Santa Cruz Island Tours Designed by Local Experts

Explore the Galápagos with seamless planning, certified guides, and limited daily availability. Secure your tours before arrival.

Continue below to explore our complete range of tours

all these tours will start and end in Santa Cruz

Plan Your Trip on WhatsApp

Bartolome Island – Iconic Pinnacle Rock & Volcanic Landscapes

Bartolome Island offers one of the most iconic and breathtaking landscapes in the Galapagos. Known for its dramatic volcanic formations and the famous Pinnacle Rock, this island delivers a truly unique and unforgettable experience.

The adventure begins with a scenic navigation across crystal-clear waters, followed by a short hike to the summit, where you’ll be rewarded with one of the most spectacular panoramic views in the archipelago.

After the hike, you’ll have the opportunity to snorkel in calm, turquoise waters, often surrounded by Galapagos penguins, reef sharks, rays, and a wide variety of tropical fish.

This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a combination of stunning landscapes, light adventure, and exceptional wildlife encounters — all in a single day.

Read more...

Beyond its iconic views, Bartolome Island offers a deeper connection with the geological origins of the Galapagos. As you walk along the volcanic trail, your naturalist guide will explain how these islands were formed, giving you a richer understanding of this unique ecosystem.

The summit viewpoint is not only visually stunning, but also one of the most photographed locations in the archipelago — a perfect moment to capture unforgettable memories.

During the snorkeling session, conditions are usually calm and ideal for observing marine life up close. It is one of the few places in the Galapagos where you may encounter penguins swimming in their natural habitat, along with rays and reef sharks.

This experience is designed to be both accessible and rewarding, combining light physical activity with extraordinary natural beauty, making it suitable for most travelers.

    What’s Included

    • Certified naturalist guide
    • Lunch on board
    • Snorkeling equipment
    • Transportation

    Who Is This Tour For?

    This tour is ideal for travelers looking for a balance between light adventure and comfort. It is suitable for most visitors, including first-time travelers to Galapagos, as long as they are comfortable with a short hike and basic swimming skills.

    BOOK HERE

    North Seymour Island – Wildlife Encounters & Frigatebird Colonies

    North Seymour Island is one of the best destinations in Galapagos for close wildlife encounters. Walk among blue-footed boobies, frigatebirds, and sea lions in their natural habitat, and enjoy snorkeling in waters rich with marine life.

    Experience Highlights

    • Walk among blue-footed boobies and nesting frigatebirds
    • Observe male frigatebirds inflating their red throat pouch
    • Close encounters with sea lions and land iguanas
    • Snorkeling with rays, reef sharks, and tropical fish
    • Flat terrain, easy walk suitable for most travelers
    Read more ...

    This full-day tour to North Seymour Island offers one of the most rewarding wildlife experiences in the Galapagos. After departing from Santa Cruz Island, you will navigate towards the island while enjoying views of the open ocean and possible sightings of marine life.

    Upon arrival, you will begin a guided walk along a flat, well-marked trail. This island is known for its abundance of wildlife, allowing you to observe animals up close without disturbing them.

    You will encounter blue-footed boobies performing their characteristic mating dance, as well as frigatebirds nesting and flying overhead. Sea lions and land iguanas are also commonly seen along the trail.

    After the land visit, you will return to the boat and head to a nearby site for snorkeling, where you may see rays, reef sharks, and a variety of colorful fish in clear waters.

    —-Typical Day Itinerary—–

    Your day begins early with a transfer to the dock in Santa Cruz Island, where you will board the yacht. The navigation to North Seymour takes approximately one hour.

    Once on the island, you will enjoy a guided walk lasting around 1.5 hours, with plenty of opportunities for wildlife observation and photography.

    After the hike, lunch is served on board before heading to a snorkeling site.

    In the afternoon, you will navigate back to Santa Cruz Island.

    BOOK HERE

    South Plazas Island – Land Iguanas & Unique Coastal Landscapes

    South Plazas Island offers a unique combination of striking landscapes and abundant wildlife. Walk among land iguanas, sea lions, and vibrant vegetation while enjoying dramatic coastal views shaped by volcanic activity.

     

    Experience Highlights

    • Close encounters with land iguanas in their natural habitat
    • Large colonies of sea lions along the shore
    • Unique red and green vegetation (seasonal colors)
    • Dramatic cliffs with seabird activity
    • Short and easy walk, ideal for most travelers

    This full-day tour to South Plazas Island offers a fascinating mix of wildlife and unique geological formations. After departing from Santa Cruz Island, you will navigate across calm waters before reaching this small but incredibly diverse island.

    Upon arrival, you will disembark near a colony of sea lions, where your guided walk begins. The trail is short and relatively easy, allowing you to explore the island at a relaxed pace.

