Top Santa Cruz How to Get Around

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.

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.

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.

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.

Santa Cruz may not be the largest island in the Galapagos, but this petite island still boasts plenty to explore. See its famous beaches, rock formations, and maybe even some of its native wild animals in their natural habitat on this tour, which is limited to a small group of 10 people or fewer and includes hotel pickup.

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.

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.

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. .

Explore the vibrant underwater world of Santa Fe Island on a full-day snorkeling adventure. This tour includes snorkeling at two exceptional sites where you can encounter sea lions, sea turtles, reef sharks, and colorful tropical fish. After snorkeling, land on the pristine Playa Escondida on Santa Cruz Island to unwind and soak in the natural beauty. Enjoy a delicious box lunch served aboard the boat while surrounded by stunning landscapes. This tour is perfect for nature lovers and marine enthusiasts looking to discover the unique biodiversity of the Galapagos.

Embark on a maritime journey on a small-group day tour to South Plaza Island and Punta Carrion. This wildlife-packed excursion is perfect for adventurous travelers who want to maximize their vacation time. After a yacht ride from Puerto Ayora, take a guided walk to discover terrestrial iguanas, hybrid iguanas, sea lions, and more. Next, snorkel the clear waters at Punta Carrion, where you may encounter whitefin sharks, sea turtles, and manta rays.

Discover the natural beauty of the upper part of Santa Cruz with a fascinating visit to the Los Gemelos craters. Explore the stunning lava tunnels that tell the island’s volcanic history and enjoy a close encounter with the majestic giant turtles in their natural habitat at Rancho Primicias. An ideal tour for nature and adventure lovers, offering a glimpse into the unique biodiversity of the Galapagos. - Visit to the Los Gemelos craters in Santa Cruz - Exploring the fascinating lava tunnels - Encounter with giant turtles at Rancho Primicias - Ideal for nature and adventure lovers

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.

Explore North Seymour Island, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. This full-day land tour invites you to hike along a 2-kilometer trail, spotting iconic species like blue-footed boobies and magnificent frigatebirds. Enjoy snorkeling amidst vibrant marine life while taking in the stunning landscapes. Ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers, the tour includes bilingual professional guides, transportation from your hotel, and all necessary snorkeling gear, along with a box lunch to keep you energized throughout the day. - Discover diverse wildlife including sea lions and marine iguanas - Moderate hiking on rocky trails with a total distance of 2 miles - Snorkeling equipment provided for an underwater adventure - Tour duration is approximately 5 to 7 hours, with hotel pick-up and drop-off included

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.

Discover the rich Galapagos Islands fauna that lives above ground and underwater on a small-group day tour to Playa la Fe and Pinzon Island. This immersive tour includes both land tours and snorkeling opportunities to ensure you get a comprehensive, stress-free wilderness experience. During a hike on Pinzon Island, keep your eyes peeled for marine iguanas, turtles, and Galapagos hawks. Underwater wildlife sightings may include white-tip sharks, eagle rays, and sea lions.

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.

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.

Marvel at the beauty of the Galapagos’ Central Islands aboard our own Sea Lion Yacht – one of only 12 yachts in the Galapagos that offers day tours to the Galapagos National Park. You’ll embark on a Galapagos Day Tour like no other! South Plaza is a small island full of fascinating wildlife, both along its shore and along its dramatic, wind-swept cliffs: sea lions, land iguanas, swallow-tailed gulls, Opuntia cacti and vegetation that changes colors according to the season. This tour is offered on: Wednesday: Punta Carrión / South Plaza Island Friday: South Plaza / Punta Carrión A destination expert will contact you soon to go over details and request sensitive information. Note: Day Tours are subject to change due to weather conditions, logistical reasons and Galapagos National Park Regulations.

Explore one of the most wildlife-rich islands in the Galapagos aboard a comfortable and well-equipped yacht designed to offer a smooth and relaxing sailing. Enjoy delicious meals on board, the attention of a friendly and experienced crew, and the guidance of a certified naturalist who will bring the landscape and its fascinating creatures to life. Before the tour, you will be given a detailed briefing so that you are fully prepared for the day. During the excursion, you can discover the fascinating underwater world of the archipelago by practicing snorkeling, using an exclusive high-end equipment of renowned brands such as Cressi and Scubapro. This tour combines unforgettable wildlife encounters – such as blue-footed boobies, frigates, yellow terrestrial iguanas, sea lions and marine species – with comfort, security and expert guidance, making it the ideal choice for those who want to experience the best of the Galapagos.

Get up close to iconic Galapagos Islands wildlife, including marine iguanas and masked boobies, on a full day tour to South Plaza Island from Santa Cruz. There’s no need to rush to a meeting point, as complimentary hotel pickup is provided. After a scenic yacht ride from Itabaca Canal, swim and snorkel with white tip sharks and sea turtles at Punta Carrion. Book the excursion in advance to maximize your limited time on the islands.

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.

Discover even more Galapagos species on a full-day tour to North Seymour Island. Board your vessel in Santa Cruz and make your way to the island where you can observe red-breasted frigates, land iguanas, and blue-footed boobies. Then, head to Las Bachas beach for free time to relax and snorkel, observing even more species like sea lions, sea turtles, and even flamingos.

Marvel at the beauty of the Galapagos’ Central Islands aboard our own Sea Lion Yacht – one of only 12 yachts in the Galapagos that offers day tours to the Galapagos National Park in the company of certified Naturalist Guides. Operations are handled by a fully seasoned captain. You’ll embark on a Galapagos Day Tour like no other! Santa Fe offers one of the more beautiful and sheltered coves in the islands. Its turquoise lagoon is protected by a peninsula of tiny islets that form an ideal anchorage spot. Studies suggest that the island of Santa Fe is, in fact, one of the oldest in the entire archipelago. Given the island is the result of uplift from the ocean floor, you can actually see lava formations (that were previously underwater) sitting on its surface. A destination expert will contact you soon to go over details and request sensitive information. Note: Day Tours are subject to change due to weather conditions, logistical reasons and Galapagos National Park Regulations.