Santa Cruz Island (Isla Santa Cruz) Tours and Tickets

Q: How much does it cost to visit Santa Cruz Island (Isla Santa Cruz) in 2026?

Santa Cruz Island is part of the Galapagos archipelago in Ecuador, so you’ll need to travel by land and boat to discover all it has to offer, which is best done on a tour. Half-day tours of Santa Cruz start at around US$70, while 5-day tours covering several islands cost around US$1,353.

Q: What are the main attractions on Santa Cruz Island?

The main attractions on Santa Cruz Island include the Charles Darwin Research Foundation, where you can explore decades worth of scientific research, and Las Grietas, a collection of rocky islets in the ocean home to enormous sea turtles and volcanic flora such as cacti. You’re also likely to spot blue-footed boobies and Galapagos penguins here.

Q: What kind of accommodation can you find on Santa Cruz Island?

You’ll find the largest selection of accommodation in Puerto Ayora, the main city in Santa Cruz, which has public buses, a ferry terminal, and taxis for hire. There are no high-rise hotels here, but there are plenty of 3- to 4-star apartment rentals and mid-range hotels that offer a base for island-hopping in the archipelago.

Q: What wildlife can you see on Santa Cruz Island?

The Galapagos Islands are one of the most biodiverse places on the planet, so it’ll come as no surprise that wildlife here is plentiful. Santa Cruz creatures include the jet-black marine iguanas, who look particularly impressive when they swim; giant tortoises; Darwin finches; and, of course, sea lions—you'll see them swimming and lounging on land almost everywhere on the island.

Q: What are the best beaches on Santa Cruz Island?

The best beaches on Santa Cruz Island include Tortuga Bay, renowned for its snorkeling, the turtles that lay their eggs there, and the black marine iguanas that like to warm their cold blood on the sand. Another top beach is El Garrapatero, which is beside a flamingo-filled lagoon ideal for kayaking.

100+ results

Best Seller

Half Day Bay Tour in Santa Cruz Island

3 hoursFree Cancellation

4.3

(55)

from $75

Giant Tortoises Tour, Lava Tunnels & Stop at Los Gemelos Craters”

On this exciting tour, tourists will have the opportunity to explore two amazing places in the Galapagos. At our first stop, the frontier Galapagos Reserve, where you can marvel at the majestic giant turtles, explore fascinating lava tunnels and admire the diverse bird species and endemic forest in the transition zone. You can also walk on trails surrounded by more than 20 different species of fruit trees. An expert guide will be at your side to give you detailed information about the unique ecology of the Galapagos. Next, The Taxi will take you to the (Twins) which are impressive volcanic craters that formed due to past volcanic activity. The view from this point is breathtaking, where you can admire the large dimension of these craters and also observe endemic birds flying freely and the forest vegetation and can take photos. The visit to the craters does not include a guide only taxi service.

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Giant Tortoises Tour, Lava Tunnels & Stop at Los Gemelos Craters”

4 hoursFree Cancellation

4.7

(51)

from $68

Bay Tour in Santa Cruz - Galapagos Islands

3 hoursFree Cancellation

3.5

(28)

from $60

Explore the iconic area of Bartolome Island on a full-day tour from Puerto Ayora. This volcanic island is rich in biodiversity both on land and underwater. Take in the beautiful landscapes from the viewpoint at the top of the island and discover the abundant marine life with a snorkeling excursion. Enjoy a boxed lunch and listen to informative commentary from your guide throughout the day.

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Bartolome Island Full Day Tour

10 hours

4.8

(21)

from $378

Day Trip to Bartolome Island from Puerto Ayora

8 hours

4.9

(35)

from $384

Day Trip to North Seymour Island from Puerto Ayora

After pickup from your Puerto Ayora hotel, you’ll board a yacht bound for North Seymour Island. This day tour is a birdwatcher’s dream trip, with the likelihood to spot frigate birds, blue footed boobies, and swallow tailed gulls. Follow private guide on a hike around the island, before you enjoy swimming and snorkeling amongst the sea lions. Relax as you return to Puerto Ayora and are dropped off at your hotel.

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Day Trip to North Seymour Island from Puerto Ayora

8 hours

4.7

(16)

from $370

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Day Trip to Isabela Island and Tintoreras in Galápagos

Make the most of your vacation with a small-group day tour from Puerto Ayora to Isabela Island, offering an ideal Galapagos Islands experience that combines education and adventure. Explore Isabela Island's diverse flora and fauna during a ground tour, spotting land turtles, flamingos, and zarapitos. Later, enjoy swimming and snorkeling at las Tintoreras with tropical fish, penguins, and turtles for the ultimate wildlife excursion.

