Outdoor Activities Santiago Island

Outdoor Activities on Santiago Island

Santiago, also called James Island or San Salvador, is a Galapagos island with outdoor activities that are all guided. Independent exploring is not allowed, and there is no town, road or shop. Most of the island is open wilderness inside the national park.

Walking:

  • Sullivan Bay: about 1.5 km across a young lava field, with tree molds about 150 m from the start.
  • Puerto Egas: a coastal walk, around 2 km, past fur seals and young sea lions.
  • Espumilla Beach: a short hike, usually combined with snorkeling in about an hour.

In the water:

  • Snorkeling: with a guide, at Puerto Egas, Sullivan Bay and Espumilla.
  • Diving: Cousins Rock, for intermediate divers.

Wildlife:

  • Galapagos fur seals and young sea lions at Puerto Egas.
  • Green turtles nesting at Espumilla Beach.
  • Land iguanas, reintroduced in January 2019 after about 180 years.
  • Penguins, sometimes seen at Sombrero Chino.

Tips:

  • Wear sturdy footwear for the lava and bring sun protection.
  • Carry water.
  • Stay 2 m away from animals and use no flash.
  • There is no camping at visitor sites.

Read more: adventure sports and walking tours .