6 Days: Exploring Santa Cruz (Budget-Friendly Solo Adventure)
Duration
6 days
Max Group Size
16
Departure Type
Guaranteed
Guiding Method
Fully guided
Physical level
moderate
Operated In
Age Requirement
18 - 70 Ages
About this tour
Immerse yourself in the unparalleled natural wonder of the Galapagos Islands, where pristine beauty reigns supreme. This is an extraordinary journey, where you'll encounter endemic wildlife species found nowhere else on Earth, from the iconic giant tortoises to the playful blue-footed boobies. As you explore this remote archipelago, you'll be captivated by the breathtaking landscapes that stretch from rugged volcanic terrain to crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life. It's an unforgettable experience that promises to leave an indelible mark on your soul, a testament to the marvels of our planet's unique ecosystems.
Route
- 1Santa CruzNorth AmericaUnited StatesStart
- 2Santa Cruz IslandSouth AmericaEcuadorEnd
What makes this tour special
Itinerary
Arrive at Baltra Airport and take a transfer. You will have to pay an entrance fee for the Galapagos National Park and your luggage will be inspected.
This morning, Your private guide will pick you up from the hotel to explore the beauty of Santa Cruz.
You will start by visiting the Charles Darwin Station, where scientists from all over the world meet and work together on environmental projects such as water analysis, animal protection, effects of tourism on nature, etc., and the most famous place to see Giant Tortoises in the Galapagos where the animals are raised before being released into the wild. The actual name of the tortoise area here is the “Fausto Llerena” Breeding Center, named after the Galapagos National Park ranger who cared for Lonesome George. This is the best place in the Galapagos to view numerous different species and see how their tortoiseshell shapes have evolved differently to match the terrain and vegetation of the islands they are native to.
Then, you will continue toward Santa Cruz highlands where you will be amazed to see giant tortoises in the wild (in their natural habitat) at a private farm. You will enjoy a delicious lunch before returning to Puerto Ayora.
Meals: Lunch
Group type: Small group
We have reserved kayaks for you at Tortuga Bay. A 30-minute boat ride will lead you to Tortuga Bay, one of the most beautiful beaches in the Galapagos. When you are done kayaking, you may stay for sunbathing or snorkeling.
Afternoon leisure!
Meals: Breakfast
Group type: Small group
After a delicious breakfast, you will be taken on a small boat to visit exotic places along the bay of Santa Cruz.
You will arrive at the small islet called La Lobería named for the great colony of sea lions where you can snorkel around sea lions and tropical fish displaying a dazzling show beneath the surface against interesting underwater formations.
Afterward, at the Shark Channel, you may spot harmless white-tip sharks and blue footed boobies, you’ll come upon the Canal del Amor where you may find sea turtles and many tropical fish varieties.
Taking a 10-minute walk you’ll see marine iguanas in their natural habitat and have plenty of opportunities to take pictures.
Lastly, you will visit Las Grietas, which are two large cliffs separate filled with freshwater towards the top of the surface and salt water below.
In the afternoon you will return to the dock and return to your hotel, where you will spend the rest of the afternoon strolling and exploring Puerto Ayora on your own.
Meals: Breakfast
Group type: Small group
After a delicious breakfast, you will embark on a fantastic adventure to Pinzón Island and La Fe.
You will arrive at Pinzón, the first snorkel stop of the day, after disembarking at Penguin Bay, you will snorkel area with clear blue waters and much marine life. This site gives you a great chance to see many
Sea lions
Turtles
Reef sharks
Rays
Fish
Penguins
As the tour is run by fishermen there is a short fishing time, and any fish caught are served as fresh sashimi!
Another 30-minute ride will bring you to La Fé, a beautiful white sand beach where you will disembark and swim from the beach or just relax in the sun; lunch will be served on board; this is also the last snorkel site of the day where you can see sea lions, turtles, reef fish, rays and reef sharks as well!
Your day will finish back in Puerto Ayora, for a well-earned rest.
Meals: Breakfats and lunch
Group type: Small group
With no planned activities today, you're free to enjoy the island's beauty at your own pace.
Lay back and enjoy the hotel amenities or discover the following activities:
Hike to Tortuga Bay
Go for a stroll in the peaceful town of Puerto Ayora
Shop for souvenirs
Explore hidden coves
Today is for enjoying the beauty of the Galapagos, taking lots of beautiful photos, and slowing down the pace to truly appreciate island life.
Meals: Breakfast
Group type: Small group
After this final visit, you will be transferred to the Baltra airport in time for your flight back home.
Meals: Breakfast
Group type: Small group
Trip includes
Included
5 nights of accommodation in a hotel (2.5 Stars)
English and Spanish-speaking national guide
Guiding Method
Fully guided
Meals as mentioned on the itinerary.
Vegan
Vegetarian
MeatAll transfers according to the program
Excluded
Galapagos Flights not included
International flights are not included in the price.
Please book arrival and departure according to the itinerary.
Travel Insurance
We recommend that you take out travel cancellation and health insurance.
Please check with your private insurance provider in advance.
- National Park entrance fee (US$200 per person, payable only in cash)
- Galapagos Migration Card TCT (US$ 20 per person)
- Optional excursions
- Personal expenses such as tips
- Alcoholic drinks
- Any other meals, drinks, and/or services not mentioned in the program
Availability
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Make this journey exclusively yours
By design, this is a group tour. You can however request a private, customized version of this tour for yourself or your private group of people. Private departures are usually more expensive, but come with these benefits:
Personal
Itinerary can be tweaked and customized.
Protected
Travel withing your own bubble.
Professional
Access our Travel Specialists insider knowledge.
Privacy
Enjoy a tour focused solely on you or your travel group.
Why book with TravelShop Booking
Cancellation Policy
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