    South Plazas is especially known for its population of land iguanas, often seen resting under cactus trees or walking along the trail. Depending on the season, the landscape transforms with vibrant red vegetation, creating a striking contrast with the turquoise ocean.

    As you continue, you will reach the cliffs, where you may observe seabirds gliding over the waves and nesting along the rocky edges.

    BOOK  HERE

    Pinzon Island: A Rare Window into Galapagos Marine Life

    One of the Most Rewarding Snorkeling Experiences in the Archipelago
    Pinzón Island is one of the least visited yet most biologically rich marine sites in the Galápagos — a location known among experienced naturalist guides for its exceptional concentration of wildlife and consistently clear conditions.

     

    This is not a typical snorkeling tour. It is a carefully designed experience for travelers who seek genuine, high-quality encounters with marine life in a pristine and undisturbed environment.

    The waters surrounding Pinzón offer outstanding visibility, shaped by volcanic formations and nutrient-rich currents that attract a remarkable diversity of species. Here, wildlife encounters are not occasional — they are part of the natural rhythm of the ecosystem.

    You may find yourself swimming alongside playful sea lions, observing white-tip reef sharks resting beneath rocky ledges, or drifting through schools of vibrant reef fish. Under favorable conditions, sightings may also include Galápagos penguins, rays, and other passing species.

    Far from crowded routes, this experience allows for better positioning in the water, a more relaxed pace, and deeper immersion — key elements for those who truly value wildlife observation and meaningful moments in nature.

    READ MORE....

    Designed for Travelers Who Value Quality Over Quantity

    This experience is ideal for those who prioritize:

    • Meaningful wildlife encounters over mass tourism
    • Time and space in the water for proper observation
    • Small groups and thoughtful guiding
    • Access to locations that remain off the standard routes

    A Well-Balanced Day of Wildlife, Snorkeling, and Local Experience

    Your day begins with navigation toward Pinzón Island, one of the most rewarding marine sites near Santa Cruz, known for its calm waters and high concentration of marine life.

    The first snorkeling session takes place in a protected area where you will have the opportunity to swim alongside sea lions, observe white-tip reef sharks resting on the seabed, and explore vibrant underwater ecosystems filled with tropical fish.

    Second Activity – Depending on the Day’s Itinerary

    The second part of the experience varies depending on the day of operation and route assigned by the National Park:

    • Las Palmitas Area: A second snorkeling site with excellent visibility and diverse marine life, often featuring rays, reef fish, and occasionally larger species passing through.

    or

    • Bahía a la Fe (Santa Cruz Island): A coastal exploration combining light walking, beach time, and optional snorkeling in a tranquil bay surrounded by mangroves and unique volcanic landscapes.

    Fishing (PescExperiential a Vivencial)

    As part of the navigation, you will also experience a short experiential fishing demonstration, locally known as pesca vivencial.

    This includes a brief 10–20 minute demonstration of trolling fishing techniques, where the crew explains and showcases traditional methods used in the Galápagos.

    This activity is not focused on fishing itself, but rather on understanding local practices and adding a cultural element to the experience.

    A Complete Galápagos Experience

    This tour combines active snorkeling, scenic navigation, and a touch of local tradition — creating a well-rounded day that reflects both the natural richness and cultural identity of the Galápagos Islands.

    BOOK HERE

    Santa Fe Island: Pure Snorkeling in One of Galapagos’ Most Scenic Bays

    A Focused Marine Experience in Crystal-Clear Waters

    Santa Fe Island offers one of the most visually stunning marine environments in the Galápagos. Its protected bay, turquoise waters, and excellent visibility create ideal conditions for a relaxed yet highly rewarding snorkeling experience.

    This tour is designed for travelers who want to spend more time in the water, enjoying close and natural encounters with marine life in a calm and scenic setting.

    Snorkeling Experience – Two Carefully Selected Sites

    You will explore two different snorkeling locations around Santa Fe, each offering unique conditions and marine life.

     

    READ MORE...

    The first site typically features calm waters where playful sea lions are often present, creating dynamic and interactive encounters. The second location allows for a deeper exploration of the bay’s ecosystem, where you may observe reef fish, rays, and occasionally sea turtles moving through the area.

    Thanks to the island’s geography, water conditions are often clear and protected, allowing for longer, more comfortable snorkeling sessions.

    Third Stop – Hidden Beach (Depending on the Day’s Itinerary)

    The final part of the experience varies depending on the authorized route for the day:

    • Hidden Beach near Santa Cruz: A peaceful coastal area surrounded by mangroves, ideal for relaxing, short walks, or optional swimming in calm waters.

