AM Arrival to Baltra Airport + Highlands visit (Giant Tortoises + Lava Tunnels)
The Highlands of Santa Cruz offer a verdant contrast to the beaches and arid lowlands that can be found elsewhere on the island. Embark on a guided tour with one of our knowledgeable Naturalist Guides to discover the highlights of the ‘Parte Alta’.
Next, immerse yourself in the enchanting natural habitat of the celebrated Giant Galapagos Tortoise at the Moreno family farm, Las Primicias. Witness these magnificent creatures as they roam freely, and marvel at their grandeur up close.
Additionally, delve into the depths of a cavernous underground Lava Tunnel, an extraordinary geological wonder that showcases the unique features of our volcanic islands. This fascinating excursion will leave you in awe of the forces that shape our natural world.
As you make your way to Puerto Ayora, take the opportunity to venture along the captivating “backroads” of Santa Cruz, unveiling hidden treasures and experiencing the charm of the island beyond its well-known attractions.
PM Charles Darwin Foundation and Giant Turtle Breeding Center
A visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station is an opportunity to learn about Galapagos conservation in action. Today the principal attraction for visitors to the Charles Darwin Research Station are the baby tortoises that they raise in captivity. You can also see giant tortoises & land iguanas, as well as checking out interesting exhibits.
The main attraction at the Charles Darwin station is the Fausto Llerena Breeding Center. Here the stars of the show are the giant tortoises, reared in captivity until they reach an age where they can be introduced into the wild. Adult tortoises from various subspecies roam in large corrals.
Santa Cruz:
Full Day Tour:
The Bartolome Island day tour begins early in the morning to take advantage of the best hours of light. We will travel from Puerto Ayora by van or bus to the Itabaca channel, where our boat will be waiting for us to sail to Bartolome Island.
Once in Bartolome Island, we will disembark for a short walk that will allow us to reach the island’s natural viewpoint, with a height of 115 meters above sea level. From here we can enjoy a 360-degree view, which includes views of the nearby islands and the famous Pinnacle Rock. Besides spectacular views, Bartolome Island has an intriguing geological past. The island’s exact age hasn’t been able to be determined, but based on its characteristics; it is considered one of the youngest islands in this area. From the viewpoint, it is also possible to appreciate other interesting formations, such as the parasitic cones, formed by prior lava eruptions.
This Bartolome Island day tour includes, besides the viewpoint, another visit to the nearby beaches: the north beach, where we will be able to enjoy the sea; the south beach, where we will be able to go on a walk to observe rays and blue sharks; however, swimming or snorkeling is not allowed in this beach because it is nesting site for sea turtles.
To finish the day, we will visit Sullivan bay, which is located next to Bartolome Island. This bay features an interesting recently formed lava field. We will snorkel in the bay’s calm waters. After this visit, we will return to Puerto Ayora.
Isabela:
AM Early transfer to Isabela + Muro de las Lagrimas Tour
Take a scenic coastal ride through the wetlands and estuaries of Isabela to the site of the Mural de las Lagrimas (Wall of Tears) to learn about some of the human history of the Galapagos.
This area is full of giant tortoises, flamingos, and other birds. This tour can also be done by bicycle.
PM Tintoreras Tour (snorkeling) + Flamingos ponds
Once the group is all together, you will try on the equipment, receive the first basic safety notions and get on the boat to the Tintoreras.
In just 10-20 minutes you will have reached the islet Tintoreras. Upon arrival you will see that a lava crevice with a small lagoon of turquoise water inside is clearly evident. When the water is calm, whitetip sharks, also known as “tintoreras”, usually come here to rest. They are the ones that give name to this rocky islet.
On the vertical walls of the crevice and in the lagoon you will also see baby marine iguanas warming their bodies in the sun.
Upon arrival at the islet you will also see sea lions, blue-footed boobies, crabs, sea turtles, pelicans and the peculiar Galapagos penguins.
An exalted display of wildlife that will take your breath away. Following the guide, you will reach a small cove inside the islet where you will snorkel. You will dive among a great variety of fish, starfish, sea urchins, manta rays, blue sharks and sea lions.
Isabela:
AM Water Tunnels Tour (excursion + snorkeling)
You will arrive at the first stop of the Los Tuneles Tour Isabela Island: Roca Union.
You will take an easy walk for about 45 minutes where you can enjoy the sighting of blue-footed boobies. If you don’t know the history of this incredible species, don’t hesitate to ask your guide that day.
After the hike, you will board the boat again to sail to El Finado, where you will do your first snorkeling session in Isabela Galapagos Island.
Get ready to dive among sea lions, seahorses, blue sharks and manta rays – what a blast!
You will board the boat once again, and head to Los Túneles, the highlight of this tour. In these unique formations on Isabela Island you will enjoy a second snorkeling session and a short guided walk.
PM Flamingos ponds and free afternoon
Santa Cruz:
AM Early transfer to Santa Cruz – Tortuga Bay (excursion + snorkeling)
Tortuga Bay beach is renowned for its vast and unspoiled coastline, gently sloping into the glistening waters of the Pacific Ocean. It offers an ideal setting for those looking to catch some waves and try their hand at surfing, or simply unwind and bask in the sun alongside the fascinating Marine Iguanas.
On this occasion you will have the opportunity to snorkel in this place where you can observe and enjoy marine species.
PM Free afternoon
AM Early visit to Los Gemelos Twin Crater and transfer out to airport
The magnificent twin craters are located in Santa Cruz highlands, This place is surrounded by forests of endemic Scalesia.
PM Return to Ecuador Mainland
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