Transfer In - Darwin Centre

Santa Cruz - Upon arrival at Baltra Island Airport, guests will be warmly welcomed. They will then travel by bus and motor barge to the Santa Cruz side, where another bus or shared van will take them to Puerto Ayora for check-in at the hotel arranged by the agency.

Puerto Ayora - Nestled on the coastline of the picturesque town of Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island, the Charles Darwin Research Center is more than just a tourist spot; it represents a dedication to science, conservation, and sustainability in the Galapagos Archipelago. Established in 1964, this center is globally acclaimed for its scientific and educational contributions to one of the planet’s most unique and delicate ecosystems.

Surrounded by stunning natural beauty, the center features an active biological station where international scientists collaborate on ecological restoration, endemic species monitoring, and environmental education projects. Among its notable attractions is the Giant Turtle Breeding Center, where visitors can closely observe these magnificent reptiles, the living emblem of the islands, and learn about breeding programs that have aided in the recovery of several endangered populations.

Tortuga Bay Beach - Upper Part of Santa Cruz Island

Puerto Ayora - Tortuga Bay Beach, situated southwest of Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island in the Galapagos, is a protected beach within the Galapagos National Park. It is accessible via a 2.5 km path through native vegetation like Opuntia cactus and palo santo. The beach is divided into two main sections:

• Playa Brava: A vast, open area facing the ocean with strong waves, perfect for surfers but not safe for swimming due to dangerous currents.
• Playa Mansa: A sheltered bay with calm waters, ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking.

The area supports vital coastal ecosystems with mangroves, sea turtles, marine iguanas, shorebirds like pelicans and Darwin finches, and small sharks in safe zones.

The beach is open to the public from 06:00 to 17:00. Visitors are advised to bring water, sunscreen, food, and to strictly adhere to the park’s conservation rules.

Puerto Ayora - The upper region of Santa Cruz, located over 400 meters above sea level, is known for its wetter climate and lush vegetation.

1. The Twins: Two large sinkholes formed by the collapse of magma chambers, surrounded by a forest of stairs. This site is of significant geological and botanical interest, ideal for observing terrestrial birds such as Darwin finches, witchbirds (Cockroach), and owls.
2. Rancho Primicias: A private property adapted for ecological tourism, where giant Galapagos tortoises (Chelonoidis porteri) can be seen in their natural habitat, roaming freely.
3. Lava Tunnels: Underground formations created by the cooling of external lava flows while the interior continued to flow.
4. Turtles in the Natural State: The upper region is a primary natural refuge for giant turtles, especially during their migration from lower areas to nest or feed.

Bay Tour - Afternoon Shopping

Puerto Ayora - The Bahia Tour is a brief boat excursion from Puerto Ayora Pier, designed to explore various natural sites along the southwest coast of Santa Cruz. It combines hiking, snorkeling, and observing marine and terrestrial wildlife.

1. Canal of Love: A narrow channel with still, turquoise waters, surrounded by high walls of eroded basaltic lava. It is home to tropical fish, small reef sharks, and occasionally sea turtles.
2. Playa de los Perros: Accessed via a path of lava and coastal vegetation, this small rocky and sandy beach is where large marine iguanas can be seen basking on black rocks.
3. Salt Mines: An old site of artisanal sea salt extraction by Santa Cruz’s early inhabitants.
4. The Rifts: A renowned natural formation of deep fissures between volcanic lava walls, filled with brackish and crystal-clear water, perfect for swimming or snorkeling in a unique setting.

Puerto Ayora - Small art galleries offer original works by local and national artists, featuring depictions of boobies, turtles, sea lions, and volcanic landscapes. Visitors can also find books, photographs, textiles, and handicrafts made from natural materials like tagua, solidified lava, and vegetable fibers.

For those wishing to savor the Galapagos, specialty stores offer local products such as high-altitude coffee grown in Santa Cruz, artisan chocolates, and natural creams made with regional ingredients.

Transfer Out

Puerto Ayora - Guests will be picked up from their hotel reception to be taken to the airport.

• Full board breakfast (your hotel), lunch and dinner (restaurant)
• Lunch
• Dinner
• Breakfast
• Snorkeling equipment (tube, mask). Hotel Tax.
• Naturalist guide certified by Galapagos National Park
• Accommodation in the hotels assigned by the Operator and described in its itinerary
• Passenger support and daily support, Transfer IN – OUT

Dear tourists, you will be picked up outside Seymour North Airport by a company guide, easily identifiable in a black or white polo shirt featuring the Discovering Galapagos logo and their name. The guide will hold a sign with your name and will escort you to your hotel. On your departure day, you will be dropped off at Seymour North Airport.

Embark on a unique and unforgettable journey to one of the most extraordinary destinations on Earth: the Galapagos Islands. This service is meticulously crafted to provide not just a sightseeing tour, but a genuine connection with the nature, history, and enchantment of this natural paradise.

Guided by passionate and knowledgeable local experts, you will explore volcanic landscapes, pristine white sand beaches, and crystal-clear waters teeming with life. Experience walking among giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and birds found nowhere else in the world.

If you cancel at least 3 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel within 3 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.