Top Santa Cruz Outdoor Activities

After pick up from your hotel in Puerto Ayora, board a yacht for your private trip to Bartolome Island.  You’ll spend a fun filled day on one of the most photographed Galapagos islands. Your private guide will lead you to the top of the pinnacle rock.  Afterwards, sunbath on the beach or snorkel through the lava formations. You may even get to swim with sea turtles and penguins.

Often claimed as the best spot for snorkelling and an island not to be missed! This trip will include an unforgettable snorkelling experience with a very high chance of seeing marine turtles, sea lions, rays, white tip sharks and reef fish in crystal clear water. On occasion, you may even see some penguins! While snorkelling is the main activity, you’ll also be able to do some fishing during this trip if conditions allow it and if everyone on board wants to participate in this activity. It is your choice of what you do with your catch, either releasing back to the sea or getting our onboard chef to cook them for you! We are Ninfa Tour, a local Galapagos tour operator able to offer you local prices (the same as if you buy it in town). We are proud to have been running tours for 40 years and have delivered tours to over 100,000 happy customers!

Swim with playful sea lions and other Galapagos marine life on a small-group snorkeling and fishing tour to Santa Fe Island. A short boat ride from Puerto Ayora takes you to a peaceful bay with crystalline waters. Using provided snorkel gear, get up close to sea turtles, eagle rays, sharks, and a kaleidoscope of tropical fish. Later, take a wildlife tour of the island and have the chance to fish during the return journey.

Are you ready to live an unforgettable adventure in the wonderful Galapagos Islands? We invite you to discover the Galapagos Frontier reserve, a natural paradise where you can meet face to face with the legendary giant tortoises and explore the mysterious lava tunnels in their natural state. Our naturalist guide, with more than 30 years of experience, will take you on a fascinating journey through the endemic forest of the Galapagos. Breathe the fresh air and let yourself be enveloped by the exuberant flora and fauna that surrounds you. At each step, you will witness the unique beauty of endemic species such as owls, canaries and the famous Darwin's finches. But that is not all. Immerse yourself in an amazing underground world as you enter the lava tunnels. Marvel at the impressive formations of stalactites and stalagmites that have been forged over thousands of years. Discover the geological secrets of the Galapagos Islands as you come across the graceful Tito Alva owl.

Swim with sea lions, blue sharks, rays and sometimes with penguins. named as one of the best snorkeling activities from the sannta cruz island, it will undoubtedly give you an experience of never forgetting

This day tour takes you snorkeling at two of the most spectacular locations in Galapagos where you can see a variety of species, including sharks, sea turtles, rays, sea lions and marine iguanas. You'll also get the chance to disembark the boat at La Fé Bay or Las Palmitas Bay for a discovery walk through mangroves and past prickly pair cactus and candelabra cactus to see Darwin finches, mockingbirds, pelicans, lava herons and blue-footed boobies.

Enjoy wonderful snorkeling in Santa Fe Island! During this snorkelling tour you will be able to see many animals such as sea lions, sharks, turtles and more! We will visit the Santa Fe Cliff, the Santa Fe Bay where you will have lunch in the calm waters overlooking the bay whilst watching the sea lions in the distance. After lunch, there will be one last point in Playa Escondida where you have the option to disembark to spend time on the beach or to continue snorkelling. Part of the tour time is also allocated to fishing, however this depends on weather conditions on the day.

This experience combines 50% cycling and 50% hiking to actively explore the Santa Cruz Highlands. The normal bike option follows a mostly descent route, quiet and suitable for most travelers. For those looking for a more dynamic experience, the e-bike allows you to travel sectors with steeper slopes in greater comfort. We will start at Parque San Francisco de Puerto Ayora, where we will pick up bikes and helmets before moving to Los Guayabillos. During the tour we will cross rural landscapes, agricultural areas, fruit trees and coffee plantations of the Galapagos. Upon arrival at Galapagos Frontier we will continue with a guided hike through the nature reserve to observe giant turtles in their natural habitat and explore impressive lava tunnels formed by ancient volcanic eruptions. Ideal for those looking to combine adventure, nature and physical activity.

Discover the natural beauty of the Galapagos Islands during this 5-day tour. Visit three islands to hike, snorkel, and observe wildlife including tortoises, sea lions, and rays. Enjoy included breakfasts and lunches, and stay in budget accommodations on Santa Cruz Island. The tour features moderate activity levels with naturalist guides leading hikes and boat rides to diverse locations like Flamingo Lagoon and Las Tintoreras.

