Santa Cruz, Ecuador
Tours

Our most recommended things to do in Santa Cruz, Ecuador

Bartolome Day Tour

Bartolome Day Tour

Description Bartolome will welcome our guests to the incredible natural wealth of teeming Galapagos wildlife where they will be amazed with the dramatic views of the luscious landscape. It is a fantastic spot to take personal and group pictures and it is a jewel-toned setting for charismatic penguins, skittering crabs and marine iguanas. At the sandy cove the adventurers will start to snorkel with the speedy Galapagos penguins. Also, hundreds of colorful reef fish, sea turtles and rays are surrounding the island. At the shade of the Pinnacle Rock our excursionist will have the best place to snorkel and to take photograph of the endemic penguins and the rock looks out across pale beaches and blue-green water, their colors offset by the coal-black lava flow at Sullivan Bay. A hot lunch and refreshments are provided on the boat. At the end of the journey the boat will come back to Santa Cruz, after that a bus will take you to the most comfortable and environmentally friendly lodge. It is recommended to wear a wetsuit in order to neutralize the sea temperature, because it falls below 20ºC from June to November and it is up to 27ºC from December to May. Departure: 6:45 am bus pick up at the Puerto Ayora Pier Returning time: approximately at 5:00 pm and it will drop you off at Puerto Ayora Pier Journey Time: 40 minutes ride by bus until Itabaca Channel then comfortable yacht will travel around 2 hours to Bartolome Island. Difficulty Level: Intermediate Highlight activity: walking and snorkeling Transportation: shared bus and yacht Important: A day before to the tour all passengers must be at 6:00 pm in the Galapagos Path for wetsuit fitting.

From Puerto Ayora: Santa Fe Island Snorkeling Day Tour

From Puerto Ayora: Santa Fe Island Snorkeling Day Tour

Embark on an unforgettable boat trip to the enchanting Santa Fe Island, a heaven for snorkeling enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. After a brief 45-55 minute navigation from Puerto Ayora (it is the island that is closes to Santa Cruz), you'll be greeted by the island's stunningly beautiful landscape, with crystal-clear, turquoise waters in contrast to the nearby white sand beach and the ancient cactus on the dark lava rocks - also the perfect place to spot some blue-footed boobies, pelicans and if very lucky, maybe even the Galapagos hawk - a real photographer's paradise! This bay offers a unique and abundant marine ecosystem, and even before jumping into the water, you might spot schools of tropical fish, sea lions, sea turtles, schools of rays and sharks swimming around the boat as this is one of the places with the clearest water in all of Galapagos. At the same time, this tour is perfect for snorkel beginners, children or insecure swimmers, as the first snorkel part takes place in this proteced, shallow and very calm bay. Post-snorkeling, a freshly prepared lunch (either grilled fish/chicken or ceviche) awaits you, followed by another short navigation and a visit to the remote Hidden Beach. Here, you can unwind, swim, or join the exploration walk together with your naturalist guide to spot some of the biggest marine iguanas, different species of mangroves as well as pelicans, finches and if lucky, some sea turtles in the second bay. On the way back to Puerto Ayora (or in between, the order of the activities might change depending on the conditions), you can give it a try with some fishing, as all our boats have a special fishing license. The most common catch is the yellowfin tuna or the wahoo - if fishing takes place before lunch, you might even get fresh sashimi or the freshest ceviche you ever had! ;-) Please note that this is not a fishing trip though, the fishing activity only takes place if there is someone interested in it and it will not be more than 15-30 minutes.

Day Trip to Isabela Island and Tintoreras in Galápagos

Day Trip to Isabela Island and Tintoreras in Galápagos

We begin the tour at 06H10 AM at the port of Puerto Ayora to board the ferry that will take us to Isabela. (Transfer in boat has a duration of 2 hours approximately until arrive to Isabela) We start the activity at 09:00 from Isabela Island, from the bay we go by means of a boat to a group of islets called Tintoreras. Well known for being the habitat of penguins and white tip sharks! Other animals that we can observe while we surround the islets are: rays, sea turtles, bay sharks, colorful fish, etc. Tintorera sharks. Along a channel with fences on one of its edges, we can find a large number of individuals of the species. Likewise, we enjoyed a snorkeling time near the site. At the end of our activity in the complex, we headed to the port to enjoy lunch. Our next stop is the flamingo lagoon. We have time to take pictures. To finish, we headed to the Arnaldo Tupiza Breeding Center. We can see the turtles in the conservation area. We finish the tour at 14:00 p.m. then we have to come back to Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz - 2 Hours of Ferry

