Giant Turtle Watching and Lava Tunnels Tour
Overview
Available languages
3 hours
Mobile ticket
Are you ready to live an unforgettable adventure in the wonderful Galapagos Islands? We invite you to discover the Galapagos Frontier reserve, a natural paradise where you can meet face to face with the legendary giant tortoises and explore the mysterious lava tunnels in their natural state.
Our naturalist guide, with more than 30 years of experience, will take you on a fascinating journey through the endemic forest of the Galapagos. Breathe the fresh air and let yourself be enveloped by the exuberant flora and fauna that surrounds you. At each step, you will witness the unique beauty of endemic species such as owls, canaries and the famous Darwin's finches.
But that is not all. Immerse yourself in an amazing underground world as you enter the lava tunnels. Marvel at the impressive formations of stalactites and stalagmites that have been forged over thousands of years. Discover the geological secrets of the Galapagos Islands as you come across the graceful Tito Alva owl.
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Would you like to meet the incredible Galapagos giant tortoises in their natural habitat and explore the lava tunnels? Come discover the Galapagos Frontier reserve, where an experienced naturalist guide will accompany you on a tour of the endemic Galapagos forest! At the Galapagos Frontier reserve, we will welcome you with a natural fruit juice. During the tour, we will cross the transition forest of the Galapagos, home to a wide variety of endemic plants and where you can observe giant tortoises in their natural environment. You will also have the opportunity to spot various endemic bird species, such as owls, canaries and different types of Darwin's finches. Afterwards, we will enter the impressive lava tunnels with their formations of stalactites and stalagmites. We will learn about the formation of the Galapagos Islands and you will have the chance to observe the tito alba owl. In addition, we will walk along paths surrounded by fruit trees such as tangerines, oranges, avocados, soursop, plums and many other seasonal fruits. We will also learn more about the local fauna. Don't miss out on this incredible experience at the Galapagos Frontier!
What‘s Included
Coffee and/or Tea
Options
Giant Turtle Watching and Lava Tunnels Tour
Reviews
68 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Tortoise Experience
Peter L,Apr 14, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Great opportunity to view the giant tortoises in their natural environment. The lava caves were very interesting and our guide very knowledgeable.
Great experience
caroline c,Apr 9, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00It was such the perfect day on land ! First, the hosts were very nice. They gave us a lot of informations about wildlife and plants from the Galapagos. Second, the nature and the cave were just gorgeous! Those old tortoise were just right next to us, not really bothered . We saw some ducks as well and a multitude of birds.
The volunteer that did...
Elisha K,Mar 31, 2026
- Review from Viator
3.00The volunteer that did the tour was wonderful. You definitely need footwear with tread for inside the tunnels as it was a bit slippery with tennis shoes. Also, you need to wear higher socks because there are biting ants and they hurt.
Good Hiking Tour
Randy P,Mar 15, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00The location is a fair distance from town. Taxis in town are everywhere and cheap. Our hotel deak ordered one for $10. This is a hiking tour that has a certified guide. Be sure to wear closed shoes. There are biting ants. Caeser was a wonderful guide, he also had and English translator with him. They took us from their facility into the National Park. He was extremely knowlegable. We saw many giant turtles in the wild and local birds and plants. The caves / lava tubes were worth the hike. I would highly recommend this tour as part of your visit to Santa Cruz Island.
The best experience
GRACE C,Mar 5, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Great to meet the giant turtles and walk alongside them is amazing, the lava tunnel was the best and going with my mom was still spice
Very interesting and exciting to see the tortoises.
775florap,Mar 2, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I was picked up from my hotel and driven to the location which was very convenient. The location wqs in a beautiful place and the guide was very knowledgeable about the tortoises, the environment and the lava tunnels. It was an interesting tour and I would highly recommend it.
Nice walk
Retired Cormac,Feb 26, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We got to see loads of giant tortoises (I think the description of the tour needs to be changed), great walk through the forest and the lava tunnels were epic.
Well worth thr money, relaxing
John E,Feb 21, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Had a great time hiking around in the caves and through the mainland of Santa Cruz. Awesome seeing a lot of the birds and the giant turtles
Amazing experience
Tatjana A,Feb 14, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00It was amazing. Our tour guide was very knowledgeable about the plants and of course the turtles. I highly recommend this tour
100%recommendation
x OnTour x,Feb 12, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00great tour! highly recommended!
From US$39.99
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