Santa Cruz Island: Nature And Snorkeling In Galapagos 4d/3n

5 reviews

96 hrs

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What experiences await you in this itinerary?

· Meet the Giants: Witness the iconic Galapagos giant tortoises as they roam freely in a private reserve.

· Snorkeling Adventure at Las Grietas: Dive into the breathtaking crystal-clear pools nestled between towering lava formations.

· Serenity at Tortuga Bay: Stroll down a fragrant pathway to a pristine white sand beach, a sanctuary for marine iguanas and sea lions.

· Explore Science and Conservation: Tour the renowned Charles Darwin Research Station to gain insights into conservation efforts at this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

· Discover Volcanic Wonders: Venture to Los Gemelos, two magnificent sunken craters encircled by verdant forest, a unique sight in the archipelago.

· Hassle-Free Travel: Enjoy included transfers to and from Baltra Airport, allowing you to focus solely on your enjoyment.

Tour Description

Day 1: Arrival at SANTA CRUZ ISLAND Airport and Conservation

Transfer to Puerto Ayora and explore the Charles Darwin Research Station (encounter baby turtles and visit the conservation center).

Day 2: Beaches, Giants, and Volcanoes

Enjoy a morning at the stunning Tortuga Bay beach, home to iguanas and sea lions, followed by an afternoon with giant tortoises in their natural setting, explore lava tunnels, and marvel at the impressive Los Gemelos craters.

Day 3: Relaxation and Snorkeling

Stroll and swim at the serene Playa de los Alemanes, then snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of Las Grietas.

Day 4: Departure

Enjoy breakfast before transferring to BALTRA Airport for your return flight.

What’s included?

What’s included:

• Airport – hotel – airport transfers • Accommodation – 3 nights • Certified Galapagos National Park guides • Shared sea and land transportation • Tours and excursions as per itinerary • Full board – set menu (breakfast, lunch, and dinner at a local restaurant) • Itabaca Channel ferry

What’s NOT included:

• Airfare • Immigration Control Card ($20 per passenger) • Galapagos National Park Tax (national $30 – Andean Pact $100 – foreign $200) • Isabela Island Dock Fee ($5.00 – foreign $10) • Santa Cruz Island Dock Fee ($1 per person) • Does not include services not mentioned in the program • Lobito Bus Ticket ($5 per person per leg) • Water taxis in port and between islands ($1.00 USD per leg in Santa Cruz, Isabela, and San Cristóbal) • Snorkeling equipment

Frequently Asked Questions

This program on Santa Cruz Island combines nature, wildlife, volcanic landscapes, and water activities in the Galápagos. During the experience, you'll observe giant tortoises in their natural habitat within a private reserve, snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of Las Grietas, and hike the trail leading to Tortuga Bay beach. You'll also visit the Charles Darwin Research Station, dedicated to the conservation of the archipelago, and Los Gemelos, two impressive sunken craters surrounded by lush forest. It's an ideal way to experience some of Santa Cruz's main natural attractions.

Yes, the itinerary includes a snorkeling experience at Las Grietas, one of Santa Cruz Island's natural attractions. There, you'll discover crystal-clear natural pools formed between towering lava walls, in a stunningly beautiful setting. This activity allows you to enjoy the Galapagos' aquatic environment within a unique volcanic landscape. To learn about the specific conditions, requirements, and operational details of the snorkeling, we recommend consulting the complete tour information before booking and verifying which aspects of the activity are included in the program.

Yes, one of the highlights of this Galapagos excursion is the encounter with the iconic giant tortoises. Observation takes place as they roam freely in their natural habitat, within a private reserve. Additionally, during the visit to Tortuga Bay, you can spot marine iguanas and sea lions on one of the archipelago's most spectacular white-sand beaches. This tour is designed to allow you to experience the wildlife and landscapes of Santa Cruz Island up close and respectfully. For more details about the visits and their organization, please consult the tour information.

The program offers a glimpse into two fundamental aspects of the Galápagos Islands: the conservation of their biodiversity and their volcanic origins. At the Charles Darwin Research Station, you'll learn about the scientific and conservation efforts that protect this World Heritage Site. You'll also visit Los Gemelos (The Twins), two impressive sunken craters nestled in a lush forest, a unique landscape within the archipelago. This combination of visits provides a comprehensive view of Santa Cruz Island, showcasing both its ecosystems and natural formations. For detailed itinerary information, please refer to the tour details.

The tour includes transfers to and from Baltra Airport, a convenience designed to simplify your trip to the Galápagos. This allows you to focus on enjoying the activities and attractions of Santa Cruz Island, such as Tortuga Bay, Las Grietas, the giant tortoise reserve, the Charles Darwin Research Station, and Los Gemelos. The program lasts 4 days and 3 nights, as indicated by the title. For the exact details of the transfers and any additional organizational information, we recommend consulting the complete tour information sheet.

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Type of Activity

Diving and Snorkelling Hiking & Trekking Nautical Activities

Traveler Class

Single Couple With friends Family

Cost Level

Average

Difficulty Level

Moderate

Cancellation Policy

General terms

Type of interest

ECOTOURISM Photography Nature and Wildlife Beaches