Puerto Ayora: Santa Cruz Highlands and Snorkeling Day Tour

Santa Cruz Island, Galapagos, Ecuador



The best of Santa Cruz in one tour with all services included! Visit the Ranch and walk among turtles and abundant nature. Afterwards, dive in crystal clear waters with colorful fish.

Day Tour: Santa Cruz Bay and Highlands Exploration

This full-day tour in Santa Cruz, Galapagos, is ideal for families and seniors seeking wildlife encounters and nature activities.

Highlights

  • Visit the Ecological Ranch in Santa Cruz Highlands to see giant Galapagos tortoises in their natural habitat
  • Swim with turtles and sea lions at Las Grietas and Punta Estrada
  • Enjoy delicious meals, desserts, and organic coffee throughout the day

Description

The day begins with a boat tour of Santa Cruz Bay, stopping at five key locations for swimming, snorkeling, and hiking. After the boat tour, lunch is served with various menu options and sea views.

In the afternoon, explore the Highlands of Santa Cruz Island, including the Ecological Ranch where you can observe giant tortoises and learn about the protection of endemic forests. The tour concludes with organic coffee and daily desserts grown on the ranch.

This program is designed to offer a comfortable and engaging experience, especially for families and seniors.

Includes

  • Hotel pickup in Puerto Ayora
  • Private car transportation
  • Professional guide
  • Comfortable boat
  • Snorkel mask
  • Lunch
  • Admission to the Ecological Ranch
  • Snack at the ranch

Excludes

  • Visits and services not specified
  • Personal expenses
  • Additional meals, snacks, and drinks
  • Alcoholic beverages

Important Information

  • The tour has two sections: a boat sailing part and a Highlands excursion.
  • There is time allocated to return to your hotel to change clothes between activities.
  • Recommended for those seeking nature, quiet, and disconnection.

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

For the best experience, bring swimwear, comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and a camera. The ideal time to visit is during the dry season for calmer seas and clearer skies.

Frequently Asked Questions

You can see giant Galapagos tortoises in the Santa Cruz Highlands and swim with turtles and sea lions at Las Grietas and Punta Estrada.
The tour takes place on Santa Cruz Island in the Galapagos, Ecuador.
Yes, snorkeling is included at several sites like Las Grietas and Punta Estrada during the tour.
It is a full-day tour exploring multiple sites around Santa Cruz Island; check the website for exact timings.
Yes, the tour is ideal for families, seniors, and nature lovers seeking wildlife and hiking experiences.
The tour includes delicious meals, desserts, and organic coffee throughout the day.
Snorkeling gear is usually provided, but verify with the tour operator before your trip.
The tour typically begins from Puerto Ayora with a comfortable boat ride around Santa Cruz Island.
Yes, hiking is part of the tour, especially in the ecological ranch area in the highlands.
The tour is available year-round; check the website for current availability and weather conditions.

Trusted local guides, read by millions every month

  • 2006 online since
  • 26.2M page views a month across the network
  • 14 languages

180+ destination guides, one network

Every guide covers a single destination on its own website, with events, restaurants, things to do and places to stay chosen from local recommendations.

My Guide Network Locations

Nearby Destinations

Add to your trip

Add your travel dates so we can place this on the right day, or save it for later.

Added to your trip Added to day {[{trip.toast.day}]}, MorningAfternoonEvening Saved to your trip Already in your trip Transfer saved to your trip Save your trip to get fresh suggestions Staying in {[{trip.toast.label}]} Base cleared Trip deleted Link copied Could not save your trip Something went wrong, please try again