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Day Trip to Isabela Island and Tintoreras in Galápagos

8 hoursFree Cancellation

This experience combines 50% cycling and 50% walking, allowing you to explore the nature of the Santa Cruz Highlands in an active and close way. We will meet in the San Francisco Park of Puerto Ayora, where we will collect bicycles and safety helmets. From there we will take a bus to the area of Los Guayabillos, where we will begin our bicycle tour descending through the rural part of the island. Along the way we will cross agricultural landscapes and natural forests where you can observe fruit trees, Galapagos coffee plantations and rural life of the island. Upon arrival at Galapagos Frontier, we will continue the experience with a guided hike through the nature reserve, where you can observe giant turtles in their natural habitat and explore the fascinating lava tunnels formed by ancient volcanic eruptions. This tour is ideal for those looking for an active experience that combines adventure and nature.

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BiciTour Giant Turtles and Lava Tunnel in Galapagos

4 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

4.9

(45)

from $90

Seymour North Island & Las Bachas Full-Day Tour

9 hoursFree Cancellation

3.4

(10)

from $378

Meet a 150-Year-Old Giant Tortoise in the Galapagos Highlands

With so much to do in Santa Cruz, it can be overwhelming to organize everything on your own. Make one of your adventures completely stress-free with a 3-hour afternoon tour to three of the island's top sights. Along with your naturalist guide, visit the Los Gremelos volcanic formations, hike the Scalesia Cloud forest, and get cozy with local wildlife at the Giant Tortoise Wildlife Reserve. Finally, have your camera ready for a jaunt through a lava tube.

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Meet a 150-Year-Old Giant Tortoise in the Galapagos Highlands

3 to 4 hours

5.0

(44)

from $175

Full Day Santa Fe Playa escondida snorkeling tour

8 hoursFree Cancellation

3.6

(14)

from $230

Full Day Bartolome Island & Sullivan Bay

Visit Bartolome Island and for a day of hiking and snorkeling with this small-group tour from Puerto Ayora. You'll take a hike up to the volcanic top of the island to take in great views of the surrounding area before continuing to Playa Dorada, known for its resident penguins. While at the beach, you'll get the chance to snorkel in the waters of Sullivan Bay before returning to Puerto Ayora.

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Full Day Bartolome Island & Sullivan Bay

8 hours

3.5

(6)

from $460

Likely to Sell Out

Referred to as the “Enchanted Islands,” the Galapagos Islands, situated off the coast of Ecuador, boast thrilling adventures as well as relaxation. On this 3-night excursion, head to Santa Cruz from the Baltra Airport. Positioned at the center of the archipelago, it features rich flora and fauna along with rugged landscapes and dense forests. Here, you’ll witness the breeding process of the tortoises. Also visit Tortuga Beach where you can catch glimpses of animal and plant species, including the lava lizards, finches, and others.

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Galapagos- Santa Cruz Explorer 4 days

4 days

4.5

(6)

from $453

Price varies by group size

Transfer Airport-hotel in Galapagos Santa Cruz with visit to Giant Tortoises

Optimize your time in Galapagos! By visiting the giant tortoise reserve and lava tunnels upon arrival you can save time and use it for other activities. Normally the transfer from the airport is direct and non-stop, the next day they take you back to the upper part of the island to visit the turtles and tunnels, which makes you lose a day in Galapagos. With us you win a day as you visit these attractions upon arrival.

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Transfer Airport-hotel in Galapagos Santa Cruz with visit to Giant Tortoises

3 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

4.8

(37)

from $214

Price varies by group size

Kayaking Experience in Franklin Bay

2 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

4.8

(5)

from $95

Giant Tortoises & Lava Tunnels Experience with Dome Stay

Experience the magic of the Galapagos Highlands at The Tortoise Dome Lodge, a peaceful eco-lodge located inside a private reserve on Santa Cruz Island where giant tortoises roam freely and visitors can explore impressive lava tunnels surrounded by lush endemic vegetation. This unique experience combines nature, adventure, and comfort in a tranquil setting far from the crowded tourist areas. During your visit you will enjoy a guided walk through the private reserve, where you can observe Galapagos giant tortoises in their natural habitat, explore fascinating lava tunnels formed by ancient volcanic eruptions, and learn about the flora, fauna, and volcanic history of the islands. You will also walk through the endemic highland forest, where it is common to see native birds and unique vegetation typical of the Galapagos ecosystem. As part of the experience, guests will also enjoy an overnight stay in our private dome at The Tortoise Dome Lodge, surrounded by nature and tranquility.

