Best Activities to Do in Santa Cruz Island, Galapagos
Santa Cruz Island, the heart of the Galápagos archipelago, is renowned for its biodiversity and stunning landscapes. Whether you’re a nature lover, a beach enthusiast, or an adventure seeker, this island offers countless activities that will leave you in awe
In this guide, we’ll explore the most amazing activities Santa Cruz has to offer, along with essential details about prices and how to get to each place—helping you plan a trip that fits your budget.
1. Las Grietas
A unique swimming and snorkeling spot, Las Grietas is a series of crystal-clear water pools between volcanic rock formations. The calm waters make it a perfect place for a refreshing dip.
Location: Near Puerto Ayora
Price: $10 per person (a guide is mandatory)
How to get there: Take a $1 water taxi from the Puerto Ayora pier, which operates frequently and will drop you on the opposite side. From there, it's a 15-minute walk along a scenic trail that is easy to follow.
2. Day Tour to Isla Pinzón
A day tour to Isla Pinzón is a must for anyone interested in marine life. The tour typically runs from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and includes two snorkeling spots. You’ll have the chance to see blue-footed boobies, harmless sharks, sea turtles, and a wide variety of colorful fish.
Location: Offshore from Santa Cruz
Price: $100 per person (includes snacks and lunch)
How to get there: The tour departs from Puerto Ayora; you can book with a local agency. Be sure to reserve your spot in advance as this tour is popular and can fill up quickly
3. El Chato (Giant Tortoises)
At El Chato ranch, you can observe the famous Galápagos giant tortoises in their natural habitat. It’s a serene experience and can be done either with a tour, a hired taxi, or on your own.
Location: 16 km from Puerto Ayora
Price: $10 entry fee
How to get there: The most budget-friendly way is to take a bus from Puerto Ayora (near the municipal market) to Santa Rosa village for $1, then enjoy a scenic 1-hour walk where you'll encounter tortoises along the way. Alternatively, hiring a taxi costs around $40 for a group. If you prefer more structure, you can join a tour for about $35, which also visits the nearby Los Gemelos craters.
4. Tortuga Bay and Playa Brava
Tortuga Bay is one of the most stunning beaches in the Galápagos. Playa Brava offers strong waves for surfing, while the calmer Playa Mansa is perfect for swimming and kayaking.
Location: West of Puerto Ayora
Price: Free
How to get there: Accessible only by a 1-hour walk from Puerto Ayora along a well-marked trail. The walk is scenic, with lush vegetation and occasional wildlife sightings.
5. Isla Bartolomé
Known for its iconic viewpoint that offers the quintessential Galápagos postcard view, Isla Bartolomé is a must-visit. The island is famous for its volcanic landscapes and wildlife, including penguins.
Location: North of Santa Cruz
Price: Between $190 and $250, depending on the season
How to get there: Only accessible via organized tours from Puerto Ayora. Several agencies offer these tours, which often include snorkeling and meals, so it’s wise to compare options.
6. Isla Santa Fé
This island is home to the unique Santa Fé iguana and offers some of the best snorkeling opportunities, where you can swim alongside sea lions, turtles, and rays.
Location: Southeast of Santa Cruz
Price: $120 per person
How to get there: Only accessible via tours departing from Puerto Ayora. Book your tour in advance to secure your spot.
7. Lava Tunnels
Explore the fascinating lava tunnels formed by ancient volcanic activity. These tunnels provide a unique perspective on the geological forces that shaped the islands.
Location: Near Bellavista, Santa Cruz
Price: $5 entry fee
How to get there: You can reach the tunnels by hiring a taxi from Puerto Ayora for about $40 round trip, or by booking a tour that includes transport.
Where to Stay in Santa Cruz
Most visitors stay in Puerto Ayora, where accommodations range from budget hostels to luxurious hotels. The town is safe, and everything is within walking distance.
Here are some well-rated accommodations:
Morning Glory Galapagos $ (Our stay and highly recommended)
Hotel Galapagos Suites $
Hostal Tintorera $
Hotel Solymar $$
Hostal El Pinzón $
Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel $$
How to Get to and Around Santa Cruz
By plane:
Fly into Baltra Island, then take a $5 shuttle bus to the ferry dock, followed by a $1 ferry ride to Santa Cruz. From there, you can take a taxi to Puerto Ayora for $25 (for up to 4 people) or a $5 bus to the main station.
By bus:
Local buses operate within Puerto Ayora. However, the town is compact, making walking the most practical option.
By renting a bicycle:
Many tourists rent bicycles to explore the island. Rentals cost around $15 per day, providing an excellent way to enjoy the surroundings at your own pace.
By taxi boat:
For just $1, you can take a taxi boat to various parts of the island, including Las Grietas or Playa de los Alemanes.
Where to Eat in Puerto Ayora, Discover the best restaurants
Puerto Ayora offers two main types of dining experiences. Restaurants with à la carte menus start at $8 per plate and can go up to $30 for specialties like lobster. Alternatively, many local spots offer a menu del día for around $5, which includes a soup, a main dish, and a drink—perfect for budget travelers.
Here are some top-rated restaurants:
À la carte restaurants:
Isla Grill $$
Il Giardino $$
Finch Bay Restaurant $
Galápagos Deli $
Menu del día options:
Los Kioskos $
La Garrapata $
El Muelle de Darwin $
Casa del Lago $
This complete guide to Santa Cruz Island will help you plan the perfect trip, with something for every budget and interest!