Explore the Natural Wonders of Isabela and Tintoreras Islet

Explore the Natural Wonders of Isabela and Tintoreras Islet

Embark on an unforgettable adventure to Isabela Island, one of the most impressive destinations in the Galapagos Islands. This full-day tour includes a ferry ride from Puerto Ayora and takes you to explore Tintoreras Islet, famous for its abundant wildlife and unique landscapes. The tour begins at 7:00 am from the Puerto Ayora dock on Santa Cruz Island, with a ferry ride of approximately 2 hours to Puerto Villamil on Isabela. During the navigation, enjoy spectacular views of the ocean and surrounding islands. Upon arrival, you will visit the Arnaldo Tupiza Breeding Center, where you will learn about the Galapagos National Park's conservation efforts to protect giant tortoises and see both juvenile and adult tortoises. Next, you will explore the Isabela wetlands, home to one of the most extensive mangrove areas in the Galapagos, where you can observe pink flamingos, ducks and other birds while enjoying the beautiful scenery. The highlight of the tour is a visit to Tintoreras Islet, known for the white tip sharks, also called blue sharks, resting in a crevice of crystal clear water. In addition, you will see marine iguanas, sea lions, penguins and blue-footed boobies. The visit includes a snorkeling session on a small beach, where you can discover the rich marine life. The ferry back to Santa Cruz departs at 3:00 pm, arriving in Puerto Ayora around 5:00 pm. The tour includes round trip ferry from Santa Cruz to Isabela, entrance fee to Isabela and water taxi, certified tour guide (English-Spanish), dock use tax, lunch, boat for the visit to Tintoreras Islet, long wetsuit and snorkeling gear. Soft drinks, towels and tips are not included. It is recommended to bring comfortable walking clothes, swimsuit, biodegradable sunscreen, and a camera to capture the breathtaking scenery, and take motion sickness pills 30 minutes before boarding, as the ferry ride can be bumpy. Enjoy a unique experience exploring the natural diversity of Isabela and Tintoreras Islet with Enchanted Islands. Reserve your place today and live an unforgettable adventure in the Galapagos Islands!

Galapagos: Route by bicycle, Tortoise Bike Rute

Galapagos: Route by bicycle, Tortoise Bike Rute

We will meet at the assigned place to transport us by vehicle to a small community called Santa Rosa, then we will begin our bicycle adventure. The next stop is at the private El Chato ranch, a unique place on earth, where you can see giant tortoises in their natural habitat. The ranch has a large number of giant tortoises, which can be seen walking through the fields or sunbathing. This excursion includes non-traditional trail riding, allowing travelers to explore the natural beauty of the Galapagos in a unique way. The trails we ride are usually less crowded than the traditional trails, and offer the opportunity to see wildlife in their natural habitat. Finally, we will visit a craft workshop, where travelers can learn about the culture and art of the Galapagos. In the workshop, travelers will be able to see how typical Galapagos artisan products are made.

The most photographed island of the Archipelago: Bartolome Island & Sullivan Bay

The most photographed island of the Archipelago: Bartolome Island & Sullivan Bay

Discover the Magic of Bartolome Island: Day Trip with Hiking and Snorkeling Embark on an unforgettable adventure to Bartolome Island, starting with a scenic boat ride from Puerto Ayora. Upon arrival, you will ascend a trail to the top of the island, where you will be rewarded with spectacular panoramic views of the iconic Pinnacle Rock and volcanic landscapes. After the hike, dive into the crystal clear waters of Sullivan Bay for a unique snorkeling experience, swimming alongside colorful fish, sea turtles and playful sea lions. This tour combines the best of hiking and snorkeling in the incomparable natural environment of the Galapagos Islands. Includes: Round-trip boat transportation from Puerto Ayora. Certified naturalist tour guide Snorkel equipment (mask, snorkel and fins) Lunch and snacks on board Entrance fees to the national parks What to bring: Comfortable clothes and footwear suitable for hiking Bathing suit and towel Sunscreen and hat Camera Duration: Approximately 8 hours Book your adventure today and discover the unparalleled beauty of Bartolome Island with Enchanted Islands - explore, enjoy and create unforgettable memories!

