of a pair of small uplifted islands near the east coast of Santa Cruz, South Plaza is easily accessible and a popular destination for day trips.
Biodiversity
The island’s unique ecosystem is characterized by a carpet of red sesuvium and scattered Opuntia cacti, providing food for the island’s population of land iguanas.
Activities
Walk among cacti forests, spot vibrant land iguanas, and admire the sea lion colonies along the rugged coastline.
Island Wildlife
Land Iguana
The land iguana feeds primarily on plants and can be found basking in the sun on rocky grounds.
Sea Lions
Often seen lounging on the coast or playfully swimming near the shore, they're a key attraction for visitors.
Nazca Boobies
Occasionally visit South Plaza, they are known for their large size and distinctive mask-like facial markings.
Hawks
Predators at the top of the island's food chain, these hawks are vital for maintaining the ecological balance.
Sally Lightfoot Crabs
These brightly colored crabs add splashes of red and yellow to the black volcanic rocks along the water's edge.
Marine Iguanas
Though more common on other islands, they can occasionally be seen along the rocky shores of South Plaza, basking in the sun.