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Giant Tortoises & Lava Tunnels Experience with Dome Stay

1 dayFree Cancellation

5.0

(14)

from $66

Price varies by group size

Beach Wildlife and Snorkel Adventure with Underwater Specialist

Experience the duality of Tortuga Bay, a paradisiacal white sand beach, with a private, organized excursion. Discover from "Playa Brava" to up-close encounters with majestic marine iguanas. Our expert guide will lead you to a viewpoint offering spectacular vistas before exploring the serene side of Tortuga Bay, with gentle waves and minimal currents. Traverse trails for sightings of endemic birds and a shark pool. Dive into crystal-clear waters for snorkeling, where encounters with sea turtles, rays and small sharks await. Ideal for those who wish to make the most of such a prestigious location and there is no better way to explore this site than with an experienced and knowledgeable underwater specialist, who will make sure you get the best snorkel experience. This calm beach at the same time is the pefect place to practise some snorkeling if you haven't done it before and as preparation for any snorkel trips by boat that you might participate in afterwards.

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Beach Wildlife and Snorkel Adventure with Underwater Specialist

4 to 5 hours

5.0

(15)

from $179

Price varies by group size

Skip the Line:El Chato 2 Reserve Admission Ticket in Santa Cruz Island,Galapagos

While on Santa Cruz Island, don’t miss the chance to see Galápagos giant tortoises in their natural environment. This admission ticket grants you access to the nature trails and lava tunnels of El Chato Reserve, an easy 30-minute drive from Puerto Ayora. On this privately owned land, tortoises roam freely, and a self-guided walk allows for plenty of photo ops. Coffee, tea, and rubber boots are provided for convenience.

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Skip the Line:El Chato 2 Reserve Admission Ticket in Santa Cruz Island,Galapagos

Explore the island of Santa Cruz during your time in the Galapagos on this full-day excursion. Join your dedicated guide for a walk from Puerto Ayora to Tortuga Bay, where you can relax on the beach and visit the marine iguana sanctuary. Then, enjoy a delicious lunch before heading to the Charles Darwin Research Station to learn about the geology, climate, natural history, and conservation of the Galapagos Islands.

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Private Charles Darwin Station Tour &Tortuga Bay Beach with lunch

8 hours

4.3

(12)

from $279

Price varies by group size

Galapagos Intensive 5 days, land base (3Islands) Excludes galapagos flight

Great tour, Galapagos Natural Life direct tour operator had designed this tour in order to know the better places to see widlife in Galapagos Island, 5 days with 3 islands, you Will se the most representative animals in Galapagos islans as Giant tortoise, blue footed booby , penguins, sea lions, marine iguanas, corral sharks, flamingos, darwin finches and more, we included in our Budget tourist class accommodation but you can ask for upgrade to superior or firts class accommodation, we can open new departures any day with minimun one passenger, our rates doesn't include galapagos flight

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Galapagos Intensive 5 days, land base (3Islands) Excludes galapagos flight

5 days

4.7

(55)

from $1,353

GALAPAGOS in ELECTRIC BICYCLE + Giant Turtles

Embark on a unique Galapagos adventure: Explore the majestic upper part of Santa Cruz Island by bike and immerse yourself in the wonder of nature! Pedal along picturesque trails, admire the iconic giant tortoises in their natural habitat, and let the magic of the Galapagos envelop you. Ready to live an unforgettable experience? Hop on your bike and join us to discover the wild beauty of the Santa Cruz Heights! ‍♂️ Remember to be prepared according to the season of your visit, it may be a humid season (rain and sun) and be prepared with repellent and sunscreen. The level of demand of the route is minimal, after knowing and seeing the turtles in their natural state we have a short section where the ascent tests our physique a little.

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GALAPAGOS in ELECTRIC BICYCLE + Giant Turtles

4 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

4.9

(32)

from $130

The Galapagos Islands are home to distinct species and populations of animals, including penguins, iguanas, sea lions, turtles, and more. Wildlife in the Galapagos Islands are uniquely unafraid of humans. This program is a more economic way to explore the Galapagos Islands, a land based tour. Activities in this program include swimming, snorkeling, with marine animals, hiking, bird watching, and walking among giant Galapagos tortoises.

