• Flexible Cancellation
Santa Fe Island Day Tour:
The Ultimate Sea Lion Haven
Sail to one of the oldest islands in the Galapagos archipelago. Snorkel alongside highly interactive sea lions, spot majestic giant cacti, and discover the hidden turquoise bays of Santa Fe.
Galapagos Santa Fe Expedition
Covering 24 square kilometers, Santa Fe is geologically one of the oldest islands in the Galapagos. Its landscape is dominated by an impressive forest of giant Opuntia cacti. But the real magic happens in its waters. The island’s sheltered bay is home to a massive colony of sea lions. These curious and playful mammals often swim right up to snorkelers, making this an unforgettable, interactive wildlife experience. Keep your eyes peeled for blue-footed boobies and swallow-tailed gulls nesting on the surrounding cliffs.
Santa Fe Tour Itinerary
08:00 AM — Meeting Point & Boarding
We will meet at our central office in Puerto Ayora. From there, you will be transferred to the local pier to board our yacht. The scenic navigation to Santa Fe takes approximately 1 hour.
09:30 AM — Coastal Bird Watching
Upon arrival, we will cruise along the rugged coastline. From the deck, you can admire vibrant reef fish swimming near the surface, as well as magnificent frigatebirds and blue-footed boobies resting on the rocks.
10:30 AM — Snorkeling with Sea Lions (90% of Tour)
Jump into the pristine waters of Santa Fe Bay. This is a prime spot to snorkel alongside highly energetic sea lion pups, graceful sea turtles, and white-tip reef sharks resting peacefully on the seabed.
12:30 PM — Hidden Beach & Lunch (10% of Tour)
Following the water activities, we will navigate to “Playa Escondida” (Hidden Beach) on Santa Cruz. Depending on ocean conditions, we may disembark to relax on its cream-colored sands surrounded by turquoise water before enjoying lunch on board.
02:00 PM — Optional Fishing & Return
As we sail back to Puerto Ayora, the captain may offer an optional experiential fishing activity. Relax on the deck and take in the final Galapagos sea breeze.
What’s Included
- ✓ English/Spanish Certified Guide
- ✓ Transfer to the boarding pier
- ✓ Fresh Lunch & Snacks
- ✓ Full Snorkeling Gear
- ✓ Long-sleeve Wetsuit
Not Included
- ✕ Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages
- ✕ Tips and personal expenses
Essential Packing List
Get ready for a day focused heavily on marine exploration. We recommend bringing the following items to maximize your comfort:
- Swimwear – Wear it under your clothes for convenience.
- Underwater Camera – A must-have for the playful sea lions!
- Sun Protection – Reef-safe sunscreen, a good hat, and sunglasses.
- Comfortable Sandals/Shoes – For the potential landing at Hidden Beach.
- Towel & Dry Clothes – To warm up and dry off after snorkeling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I swim with sea lions on this tour?
How long is the boat ride to Santa Fe Island?
Will we step foot on the island?
Are the white-tip reef sharks dangerous?
How many people will be on the boat?
Flexible Cancellation Policy
• Full Refund: Guaranteed for cancellations made at least 15 days before the departure date.
• No Refund: Cancellations made within 14 days of the tour, or “No Shows”, will incur a 100% penalty.
• Weather Guarantee: If port authorities cancel departures due to extreme weather, we offer a full refund or free rescheduling.