From Puerto Ayora: Santa Fe Island Snorkeling Day Tour

Santa Cruz Island, Galapagos, Ecuador



Get the opportunity to snorkel with playful sea lions in the stunningly beautiful, turquoise bay of Santa Fe Island – definitely an unforgettable experience and a real highlight!

Explore Santa Fe Island on a guided boat tour from Puerto Ayora, ideal for snorkeling beginners and nature enthusiasts.

Highlights

  • Snorkel with sea lions and diverse marine life in clear, turquoise waters
  • Visit one of the most picturesque bays with a white sand beach and lava rock cactus formations
  • Try fishing for yellowfin tuna or wahoo on the return trip
  • Discover the remote Hidden Beach with a naturalist guide

Description

After a 45-55 minute speedboat ride from Puerto Ayora, arrive at Santa Fe Island, known for its contrasting white sandy beach, dark lava rock cacti, and wildlife such as blue-footed boobies, pelicans, and occasionally the Galapagos hawk.

The bay offers a rich marine ecosystem with tropical fish, sea lions, turtles, rays, and sharks visible even before snorkeling. The calm, shallow waters make it suitable for beginners, children, and less confident swimmers.

Following snorkeling, enjoy a freshly prepared lunch featuring grilled fish, chicken, or ceviche, with vegetarian and vegan options available upon request. The tour continues with a visit to Hidden Beach, where you can relax, swim, or take a guided walk to see marine iguanas, mangrove species, pelicans, finches, and occasionally sea turtles.

On the return, you may try fishing for about 15-30 minutes if interested. Boats hold special fishing licenses, commonly catching yellowfin tuna or wahoo. If fishing occurs before lunch, fresh sashimi or ceviche might be served. Note that fishing is optional and limited in duration, and the order of activities may vary depending on conditions.

Includes

  • Round-trip speedboat transportation
  • Freshly prepared hot lunch or fresh ceviche (vegetarian and vegan options available on request)
  • Water and fruit juice
  • High-quality snorkeling equipment in a mesh bag
  • Long and comfortable wetsuit
  • Water taxi before and after the tour
  • Pre-tour briefing the evening before
  • Towels provided

Excludes

  • Gratuities
  • Alcoholic beverages

Important Information

  • The experience requires good weather; if canceled due to conditions, you will receive a full refund or an alternative date.
  • Mandatory reservation information:
    • Nationality
    • Passport number
    • Birthday
    • Full names
    • Dietary restrictions
    • Hotel name

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 3 days in advance for a full refund.

For the best experience, bring swimwear, sun protection, and a waterproof camera. The tour is suitable year-round, but checking weather conditions beforehand is recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions

You will snorkel with sea lions and marine species, visit calm bays ideal for beginners, explore Hidden Beach, and have the option to try fishing on the return trip.
The speedboat ride takes approximately 45 to 55 minutes each way.
Yes, the tour visits shallow, calm waters around Santa Fe Island that are suitable for snorkeling beginners.
Fishing is optional and brief, offered on the return trip with a licensed guide.
You will explore the remote Hidden Beach on foot, experiencing its diverse wildlife.
Snorkeling gear is often provided, but it's best to check the tour details or bring your own if preferred.
Yes, the tour is designed for families and nature enthusiasts looking for calm snorkeling conditions in Ecuador's Galapagos.
The tour operates year-round; check the website for current hours and seasonal conditions in Ecuador.
Yes, swimming and snorkeling with sea lions is a highlight of the Santa Fe Island tour.
Snorkeling occurs in clear, turquoise waters in one of Santa Fe Island's scenic bays known for calm, shallow conditions.

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