Santa Elena Peninsula facts for kids
The Santa Elena Peninsula is a piece of land that sticks out into the ocean in the Santa Elena Province of Ecuador. It's special because it holds the very western tip of mainland Ecuador. To its south, you'll find the Gulf of Guayaquil, and to its north is the Santa Elena Bay.
The land here is quite dry. But even so, it has important natural resources. People find salt mines here, and there's a big oil field near a town called Ancón. The town closest to the very end of the peninsula is Chinchipe. A road called Ecuador Highway 70 goes all the way to the tip, making it easy to reach.
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Amazing Wildlife
The waters around the Santa Elena Peninsula are a fantastic place to see marine animals. Many people enjoy whale watching here.
Humpback Whales
Every year, humpback whales travel to these warm, calm waters. They come during their migration seasons, often to have their babies or to find a mate. It's an incredible sight to see these huge, gentle creatures swimming and playing.
Dolphins
Besides whales, you can also spot different kinds of dolphins. Two common types are the pantropical spotted dolphin and the spinner dolphin. These playful animals often swim alongside boats, leaping and spinning in the water. It's a truly memorable experience for visitors.
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