Tours & tickets

Charles Darwin Research Station

Embark on an enlightening journey to the Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz Island, where conservation meets science. This tour offers a unique opportunity to delve into the heart of efforts aimed at preserving the Galapagos' iconic species, including the majestic giant tortoises. As you explore the station, you'll gain insights into ongoing scientific projects and initiatives that are crucial for maintaining the islands' delicate ecosystem. The tour begins with a convenient pick-up from your hotel, setting the stage for an educational adventure. At the station, you'll walk along trails surrounded by endemic flora, providing a firsthand look at the natural beauty that makes the Galapagos so special. Learn from experts about the challenges and successes in conservation, and see how science is actively shaping the future of these unique islands. After a fulfilling exploration, the tour concludes at the station, allowing you to continue your Galapagos adventure at your own pace. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or a curious traveler, this visit promises to inspire and educate, leaving you with a deeper appreciation for the wonders of the Galapagos.

This four-day itinerary in the Galapagos Islands begins with arrival in Baltra and a transfer to Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island. Passengers visit the Charles Darwin Research Station, where they observe land tortoises and local wildlife. The second day includes an excursion to Tortuga Bay beach, famous for its white sand and endemic fauna such as sea turtles and iguanas. Afterwards, you will visit the "Upper Part" of Santa Cruz, where you will find the Twin Craters and observe giant tortoises in their natural habitat, followed by a visit to lava tunnels. The third day includes a tour to Playa de los Alemanes, the salt mines and crevices, a rock formation with a natural pool where travelers can snorkel and observe colorful fish. Time is also spent on the beach swimming and sunbathing. The afternoon is free to explore the village and shop for souvenirs. On the last day transfer to Baltra airport for departure. This itinerary offers a combination of cultural activities, exploration of the endemic fauna and flora, and free time to enjoy the beaches and local people.

Day 1: Transfer In – Baltra – Charles Darwin Research Station Upon arrival at Baltra Airport, you will be welcomed and transferred to Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island. In the afternoon, we will begin our visit with a stop at the Fishermen's Dock, where you can observe marine iguanas, sea lions, pelicans, and frigate birds in their natural habitat. We will then continue to the Charles Darwin Research Station. During the journey, you will walk through vegetation and spot endemic birds. At the station, you will learn about conservation efforts for giant tortoises, from the smallest ones to the majestic 155-year-old individuals. Return to the hotel. Day 2: Tortuga Bay Beach – Highlands – Lava Tubes – Twin Craters After breakfast, we will visit Tortuga Bay Beach, famous for its white sand and unique landscapes. You can enjoy a refreshing swim while observing marine iguanas, turtles, and endemic birds. Then, we will return to the hotel. In the afternoon, we will head to the Highlands of the island to explore the Twin Craters, spectacular volcanic formations surrounded by lush vegetation. Next, we will visit a ranch where you can see giant tortoises in their natural habitat. The experience will culminate with a visit to the lava tubes, where the guide will explain their origin and the reproduction process of giant tortoises. Return to the hotel. Day 3: German Beach – Salt Mines – The Cracks After breakfast, we will head to the dock to take a water taxi to our first destination: German Beach. There, you can relax, swim, and observe endemic birds. Then, we will walk to the Salt Mines, where you will learn about their history and formation. Finally, we will arrive at The Cracks, a natural pool surrounded by volcanic rocks where you can snorkel and admire colorful fish. In the afternoon, you will have free time to explore Puerto Ayora, shop for souvenirs, or simply relax. Overnight stay. Day 4: Transfer Out – Baltra Enjoy your last breakfast in Galápagos before checking out of the hotel. Then, transfer to Baltra Airport for your return flight. End of services.

Pick up from your hotel. You will take a small road 2,500 meters long up to the access to Tortuga Bay. Enjoy a 2-hours hike (both ways) up to this beautiful beach which is perfectly preserved, and with the presence of wild animals such as iguanas, beach crabs. Only swim in the mangrove that is separated from the beach, kayak on the beach (optional) Tortuga Bay is a white sand beach located on the south coast of the island of Santa Cruz. After lunch, you will visit the Charles Darwin Research Station where you will have the opportunity to learn about Galapagos conservation in action. Over 200 scientists and volunteers are involved with research and conservation efforts here. Return to your hotel.