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8 Day Galapagos Island Hopping

8 days

4.6

(7)

from $1,829

Price varies by group size

Santa Cruz Highland Tour: Giant Tortoises, Lava Tunnel & Gemelos

This tour will allow you to get to see the highlights of Santa Cruz' Highlands, including the giant tortoises in their natural habitat, an impressive underground lava tunnel and the famous Twin Craters "Los Gemelos". This definitely is a rewarding visit for nature loving people and a must-do when in Galapgos. The lush green scenery of the highlands is in stark contrast to the more arid lowland coasts, providing a very different Galapagos experience.

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Santa Cruz Highland Tour: Giant Tortoises, Lava Tunnel & Gemelos

3 to 4 hours

4.6

(5)

from $158

Price varies by group size

6-Day Galapagos Island Hopping Tour: Santa Fe, Santa Cruz and Los Tuneles

Each island in the Galapagos archipelago offers a different experience. Visit several during this all-inclusive island-hopping budget adventure; Los Tuneles, Santa Fe and Tintoreras are some of the islands you will get to visit! By day, travel by speedboat to some of the islands’ most important sights, and at night sleep peacefully at hotels on solid ground. A small group size of 15 pax. maximum means you have more time to ask questions of your naturalist guide and observe native wildlife at close range.

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6-Day Galapagos Island Hopping Tour: Santa Fe, Santa Cruz and Los Tuneles

6 days

4.7

(28)

from $1,926

Price varies by group size

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What are people saying about Santa Cruz Island (Isla Santa Cruz)

6-Day Galapagos Island Hopping Tour: Santa Fe, Santa Cruz and Los Tuneles

Jane_H, Mar 2026

Gotta go to Galapagos

The snorkeling was excellent! Viator was great with communication and reliability, and responsiveness. Met nice people.

Half Day Bay Tour in Santa Cruz Island

Katherine_C, Feb 2026

Best blue footed boobies viewing!

Best viewing of Blue footed Boobies during our trip. Also saw sharks in open snorkeling area and swim was very refreshing.

Transfer Airport-hotel in Galapagos Santa Cruz with visit to Giant Tortoises

cgal2105, Feb 2026

We had an amazing big...

We had an amazing big day!! What a wonderful welcome to the Galápagos Islands!! Everything was taken care of for us so no need to worry about bus and ferry tickets or luggage, explored despite the rain (and kept the luggage totally dry) and got to visit the tortoise reserve!!! Thank you again for a wonderful introduction to the Galapagos!!!

Half Day Bay Tour in Santa Cruz Island

Ramina_B, Feb 2026

The tour was fun and our...

The tour was fun and our guide was very nice. The communication for pick up location was very good. There is walking over the rocks so wear good shoes.

6-Day Galapagos Island Hopping Tour: Santa Fe, Santa Cruz and Los Tuneles

Xingxian_L, Oct 2025

Stress-Free Trip with Incredible Snorkeling Every Day

he tour package was excellent! What I liked most was how seamlessly everything was organized—transportation, pick-up, meals, and hotel. The tour operator coordinated everything behind the scenes, and everyone knew exactly what to do and was on time every single day. Very impressive! We snorkeled every day and saw all kinds of animals, including a seahorse and an eagle ray. All the guides were extremely knowledgeable, and the entire experience was so much fun.

Half Day Bay Tour in Santa Cruz Island

Jenna_M, Feb 2026

Great tour!

Incredible experience with a naturalist tour guide who helped us see reef sharks, blue-footed boobies, turtles, and more. Definitely recommend for visitors to Santa Cruz! Would've liked more info about what to bring on the tour as there was a bit of walking on rocks. Snacks and cold drinks were such a plus. Overall, we loved the experience! It is worth giving yourself a few extra minutes to figure out which boat will be yours, since the emails won't tell you and you have to ask dock staff.

Santa Cruz Highland Tour: Giant Tortoises, Lava Tunnel & Gemelos

Betty_M, Sep 2024

Unforgettable experience

Our guide, Gabriel, was knowledgeable and friendly. Seeing the tortoises in their natural habitat was amazing. The lava tunnels were very cool as well as seeing the craters. Gabriel shared so much information about everything we saw and did. Once in a lifetime experience. There are a lot of these tours to choose from. So glad this is the one we picked.