Tours and Tickets to Experience Santa Cruz Island (Isla Santa Cruz)

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.

Free Cancellation
3 hours

from $75

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

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

4.8

(48)

Free Cancellation
4 hours

from $68

Santa Cruz Highlands Tour with Tortoise and Lava Tunnels

Explore the stunning Santa Cruz Highlands on a private half-day tour from Puerto Ayora. Witness the iconic Galapagos tortoises at either El Chato reserve or Rancho Primicias. Marvel at the historic lava tunnels. This tour offers the convenience of a private driver, ensuring a comfortable journey with personalized attention throughout your adventure. - Private hotel pick-up and drop-off in Puerto Ayora - Visit the legendary Galapagos tortoises at El Chato or Rancho Primicias with your on-site guide - Explore Santa Cruz from underground in your historic on-site lava tunnels - Enjoy a flexible schedule in a private vehicle with your personal driver

Santa Cruz Highlands Tour with Tortoise and Lava Tunnels

(1)

Free Cancellation
3 to 4 hours

from $90

Per group

Bay Tour in Santa Cruz - Galapagos Islands

3.5

(28)

Bay Tour in Santa Cruz - Galapagos Islands

Free Cancellation
3 hours

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.

Bartolome Island Full Day Tour

4.8

(20)

10 hours

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.

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

(43)

3 to 4 hours

from $175

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.

Day Trip to North Seymour Island from Puerto Ayora

4.7

(16)

8 hours

from $370

BiciTour Giant Turtles and Lava Tunnel in Galapagos

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.

BiciTour Giant Turtles and Lava Tunnel in Galapagos

4.9

(45)

Free Cancellation
4 hours 30 minutes

from $90

Day Trip to Bartolome Island from Puerto Ayora

4.9

(35)

Day Trip to Bartolome Island from Puerto Ayora

8 hours

from $384

Full Day Seymour North Island & Las Bachas

Full Day Seymour North Island & Las Bachas

(1)

8 hours

from $415

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.

Day Trip to Isabela Island and Tintoreras in Galápagos

4.0

(26)

Free Cancellation
8 hours

from $246

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.

Beach Wildlife and Snorkel Adventure with Underwater Specialist

(15)

4 to 5 hours

from $179

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.

Likely to Sell Out

Galapagos- Santa Cruz Explorer 4 days

4.5

(6)

4 days

from $453

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.

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

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

4.8

(37)

Free Cancellation
3 hours 30 minutes

from $214

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.

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

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

4.5

(22)

2 to 5 hours

from $9

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.

Giant Tortoises & Lava Tunnels Experience with Dome Stay

(13)

Free Cancellation
1 day

from $66

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.

Full Day Bartolome Island & Sullivan Bay

Full Day Bartolome Island & Sullivan Bay

3.5

(6)

8 hours

from $450

Seymour North Island & Las Bachas Full-Day Tour

3.4

(10)

Seymour North Island & Las Bachas Full-Day Tour

Free Cancellation
9 hours

from $378

5-Day All-Inclusive Galapagos: Isabela and Santa Cruz Island

3.9

(12)

5-Day All-Inclusive Galapagos: Isabela and Santa Cruz Island

5 days

from $1,414

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

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

4.7

(55)

5 days

from $1,353

Full Day Santa Fe Playa escondida snorkeling tour

3.8

(13)

Full Day Santa Fe Playa escondida snorkeling tour

Free Cancellation
8 hours

from $220

Embark on a captivating Galapagos Coffee experience, delving deep into local agriculture where locals demonstrate the delicate process of selecting and gathering coffee beans. Nestled amidst breathtaking landscapes, the stunning surroundings of the farm feature lush vegetation and innovative hydroponic setups. Immerse yourself in the local culture as you interact with friendly residents, gaining insights into their way of life and the rich traditions that shape their community. This unique journey not only offers a taste of exceptional coffee but also a profound connection to the heart and soul of Galapagos' agricultural heritage, making it an unforgettable adventure.

Darwin's Coffee Quest Experience

(7)

Free Cancellation
3 hours

from $121

Private Charles Darwin Station Tour &Tortuga Bay Beach with lunch

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.

Private Charles Darwin Station Tour &Tortuga Bay Beach with lunch

4.3

(12)

8 hours

from $279

Galapagos Enchanting 3 Islands (5 Days)

4.6

(17)

Free Cancellation
5 days

from $1,099

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

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

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.

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!!!

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

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.

Emily_R, Nov 2025

Well organized and...

Well organized and awesome experience. My only negative comment is that this is well overpriced for what it is, but if you want a hassle-free experience, then this is perfect. Our guide, Jefferson, was super friendly and informative, and overall a great pleasure.

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.