    This stop may take place either at the beginning or at the end of the tour, depending on the daily itinerary assigned.

    Experiential Fishing (Pesca Vivencial)

    During navigation, you will also experience a short experiential fishing demonstration, locally known as pesca vivencial.

    This includes a brief 10–20 minute demonstration of trolling fishing techniques, where the crew shares traditional local practices from the Galápagos.

    This activity is not focused on fishing itself, but adds a cultural and authentic element to the journey.

    A Clean, Well-Balanced Ocean Experience

    Santa Fe is ideal for travelers seeking a straightforward yet high-quality day focused on snorkeling, scenic navigation, and relaxed moments in nature — away from crowded routes and unnecessary rush.

    BOOK HERE

    Floreana Island Tour: Snorkeling & Flamingo Lagoon Walk

    Floreana Island offers a unique blend of wildlife, history, and scenic landscapes. This full-day excursion includes two exceptional snorkeling sessions in crystal-clear waters, where you may encounter sea turtles, rays, reef fish, and playful sea lions. On land, enjoy a short and easy walk to a coastal lagoon often visited by flamingos, followed by time on a beautiful white sand beach known for its striking green-hued sand and excellent opportunities for marine life observation right from the shore. The experience combines relaxed exploration with rich natural encounters, making it one of the most diverse day tours in the Galapagos.

    Tour Description

    This full-day excursion to Floreana Island offers a well-balanced combination of marine exploration and light land-based activities. The experience begins with two guided snorkeling sessions in calm, nutrient-rich waters, where guests can encounter a wide variety of marine life such as sea turtles, reef fish, rays, and occasionally reef sharks and sea lions.

    READ MORE...

    Following the snorkeling activities, the tour continues with a landing at Punta Cormorant. From here, guests will enjoy a short and easy walk along a marked trail leading to a coastal lagoon, one of the few places in the Galapagos where flamingos can be observed in their natural habitat. The walk then continues toward a unique white sand beach, known for its high concentration of marine life just offshore.

    The day is designed to provide a seamless and enriching experience, combining wildlife observation, scenic landscapes, and relaxed exploration, all operated under the guidance of a certified naturalist guide.

    Inclusions

    • Shared speedboat or yacht transportation to Floreana Island
    • Two guided snorkeling sessions (mask and fins included if required)
    • Certified bilingual naturalist guide
    • Lunch served onboard or on the island
    • Snacks and refreshments
    • Guided walk to Flamingo Lagoon and coastal trail at Punta Cormorant
    • All operational logistics and coordination

      BOOK HERE

      Daphne & Roca Ahogada Experience: Snorkeling & Marine Life

      This full-day marine excursion explores the rich waters surrounding Daphne Islet and Roca Ahogada, two remarkable sites known for their abundant marine biodiversity and striking volcanic formations. The experience includes guided snorkeling sessions in clear, open waters where guests may encounter sea  MANTA RAYS, turtles, rays, reef fish, and schools of pelagic species, often accompanied by sea lions in their natural environment.

      Surrounded by dramatic cliffs and deep ocean channels, this tour offers a more dynamic and immersive marine setting, ideal for travelers seeking a deeper connection with the Galapagos underwater world. The journey combines scenic navigation, wildlife observation, and carefully selected snorkeling locations to ensure both safety and high-quality encounters throughout the day.

      Tour Description

      This excursion is designed as a marine-focused experience, ideal for guests interested in snorkeling and observing wildlife in more open and dynamic ocean environments. The navigation takes place around Daphne Islet, a protected and uninhabited volcanic formation, followed by snorkeling activities near Roca Ahogada, an area known for its underwater rock structures and marine activity.

      Throughout the day, guests will participate in guided snorkeling sessions in carefully selected locations based on sea conditions. The guide will provide orientation and ensure safe access to the water, adapting the experience to the group’s comfort level.

      The tour is operated in small groups to maintain a more personalized experience, with continuous guidance and support from a certified naturalist guide.

      Inclusions

      • Shared speedboat or yacht transportation
      • Guided snorkeling sessions (mask and fins included if required)
      • Certified bilingual naturalist guide
      • Lunch served onboard
      • Snacks and refreshments
      • Safety equipment and briefing
      • All operational logistics and coordination

      BOOK HERE

      Pinzon & Daphne 180° Experience: Snorkeling & Coastal Escape

      This full-day 180° navigation offers one of the most complete marine experiences in Santa Cruz, combining two exceptional snorkeling sites with a relaxing beach stop. The tour explores the rich waters of Pinzón Island and the surroundings of Daphne Islet, both recognized for their high concentration of marine life and clear visibility. Guests will enjoy guided snorkeling sessions at each location, with opportunities to encounter sea turtles, reef sharks, rays, sea lions, and large schools of fish.

