Santiago Island (Galapagos)

Santiago Island is one of the Galapagos Islands. It is also famous as San Salvador, named after the first isle discovered by Columbus in the Caribbean, or as James Island. Santiago Island consists of 2 overlapping volcanoes, and has an area of 585 km2 (226 ml2) and a max altitude of 907 m (2,976 ft), atop its northwestern shield volcano. At Sullivan Bay, a recent pahoehoe lava flow (1897) can be observed.

One of the best sites is Puerto Egas, west side of Santiago and south of James Bay. There is a long, lava shoreline where the eroded rock formations house a variety of wildlife. The tide pools contain Sally Lightfoot crabs, attracting other types of hunters. Marine iguanas bask in the sun. Following the trail Fur seal lions are also found. Puerto Egas is not only a lovely spot for taking pictures but also good for snorkeling and seeing a wealth of species of tropical fish.

Sullivan Bay is particularly fascinating for those interested in volcanology and geology. Walk over the uneroded, black lava flow with lava bubbles and tree-trunk molds in its surface. There are acouple of small beaches where turtles come to nest. Cousin's Rock is a famous dive site situated off the east coast of Santiago. It's a triangular rock rising about 33 ft (10 m) out of the water and is made up of layers of volcanic rock. Chinaman's Hat (Sombrero Chino) is a small islet off Santiago's southeastern tip. A 52m-high volcanic cone, it's named for its resemblance to conical Asian hat.

Close to Santiago (to the southeast) is located the Chinese Hat Island - an excellent snorkelling destination.

Santiago Island cruise terminal

Santiago Island tours, shore excursions, hotels

City Tours and Shore Excursions

Popular Santiago Island shore excursion destinations are:

• guided walks
• panga boat rides
• snorkeling
• Playa Espumilla (beach)
• Bahia Sullivan (Sullivan Bay)