South Plaza Island is a must-visit destination in the Galapagos, offering an incredible mix of wildlife, snorkeling, and breathtaking landscapes. Unlike many other islands, South Plaza stands out for its vibrant vegetation, with a striking carpet of red and purple Sesuvium blending beautifully with towering prickly pear cacti.
Wildlife lovers will be captivated by the island’s unique hybrid iguanas, a rare mix of land and marine iguanas found only here. The island is also a haven for nesting seabirds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. Ready to explore? Keep reading to discover what makes South Plaza so special, the wildlife encounters you can expect, and the best activities to enjoy on this remarkable Galapagos island!
Come and experience the stunning contrasts of South Plaza, where wildlife and nature collide in an unforgettable Galapagos adventure!
South Plaza is one of two small, crescent-shaped islands off the eastern coast of Santa Cruz. While its twin, North Plaza, is off-limits to tourists for conservation purposes, South Plaza is open for exploration, offering a unique blend of striking landscapes and abundant wildlife.
Formed by volcanic uplift, South Plaza showcases a dramatic contrast between its rugged southern cliffs and its gentler northern beaches. The elevated cliffs were raised higher, creating a natural sanctuary for nesting seabirds.
South Plaza is a must-visit for nature lovers, where vibrant landscapes and fascinating wildlife come together in an unforgettable Galapagos experience!
South Plaza Island’s landscape is a visual feast, especially for photographers. The island is covered in Sesuvium (Galapagos Carpetweed), which changes color with the seasons. During the rainy season, it’s a lush green, while the dry season brings red, orange, and purple hues, creating a vibrant contrast with green cacti and white lichen rocks. The island is also home to Prickly Pear Cactus (Opuntia), which forms cactus forests.
These plants are essential food sources for land iguanas and Cactus Finches. South Plaza’s plants adapt cleverly to the climate, showcasing the island’s dynamic and colorful environment.
A One-of-a-Kind Iguana Haven
South Plaza Island holds a unique distinction in the Galapagos Islands—it is the only place where land iguanas and marine iguanas share the same habitat! These two species are usually easy to tell apart due to their differences in size, coloration, and behavior, but here, something truly special has occurred:
Meet the Hybrid Iguana
When land and marine iguanas interbreed, they create the rare Hybrid Iguana a fascinating evolutionary phenomenon. These hybrids:
Since their numbers are limited and they tend to blend into the landscape, spotting a hybrid iguana is a true wildlife treasure hunt.
There are two main ways to visit South Plaza:
Wildlife Encounters:
Important Note: Wildlife sightings are always unpredictable, and activities may be subject to change at the discretion of your guide or the Galapagos National Park Authority.
In summary, South Plaza Island is a must-visit destination, especially during the dry season when the vibrant vegetation transforms into a breathtaking mix of reds, oranges, and purples. The island’s unique iguana population—with land, marine, and hybrid iguanas—makes for an exciting wildlife experience.
For birdwatchers, South Plaza is a paradise with a variety of nesting seabirds, while snorkelers can explore a thriving underwater world. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, photographer, or adventure seeker, South Plaza delivers an unforgettable Galapagos experience!
Thomas de Berlanga sector s/n in front of Santa Cruz Garden, Puerto Ayora
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