Walking Lava and Coast on Santiago

Santiago has no town, so there are no city walking tours, markets or self-guided routes. The walks that exist are guided trails inside Galapagos National Park, reached by boat and walked in a group with a park-authorised naturalist. Independent walking is not possible on Santiago.

Sullivan Bay lava walk

The trail crosses a young pahoehoe flow from the late 19th century, commonly dated to 1897. It runs roughly 1.5 km. About 150 m from the start you reach tree molds, hollow casts left where lava closed around tree trunks. Hornitos, small lava mounds, and ropey surfaces line the way. There is no shade, and the surface can feel very hot in full sun.

Puerto Egas coast walk

At Puerto Egas in James Bay the path follows a lava shelf above a black-sand beach, where Galapagos fur seals and young sea lions rest. The coastal walk is about 2 km. On some itineraries a longer inland trail climbs toward the rim of a salt crater, and the lagoon itself is closed to visitors. Ask your guide which route your group will take.

Espumilla Beach

Espumilla is the shortest walk of the three. Operator programmes pair a short hike with snorkeling, for about one hour in total. The sand is reddish-gold and the landing is wet. Green turtles nest on the beach, and the lagoon behind it holds white-cheeked pintails.

Footwear and sun

  • Wear sturdy closed shoes. The lava is sharp and uneven.
  • Bring a hat, sunscreen and water, since there is no shade on the lava.
  • Expect wet or dry landings depending on conditions, and carry shoes you can wade in.
  • Keep to the marked path and follow your guide.

Rules on the trail

Stay at least 2 m from wildlife even if an animal approaches, do not use flash, and do not fly drones. Big male sea lions can be aggressive, so give them room.

How to reach the trails

Visits come with a multi-day cruise or a full-day boat trip from Santa Cruz, with a hotel pickup at about 6:00, about 40 minutes by road and about 2 hours by boat. The park entrance fee for foreign visitors aged 12 and over is $200, and the Transit Control Card is $20. The park rules and the official fee table give the details.

Compare guided outings on GetYourGuide .

Read more: guided tours , sightseeing and activities .