Santa Fe (Galapagos) Travel Guide

A comprehensive travel guide for Santa Fe (Galapagos) including cultural and natural attractions, activities, food, accommodations, local customs, safety and logistics information.


Introduction to Santa Fe (Galapagos)

Santa Fe, one of the oldest islands in the Galapagos Archipelago, is famous for its beautiful beaches, unique wildlife and breathtaking natural landscapes. The island was named after a Spanish city and the presence of a healthy sea lion population adds to its charm. Santa Fe (or Barrington, as it is also known) has wide sandy beaches with calm turquoise waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The island is also a popular destination for hiking and diving enthusiasts, as it offers challenging trails and diving sites.

List of Places to Visit in Santa Fe (Galapagos)

Santa Fe offers visitors a variety of cultural and natural attractions. Here is a list of must-visit places:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Charles Darwin Research Station: This research center is dedicated to the conservation of the Galapagos Islands and the preservation of their unique ecosystem. Visitors can learn about the history of the islands and the work done to protect their wildlife and habitats.

Natural Attractions of Santa Fe (Galapagos): Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Santa Fe Beach: This stunning beach is one of the most famous in the Galapagos Islands. Its crystal-clear waters are home to tropical fish, sea turtles, and playful sea lions.

  • Cerro Mesa: This volcanic crater offers panoramic views of the island and its surroundings. Visitors can hike to the top and enjoy a stunning sunset.

  • Barrington Bay: This beautiful bay is home to a variety of marine life, including sea turtles, rays, and sharks. Its calm waters are perfect for snorkeling.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Santa Fe (Galapagos)

Santa Fe has several hiking trails offering scenic vistas and unique encounters with wildlife. Visitors can enjoy hiking to the island’s highest point or along its rugged coastline. The island is also popular with biking enthusiasts, as it offers challenging trails with beautiful views.

Best Things to Do in Santa Fe (Galapagos): Activities and Tours

Santa Fe offers a variety of activities and tours for visitors to enjoy. Here are some must-try options:

  • Snorkeling: The turquoise waters around Santa Fe are perfect for snorkeling, allowing visitors to explore the incredible underwater world of the Galapagos Islands.

  • Diving: Santa Fe is one of the best places for diving in the Galapagos Islands. Its clear waters allow divers to see a diverse range of marine life, including sea lions, rays, and even sharks.

  • Wildlife Watching: Visitors can get up close and personal with a variety of wildlife on Santa Fe, including sea lions, iguanas, and rare bird species.

Week-Long Itinerary for Santa Fe (Galapagos)

Day 1: Arrival and check-in. Snorkeling at Santa Fe Beach. Day 2: Hike to the island’s highest point. Visit the Charles Darwin Research Center. Day 3: Snorkeling excursion to explore marine life in the Barrington Bay. Day 4: Diving experience around the island. Day 5: Enjoy a bike ride around the island. Day 6: Visit the famous Cerro Mesa Volcano. Day 7: Departure.

Food and Drink Scene of Santa Fe (Galapagos)

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ceviche: A popular Ecuadorian seafood dish made from marinated raw fish, lime, and onions. The use of fresh seafood gives it a rich taste.

  • Encebollado: A traditional Ecuadorian soup made with fish, yuca (cassava), and onions.

Local Beverages

  • Canelazo: A warm drink made with cinnamon and alcohol, cinnamon sticks, and fruit juices, traditionally served during the Christmas season.

  • Fruit Juices: Visitors can enjoy fresh fruit juices made from the island’s produce, including passion fruit, guava, and tangerines.

Where to Stay in Santa Fe (Galapagos): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Santa Fe offers various accommodation options for visitors to choose from, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Here are some popular choices:

  • Hotel Santa Fe: Located in the heart of the island, this hotel offers comfortable rooms and beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.

  • Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel: This eco-friendly hotel offers luxurious accommodation and is located just a short distance from the beach.

  • Pimampiro Guesthouse: A family-run guesthouse offering visitors a comfortable stay in a peaceful island setting.

What to Buy in Santa Fe (Galapagos): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handicrafts: Visitors can purchase handmade crafts made by local artisans, including baskets, woven hats, and carved wooden sculptures.

  • Coffee: The Galapagos Islands produce high-quality coffee that visitors can take home as a souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Santa Fe (Galapagos)

Visitors are expected to respect the local culture and customs of Santa Fe when visiting. Here are some things to keep in mind:

  • Clothing: Visitors are advised to dress appropriately when exploring the island. Shorts, t-shirts, and sandals are acceptable for casual wear, but formal attire is expected for more formal occasions.

  • Etiquette: Visitors are expected to greet locals when passing them on the street and show respect for the elderly.

Best Time to Visit Santa Fe (Galapagos)

The best time to visit Santa Fe is between December and May when the weather is dry and warm. This is also the time when visitors can witness sea turtles laying eggs on the island’s beaches.

Do’s and Don’ts of Santa Fe (Galapagos)

Do:

  • Respect wildlife: Visitors are expected to maintain a safe distance from wildlife and avoid disturbing them.

  • Preserve the environment: Visitors should avoid littering and respect the natural environment of the island.

Don’t:

  • Remove anything from the island: It is illegal to remove anything from the island, including rocks, shells, and plant life.

  • Feed the animals: Visitors are not allowed to feed the animals on the island as it may disrupt their natural diets.

Safety and Health

Safety in Santa Fe (Galapagos)

The island of Santa Fe is generally safe for visitors, but it is always important to take precautions when traveling. Here are some tips:

  • Stay aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure.
  • Avoid unlit areas at night.
  • Watch out for wildlife when hiking or snorkeling, and don’t get too close.

Health in Santa Fe (Galapagos)

Visitors should take the following health precautions when visiting Santa Fe:

  • Drink bottled or treated water.
  • Protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen and hats.
  • Bring insect repellent to protect yourself from mosquito bites.

Getting to Santa Fe (Galapagos): Transportation Options and Logistics

Visitors can reach Santa Fe via air and sea. Here are some options:

Airports Near Santa Fe (Galapagos)

The nearest airport to Santa Fe is the Seymour Airport in Baltra. From the airport, visitors can reach Santa Fe Island by boat.

Bus Stations Near Santa Fe (Galapagos)

There are no bus stations on the island of Santa Fe, but visitors can take a taxi or hire a local guide to explore the island.

Other Options

Visitors can also travel to Santa Fe via chartered boats that depart from the other islands in the Galapagos archipelago.

How to Get Around in Santa Fe (Galapagos)

Visitors can get around Santa Fe by foot, bike, or boat. The island is relatively small and easily navigable by foot or bike. Visitors can also explore the surrounding waters by boat, allowing them to get up close and personal with the island’s incredible marine life.

Where to Go Next from Santa Fe (Galapagos): Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are several other destinations in the Galapagos Islands that visitors can explore after visiting Santa Fe, including San Cristobal Island, Isabela Island, and Puerto Ayora.

Conclusion

Santa Fe is a unique and stunning destination that offers visitors a wide variety of cultural and natural attractions. From its incredible wildlife to its awe-inspiring outdoor adventures, there is something for everyone on this beautiful island. Visitors are encouraged to respect the local culture and customs of the island and take precautions to ensure their safety and health while exploring this incredible destination.