Santiago Island (Isla Santiago), also known as James Island or Isla San Salvador, actually consists of two coalesced volcanos: a typical shield volcano on the northwest end and a low, linear fissure volcano on the southeast end. Subtle differences in lava chemistry confirm that there are two volcanos here, and indicate that each has its own plumbing system and each taps a different melting zone in the mantle.

Egas Port Highlights:
With its sandy beach, black rocks, and blue-water grottos, this stop offers a taste of Galapagos geology, great snorkeling, and an opportunity to see shorebirds and Galapagos fur seals.

The wet landing on the dark sands of Puerto Egas leads to one of the more rewarding visits in the Galapagos, the Fur Seal Grotto. Here one can get very close views of both fur seals and sea lions in a series of rocky pools. For many, this is the only opportunity to see the Galapagos fur seal, once thought to be on the verge of extinction. In addition to the fur seals. This site also offers the best opportunity for tide-pooling in the Galapagos.

Excursion options include a long walk along the shore to the grottos to see fur seals, followed by optional swimming and snorkeling or a shorter coastal walk, and optional swimming and snorkeling. This is a wet landing.