South Plaza Island, Galapagos

South Plaza, Santa Cruz, Galapagos

South Plaza Island in the Galapagos archipelago offers a unique and vibrant experience for visitors. With its stunning vegetation, including a colorful carpet of Sesuvium and majestic Opuntia cacti, the island is a paradise for nature lovers and photographers. South Plaza is known for its diverse wildlife, such as the unusual hybrid iguanas, nesting sea birds, and sea lions lazing on the beaches. Visitors can enjoy a moderate 2-hour hike through the island's arid scrubland and cactus forest, where they can encounter land iguanas feasting on fallen cacti fruit. The trail leads to a cliff plateau with panoramic views and a variety of seabird colonies, including blue-footed and Nazca boobies. Snorkeling in the channel between the North and South Islands offers an opportunity to explore colorful coral reefs and encounter marine life like reef sharks and sea lions. South Plaza is a must-visit destination, especially during the dry season when the vegetation bursts with vibrant hues, making it a photographer's delight.

Location

City: Santa Cruz

Region: Galapagos

Country: Ecuador

Coordinates: 0.6146° S, 90.5803° W