Taking a Bay Tour on Santa Cruz Island is not just another excursion; it is the perfect introduction to the Galapagos environment, it is the most efficient and exciting way to see incredible biodiversity. Here are the reasons why you should join this adventure: 1. On a half-day tour, cross off your list of the protagonists of the archipelago: Sea lions: You will see them resting in the Loberia. Dryer sharks : you will see these whitetip sharks resting in crystal clear water crevices. Marine Iguanas : Huge colonies sunbathing on volcanic rocks. Blue-footed boobies : It is very common to see them watching from the cliffs. 2. Unreal geological landscapes The tour takes you to Las Grietas, one of the most impressive formations on the island. It is a geological fracture of volcanic rocks where fresh water mixes with salt water. Swimming there, among giant basalt walls, is an almost spiritual experience. .

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.

Unlike many Galapagos tours that only visit one site or focus exclusively on wildlife viewing, this experience combines three unique elements into one tour: underground exploration, spotting giant turtles in the wild and tasting local artisan coffee. You’ll explore the breathtaking lava tunnels, underground volcanic formations that few visitors have the opportunity to travel. Then, you will walk among giant turtles in their natural habitat, without cages or closed centers, and finally you will enjoy a tasting of 100% Galapagueño coffee, grown in the volcanic lands of the upper part of the island. This experience is distinguished by offering an authentic, educational and multisensory approach, ideal for those looking for more than a tourist excursion: a real connection with the geological history, wildlife and agricultural culture of the Galapagos.

Discover Pinzon Island's vibrant birds, reptiles, and marine life on a day tour from Santa Cruz. This excursion is perfect for travelers interested in native wildlife both above and below the water. On the island, enjoy a walking tour through the candelabra cactus forest. Wildlife sightings may include blue-footed boobies, frigates, and marine iguanas. Later, snorkel with sea lions, manta rays, sea turtles, and more in clear waters.

Discover the wonders of San Cristobal Island stress-free on a full-day small-group tour. This comprehensive excursion seamlessly blends land and water exploration, offering the best of the island’s landscapes, species, and sites. Between a private nature walk and group snorkel opportunities, you enjoy up-close views of sea lions, marine birds, iguanas, sea turtles, sharks, and more. Top-notch snorkel gear and wetsuits are provided for additional convenience.

Discover the best of Isla Isabela on a 3-day adventure departing from Santa Cruz, with the convenience of having shipping and the main experiences organized in one program. Explore unique volcanic landscapes, observe the incredible wildlife of the Galapagos and enjoy iconic activities such as Sulphur Mines, Tintoreras and Cabo Rosa Tunnels. THE local team in Isabela coordinates every stage of the experience so you can make the most of your visit and enjoy one of the most spectacular destinations in the Galapagos.

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.

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.

This is the unique transportation to go from Hotels in Puerto Ayora to Baltra Airport. First we pick up you in your Hotel to go to Baltra airport, after this we will take the Canal de Itabaca to take the barcaza then we can go Baltra Airport

Explore one of the Galapagos Islands’ best dive sites on a scuba tour to Gordon Rocks. After a scenic boat ride from Puerto Ayora to the northeast side of Santa Cruz, the underwater adventure begins. Your guide is on hand at all times, so you’re free to relax and take in the vibrant subterranean world. Marine life sightings may include hammerhead sharks, barracudas, and eagle rays.

Get up close and personal with marine iguanas, sea lions, and hawks on a day trip to Santa Fe Island from Santa Cruz. Included hotel pickup ensures a smooth start. Once aboard the yacht, you’ll set off for Santa Fe Island. In addition to wildlife sightings, you’ll have time to enjoy Playa Escondida. The day tour also includes a filling lunch with a vegetarian option available.

Embark on a thrilling day tour to Isabela Island and discover its diverse natural wonders. Begin at the Tintorera Islet, home to various marine life, including marine iguanas, sharks, and penguins. Later, using provided snorkel gear, observe the island’s underwater world up close. You’ll also visit the island’s wetlands, a habitat for flamingos, and the Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre. This excursion promises an adventurous and educational experience that’s fun for everyone.

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 economical way to explore the Galapagos Islands, on a land-based tour. Activities in this program include swimming, snorkeling, with marine animals, hiking, bird watching, and walking among giant Galapagos tortoises.

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.