Day 1: Transfer in – Baltra – Charles Darwin Research Station Arrival at the Galápagos airport. Transfer to Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island, arrival, and accommodation at the hotel. Your first stop is the Charles Darwin Research Station. Before you begin the walk, your guide will explain the location of the hotel. As you start the walk, pass by the fishermen's dock, where you can see marine iguanas, sea lions, pelicans, and frigatebirds. Continue your journey to the Charles Darwin Station, where you can observe endemic birds and vegetation and see tortoises of all ages, from the smallest to those as old as 155 years. Return to the hotel. Day 2: Tortuga Bay – Highlands – Lava Tunnels – Twin Craters Visit the beautiful Tortuga Bay Beach, famous for its landscape, with a stunning white-sand beach where you can swim and observe endemic birds. Here, you can see sea turtles and marine iguanas. Return to the hotel. In the afternoon, head to the Highlands of Santa Cruz to visit the Twin Craters, which are amazing volcanic formations surrounded by lush endemic vegetation. Then, visit the ranch, where you can observe giant tortoises in their natural habitat. After a short and easy walk, visit the lava tunnels, where your guide will talk about the reproduction of giant tortoises and the origin of the island's internal tunnels. Return to the hotel. Day 3: Playa de Alemanes – Salt Mines – The Cracks After breakfast, head to the dock to begin your tour, taking a water taxi to cross over. Once you arrive, the guide will explain the history of the place. After the explanation, begin a 10-minute walk to our second stop, the salt mines, where you can learn about the area. Afterward, head to your third stop, The Cracks, a natural pool formed by rocks where we will snorkel and observe colorful fish. After finishing, continue to your fourth stop, Playa de Alemanes, where you can swim, sunbathe, and also observe the endemic birds of the area. In the afternoon, enjoy free time to explore the town and shop for last-minute souvenirs. Day 4: Playa El Garrapatero Enjoy breakfast then visit the beautiful Garrapatero Beach, a pristine beach where you can enjoy the turquoise water. Behind the beach is a lagoon where black-necked stilts, Galápagos finches, and migratory birds can be found. Return to the hotel. In the afternoon, enjoy the hotel facilities. Day 5: Transfer Out – Baltra After breakfast, your journey ends, and you will have your international departures. Take your memories and photos with you and leave a piece of your heart, as you will soon want to return to Ecuador to experience more of this enchanted land.

Experience the incredible wildlife diversity of the Galápagos islands with a thrilling six-day excursion to San Cristobal & Santa Cruz Day 01: San Cristóbal – Carola Beach – Tijeretas /(L) Welcome to Galapagos Islands! Arrive to San Cristobal’s airport, your guide picks you up and take you to the hotel. You will visit the Interpretation Center, where the guide will talk to you about the formation, colonization, and actual situation of the islands. Frigate bird hill, a viewpoint from which you have a beautiful view over the island. Snorkel the shallow waters of Tijeretas Bay or Carola beach (your guide will take you to the best spot), where you can see sea lions, various tropical fishes, and turtles. Your small hike will finish at Carola beach. Overnight in San Cristobal. Day 02: Kicker Rock/ / (B, BL) Kicker Rock - snorkel. You will visit the famous Kicker Rock (Leon Dormido), a volcanic formation amid the ocean. There you will be able to snorkel with sharks, rays, turtles, and if you are lucky also with hammerhead sharks! In the afternoon you will be back at the port. Overnight in San Cristobal. Day 03: Santa Cruz – El Chato / (B, L) Breakfast in the hotel. At 6:30 pick you up and take you to the harbor 7:00 speedboat to Santa Cruz (approx. 2-hour ride). A local guide will receive you at the harbor. Your guide drives up to the ranch in the highlands to see giant tortoises in their native environment! Overnight in Santa Cruz. Day 04: Full day navigable tour / (B, BL) Breakfast at the hotel. Depending on the dates and/or navigable site available, pick-up from the hotel will be early in the morning (6-or 7:00 am) to take you to the small vessel at the embarkation point in Puerto Ayora for a unique experience with Galapagos wildlife and endemic vegetation. The destination can be either Santa Fe, South Plazas, North Seymour, Pinzon, or Floreana. The activities will include hiking, snorkeling, swimming, and breathtaking sightseeing. Return to the hotel in Santa Cruz where you can relax. Overnight in Santa Cruz. Day 05: Tortuga Bay – Charles Darwin / (B, L) Pick up from your hotel. You will take a small road 2,500 meters long up to the access to Tortuga Bay. Enjoy a 2-hours hike (both ways) up to this beautiful beach which is perfectly preserved, and with the presence of wild animals such as iguanas, beach crabs. Tortuga Bay is a white sand beach located on the south coast of the island of Santa Cruz. After lunch, you will visit the Charles Darwin Research Station where you will have the opportunity to learn about Galapagos conservation in action. Over 200 scientists and volunteers are involved with research and conservation efforts here. Return to your hotel. Overnight in Santa Cruz. Day 06: Transfer out to the airport in Baltra / (B) Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to the airport to board the flight to Quito or Guayaquil. Arrival and connection with the international flight.