Top Santa Cruz Wildlife Watching

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.

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.

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.

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.

As part of this off the beaten path adventure, besides the incredible flora and fauna that Floreana has to offer, you’ll also explore fascinating historical and archaeological sites. Visit the legendary Pirates’ Cave and Asilo de la Paz, where history comes alive through captivating tales of the past (you might want to watch the movies "Galapagos Affair" or "When Satan came to Eden" before the trip). Discover the engaging Inca Face sculpture on Floreana Island, a unique archaeological feature that adds a sense of mystery and wonder to your journey. To ensure your comfort, we provide top-quality snorkeling gear and wetsuits (from trusted brands like Cressi/Scubapro and O'Neill). This tour is conducted aboard a well-maintained and comfortable speedboat, guided by an experienced and knowledgeable naturalist guide. You’ll also enjoy a freshly prepared, delicious traditional Ecuadorian meal as part of this unforgettable experience in the best restaurant of Floreana.

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.