      Tour Description

      The 180° tour is designed as an extended navigation experience, reaching more remote and less-visited sites compared to standard day tours. The day includes two dedicated snorkeling sessions — one at Pinzón Island, known for its calm waters and abundant marine life, and another around Daphne Islet, where ocean currents attract a wide variety of species.

      In addition to snorkeling, the itinerary includes a landing at a designated beach (assigned according to the daily route and park regulations), where guests can relax, swim, or explore the shoreline. The combination of multiple ecosystems — open ocean, rocky formations, and beach environments — provides a diverse and well-rounded Galapagos experience.

      All activities are conducted under the supervision of a certified naturalist guide, ensuring both safety and meaningful interpretation throughout the excursion.

      Inclusions

      • Shared speedboat or yacht transportation (180° navigation route)
      • Two guided snorkeling sessions (Pinzón & Daphne)
      • Beach stop (location assigned according to itinerary)
      • Certified bilingual naturalist guide
      • Lunch served onboard or at the beach
      • Snacks and refreshments
      • Snorkeling equipment (mask and fins, if required)
      • Safety equipment and briefing
      • All operational logistics and coordination

      BOOK HERE

      Santa Cruz Highlands Experience: Lava Tunnels & Twin Craters

       

      Discover the lush highlands of Santa Cruz, a striking contrast to the coastal landscapes of the Galapagos. This land-based experience takes you into a cooler, greener ecosystem where giant tortoises roam freely in their natural habitat. The visit includes exploration of ancient lava tunnels—impressive volcanic formations created by flowing magma—and a stop at Los Gemelos (the Twin Craters), massive geological sinkholes surrounded by endemic Scalesia forest and rich birdlife.

      Tour Description

      This half-day excursion offers a deeper understanding of the geological and ecological diversity of Santa Cruz Island. The journey begins in the highlands, where guests will have the opportunity to observe giant tortoises in the wild, often found grazing or resting in humid pasture areas.

      The tour continues with a guided walk through lava tunnels, allowing visitors to explore the internal structure of volcanic formations that shaped the islands millions of years ago. The experience then proceeds to Los Gemelos, two large collapsed craters located along the island’s central highlands, where short walking trails provide excellent viewpoints and opportunities to observe endemic vegetation and bird species.

      This experience is conducted with private transportation and guided interpretation, offering a relaxed pace and a more personalized connection with the natural environment.

      Inclusions

      • Private transportation (hotel pick-up and drop-off / airport transfer available ask about this on whatsapp)
      • Certified naturalist guide
      • Visit to giant tortoise reserve in the highlands
      • Entrance to lava tunnels
      • Visit to Los Gemelos (Twin Craters)
      • All operational logistics and coordination

      BOOK HERE

      Santa Cruz Bay Discovery Tour

      Explore the calm turquoise waters of Academy Bay on this half-day excursion, combining scenic navigation, short guided walks, and unique snorkeling sites. The tour visits iconic locations such as Playa de los Perros, Canal del Amor, Canal de los Tiburones, and Las Grietas, offering a dynamic mix of coastal landscapes and marine encounters. A guided snorkeling session at Punta Estrada introduces guests to a vibrant underwater environment, followed by free time to swim or snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of Las Grietas.

      Tour Description

      This bay tour is designed as a relaxed yet diverse experience, ideal for guests looking to explore the highlights around Puerto Ayora without long navigation times. The excursion begins with a short boat ride across the bay, followed by visits to several key sites.

      At Playa de los Perros, guests will enjoy a brief walk through a cactus-lined trail leading to a coastal viewpoint, often frequented by marine iguanas. The itinerary continues to Canal del Amor, a narrow volcanic channel known for its calm waters and scenic rock formations, and Canal de los Tiburones, where small white-tip reef sharks can often be observed resting in the shallow waters.

      The experience also includes a guided snorkeling session at Punta Estrada, where guests can encounter reef fish, sea lions, and other coastal species. The final highlight is Las Grietas, a series of natural lava fissures filled with clear brackish water, where guests will have time to swim or snorkel in one of the most iconic natural pools in the Galapagos.

      All activities are conducted at a comfortable pace, with continuous guidance and support from a naturalist guide.

      Inclusions

      • Boat transportation within Academy Bay
      • Certified bilingual naturalist guide
      • Snorkeling session at Punta Estrada
      • Visit to Playa de los Perros, Canal del Amor, Canal de los Tiburones, and Las Grietas
      • Time for swimming/snorkeling at Las Grietas
      • Snorkeling equipment (mask and fins, if required)
      • Bottled water
      • All operational logistics and coordination

      BOOK HERE

      1