Arrival at Baltra Island Airport. Reception and welcome. Mobilize by bus, then on a motor barge that is taken to the side of Santa Cruz where you will take another bus or shared van to Puerto Ayora for check-in at the Hotel assigned by the Agency.

Puerto Ayora

Located on the seashore in the charming town of Puerto Ayora, on Santa Cruz Island, the Charles Darwin Research Center is much more than a tourist destination: it is a symbol of commitment to the science, conservation and sustainability of the Galapagos Archipelago. Founded in 1964, this center is internationally recognized for its scientific and educational work in one of the most unique and fragile ecosystems on the planet. Surrounded by a natural environment of breathtaking beauty, the center houses an active biological station where scientists from around the world collaborate on ecological restoration projects, endemic species monitoring and environmental education. Among its most emblematic attractions is the Giant Turtle Breeding Center, where visitors can take a close look at these majestic reptiles, the islands’ living symbol, and learn about breeding programs that have helped recover several threatened populations.

Puerto Ayora

Tortuga Bay Beach, located southwest of Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island, Galapagos Islands, is a protected beach within Galapagos National Park. It is accessed by walking along a 2.5 km path through native vegetation such as Opuntia cactus and palo santo. The beach is divided into two main areas: Playa Brava: extensive and open to the ocean, with strong waves, ideal for surfers but not suitable for swimming due to dangerous currents. Playa Mansa: Protected bay with calm waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling and kayaking. The environment hosts important coastal ecosystems with mangroves, sea turtles, marine iguanas, shorebirds such as pelicans and Darwin finches, as well as small sharks in safe areas. The beach is open to the public from 06:00 to 17:00, and since there are no services, it is recommended to bring water, sunscreen, food and strictly respect the conservation rules of the park.

Puerto Ayora

The upper part of Santa Cruz, located more than 400 m above sea level, is characterized by its wetter climate and lush vegetation 1. The Twins Two large subsidences formed by the collapse of magmatic chambers, surrounded by a forest of stairs. It is a site of high geological and botanical value, ideal for the observation of terrestrial birds such as Darwin finches, witchbirds (Cockroach) and owls. 2. Rancho Primicias Private property adapted for ecological tourism. Here giant Galapagos tortoises (Chelonoidis porteri) can be observed in the natural state, roaming freely in their original habitat. 3. Lava Tunnels Underground formations created by cooling external lava flows while the interior continued to flow. 4. Turtles in the Natural State The upper part is one of the main natural refuges for giant turtles, especially during the time of migration from the lower area to nest or feed.

Puerto Ayora

The Bahia Tour is a short boat trip from Puerto Ayora Pier, designed to explore various natural sites on the southwest coast of Santa Cruz. It combines hiking, snorkeling and observation of marine and terrestrial fauna. 1. Canal of Love Narrow channel of still waters and turquoise color, surrounded by high walls of eroded basaltic lava. It is a habitat for tropical fish, small reef sharks and occasionally sea turtles. 2. Playa de los Perros Accessed by a path of lava and coastal vegetation, this small beach of rock and sand is a place where large marine iguanas are observed sunbathing on black rocks. 3. Salt Mines Old site of artisanal exploitation of sea salt by the first inhabitants of Santa Cruz. 4. The Rifts Famous natural formation of deep fissures between walls of volcanic lava, filled with brackish and crystal clear water. Ideal for swimming or snorkeling in a unique environment.

Puerto Ayora

Small art galleries offer original works by local and national artists, featuring depictions of boobies, turtles, sea lions and volcanic landscapes. You can also find books, photographs, textiles and handicrafts made with natural materials such as tagua, solidified lava and vegetable fibers. For those looking to get a taste of the Galapagos, some specialty stores offer local products such as high-altitude coffee grown in Santa Cruz, artisan chocolates and natural creams made with ingredients from the region.

Puerto Ayora

You will pass the tourists at the reception of their hotel to take them up to the canal itabaca, then go to the airport of baltra