VISIT HIGHLANDS ECOLOGICAL RANCH + HALF BAY TOUR SANTA CRUZ

Santa Cruz Island Half Day Tour: Highlands and Bay Exploration

This half day tour on Santa Cruz Island suits families and nature lovers interested in wildlife, snorkeling, and volcanic landscapes around Academy Bay.

Highlights

• Visit five key sites in Academy Bay on Santa Cruz Island
• Explore the highlands' ecological ranch to see giant tortoises in their natural habitat
• Snorkel in the clear waters of Las Grietas, considered the best snorkeling spot in the bay

Description

The tour begins with a 7:40 am hotel pickup in a private vehicle to Santa Cruz Highlands. First, visit an ecological ranch to observe giant tortoises, explore lava tunnels, and enjoy lunch overlooking endemic forests.

Next, visit Los Gemelos Crater to walk around its caldera, featuring dormant volcanoes and lush vegetation. After the highlands visit, return to the port to board a comfortable boat for a bay tour.

The boat tour includes five main sites: Playa Los Perros, Punta Estrada, Las Grietas, Franklin Bay, and Punta Estrada, offering opportunities for snorkeling and wildlife observation.

Includes

• Hotel pickup
• Guided highlands and half day bay excursion
• Entrance tickets to the ecological ranch
• Lunch and soft drink at a local restaurant
• Comfortable boat ride
• Snorkeling mask and beach towel
• Private car for the highland tour

Excludes

• Personal expenses
• Meals not specified

Important Information

• Suitable for all ages including children and senior citizens
• Short boat navigation through Santa Cruz Bay
• Highlands tour offers excellent photography and insights into endemic animals and Galapagos evolutionary history

Easy Cancellation

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

For the best experience, bring sun protection, swimwear, and a waterproof camera. The tour operates year-round, with calmer waters ideal for snorkeling between June and November.