Full Day Pinzon Island, Finishing in la Fe with Snorkeling

Full Day Pinzon Island, Finishing in la Fe with Snorkeling

The guide will pick you up in the lobby of the hotel, (Hotel pick up inside the urban perimeter of Puerto Ayora) or we can give you a good meeting point to join with us. We headed to the passenger boarding area that is located in the port of Santa Cruz and then board a boat that will take us to a point known as Playa la Fe, which we hike around trails to watch iguanas. marine and then, if the currents are suitable, a snorkeling in its bay. Among the animals that we can find there are two types of bay sharks such as: white tip shark and black tip shark. We board the boat and travel to Pinzón Island in a journey of approximately an hour and a half. On site we can do a snorkeling time or two depending on the situation. At the previous point of visit, we have lunch on board between snorkeling times in the area. The panorama of the place offers us a beautiful landscape and we can recognize the area as the home of sea lions, marine iguanas, turtles, eels, eagle rays and bay sharks (white tip). Penguins may be warned in the area. Arrival at port is at 4:00 p.m. End of our service, the boat drop off you in the dock, the you have to go to your hotel by yourself

Giant Tortoises, Lava Tunnels, & Tortuga Bay Beach Day Tour

Giant Tortoises, Lava Tunnels, & Tortuga Bay Beach Day Tour

We will pick you up from your hotel to the Santa Cruz Highlands, which is probably the most visited area in the Galapagos. This area concentrates vast extensions of forests of Scalesia, Miconia, and giant tortoises. This is a great place to observe these iconic animals in their natural habitat. After lunch at this local farm, we will visit the twin craters of the Galapagos, it is a rewarding visit for nature-loving tourists. The lush green landscape of the highlands stands in stark contrast to the more arid coastlines of the lowlands, providing a very different Galapagos experience. Lookouts over the crater sinkholes show off the stunning scenery, and there are plenty of interesting birds too. Later we will move to Tortuga Bay, which is a white sand beach located on the south coast of the island of Santa Cruz. Enjoy a 2-hour walk (round trip) to this beautiful beach that is perfectly preserved and with the presence of animals such as iguanas and beach crabs. You have the opportunity to swim in the mangrove swamp that is separated from the beach.

Pinzón Island: Snorkel, Fish, and Relax in Paradise

Pinzón Island: Snorkel, Fish, and Relax in Paradise

Embark on an exciting day exploring Pinzón Island! Start your adventure at 8:00 AM at Hotel Ninfa, then enjoy a scenic 2-hour boat ride to Pinzón Island. Upon arrival at 10:30 AM, dive into the crystal-clear waters of Bahía Pingüino for your first snorkeling session, where you'll encounter vibrant marine life such as sea turtles, rays, and colorful fish. After snorkeling, try your hand at fishing as we cast a line into the pristine waters. At noon, gear up for a second snorkeling session at Playa Eden, discovering more of Pinzón's underwater wonders. At 1:00 PM, savor a delicious onboard lunch, surrounded by stunning island views. After lunch, visit the beautiful Playa Las Palmitas, where you can relax on the beach and soak in the tranquil atmosphere. Finally, begin the return journey to Santa Cruz, reflecting on the day's adventures. Arrive back at Puerto Ayora by 5:00 PM, completing an unforgettable day filled with snorkeling, fishing, wildlife observation, and relaxation.

From Santa Cruz: Galapagos, Excursion to Tortuga & Tour

From Santa Cruz: Galapagos, Excursion to Tortuga & Tour

This full-day yacht tour from Santa Cruz takes you on a discovery of the beautiful Galapagos Islands. In the morning you will walk approximately 40 minutes to Tortuga Bay Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches of the islands where you can enjoy swimming and spending some time on the beach. After lunch you tour around the bay on board the yacht. You will then visit La Lobería, a beach which owes its name to the presence of many sea lions. Here you will be able to swim or snorkel. Next you will head to Canal del Amor (Channel of Love). At the end of this channel you can observe reef sharks from the viewpoint. From here you will continue on with a short walk to see the marine iguanas in their natural habitat at Playa de los Perros before visiting Punta Estrada.

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