We left our hotel at approximately 7:30 to drive across Santa Cruz to get to the boat we would take to South Plaza. We had taken our seasickness pills and were ready for the trip. This was a key to our continued happiness in the Galapagos. Sunblock and lots of water are the rest of the formula.

Off the east coast of Santa Cruz there are two small crescent-shaped islands. Only South Plaza has a visitor site, however, as North Plaza is only used for research purposes.This again shows the great care the Ecuadorian government takes to protect the Galapagos Islands while giving controlled access to tourists.

Although South Plaza is a small island, it is home to a wide variety of species and is famous for its extraordinary flora, especially the beautiful succulent Sesuvium, which changes from bright green in the rainy season to red, orange and purple during the dry season. We were there in the dry season and saw it in its colorful form with abundant prickly pear cactus trees (Opunta cacti) growing in the same area. With the turquoise water, white sand and black volcanic rock, the effect is beautiful.

South Plaza is also home to a large colony of sea lions, marine and land iguanas and marine birds. Sally Lightfoot crabs add a dash of color as they scramble over the black lava rocks. There are two things to remember as you tour the island. First, stay on the trail. This is easy to do as it is well-marked. In any case you will always be with a guide as you are not allowed on the island without one. Secondly, be careful not to step on an iguana. These animals have no fear of humans so you may have to literally step over an iguana which has chosen to sun itself on the path. The sea lions are quite playful and have been known to make it difficult to land. The trail gradually follows the tilt of the island to the cliffs that overlook the ocean to the south.  

 
Compared to Floreana the conservation issues on South Plaza are small. According to the Galapagos Conservancy introduced mice were responsible (at least in part) for the decline in the cactus population, an important food source for land iguanas. Although the mice were eradicated in late 2012, an ongoing challenge is the long-term restoration of the cactus forest while maintaining a healthy land iguana population.

This island is full of life. There are colonies of sea lions and land iguanas. On the steep banks it is possible to see a great number of birds such as nesting tropic birds and fork-tailed seagulls. You can enjoy the view from the steep banks or stroll along the base of the cliff.