Santiago Island, Ecuador Cruises

Santiago Island, Ecuador Cruise Port

• Geology (and volcanology) fans will want to visit Sullivan Bay on the island's east coast, which is covered with un-eroded black lava. There are different fascinating patterns in the lava, such as rope, bubbles, and some pieces with fairly sharp edges. Keep an eye out for nesting turtles on the beaches.
   
• Teeming with wildlife, Cousins Rock is also one of the best-known dive sites in the Galápagos. Found off the east coast of the island, divers can spot marine creatures such as seahorses, frogfish, sea lions, eagle rays, and more.
   
• Located on Santiago's west site is Puerto Egas, one of the best sites to see the island's fur seals, thanks to its rocky grottos. It's also an excellent place to see the famous marine iguanas. Snorkelers will find some colorful tropical fish as well.
   
• Just off the southeastern tip of Santiago you'll find Sombrero Chino ("Chinese Hat"), a small islet made up of a fairly volcanic cone. There's a visitor's site and sea lion cove on the northern shore. From here, you can look toward Santiago and do some penguin-spotting.