AM: Rabida Island

Rábida Island stands out for its red rocks and sand. The volcanic material here is porous, changing color due to oxidation. A short trail leads to a lagoon where you can see land birds and a colony of flamingos. It is interesting to observe the pelicans diving in for fish. The red beach contrasts with the green vegetation.

Snorkeling is amongst the best as you swim along the coastline, playful sea lions join you. You can spot moray eels, small sharks, starfish and lots of colorful fish.

Photo: Donyanedomam

PM: Chinese Hat

Chinese Hat is a small islet off Santiago Island’s southeastern tip. This recent volcanic cone resembles a Chinese hat. Explore lava formations and observe sea lion colonies, lava lizards, marine iguanas, and Galapagos penguins. This is an island of colorful contrasts, the red vessuvium flowers, the sally lightfoot crabs and the orange beaks of the American oystercatchers contrast beautifully with the pahoe hoe lava fields and lava cacti.

It is also a nice spot for deep water snorkeling, the channel formed between Sombrero Chino and Santiago island creates are protected area with calm turquoise waters, yet deep enough to attract white-tipped reef sharks that sleep in the small caves formed below. You can also observe sting rays, parrot fish, Galapagos penguins, marine turtles and with luck dolphins and the rare visit of a whale-sharks.

Galapagos Islands Penguin | Bartolome Island

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