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Santa Cruz
Today, Santa Cruz is one of the main inhabited islands of the Galapagos and an important center of tourism and conservation. Puerto Ayora, the largest city on the island, is the starting point for many island exploration trips, and is home to a large number of organizations and research projects dedicated to the conservation and protection of the Galapagos ecosystem.
In addition to its historical and scientific importance, Santa Cruz is known for its stunning landscapes, such as white sand beaches, tall volcanoes, and famous lava tunnels. It is also home to a variety of iconic species, such as the Galapagos giant tortoises and Darwin's finches.
The history of Santa Cruz in the Galapagos Islands is a combination of exploration, colonization, economic development and conservation. Its natural wealth and its role in Darwin's theory of evolution make it a unique and fascinating place for both scientists and tourists who visit it.
The main city of Santa Cruz is Puerto Ayora.
ANA GOMEZ
Santa Cruz is the island with the most tourist activity. It is, therefore generally, where most cruises depart from. It also has several free activities to do on your own, so it is quite interesting.
Like San Cristóbal, Santa Cruz has an airport where flights from the continent arrive from.
If you arrive to the island by plane, you will land at Seymour Airport in Baltra, a small island of 27 km². To get to Puerto Ayora, you must take a bus ($5) and cross the canal by boat, paying one dollar per person.
It is located only 1 km from the north coast of Santa Cruz Island and has no tourist attractions, although iguanas can be found in the surrounding area.
Galapagos Islands Specialist
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Once you cross the Itabaca Canal, you can take a public bus to Puerto Ayora for $10. Of course, you have to wait for it to fill up.
Or if you prefer, you can take a taxi to Puerto Ayora for $25.
You can also take advantage of the entrance or exit to the island to visit the upper part of the island. If you hire this service with the taxi driver, it will cost you about $60 with a visit to Los Gemelos and Rancho Primicias, a place where you can see huge specimens of turtles (guided entry $7,5). (More information about the upper part of the island below)
For those who have their tour pre-arranged, they often meet their guide at the airport. From here you will be transferred to your yacht or begin your first excursion on Santa Cruz Island.
You can also arrive from another island by ferry. You will arrive at the port, in the center of Puerto Ayora, where you have to pay a dollar tourist tax.
If you leave the island this way, you will find the ferry companies with little tables in the square, where you can find the company that provided you with the ticket and wait in line. Go with enough time, as it gets very busy...
Santa Cruz Island is the second largest island in the Archipelago with an area of 986 km2, and it is also the highest point and the Crocker Hill at 864 meters.
Santa Cruz has the largest population in the Galapagos, especially in the town of Puerto Ayora on the south coast. With nearly 20,000 inhabitants, it is the largest human settlement on the islands and offers some tourist facilities.
What to do in Santa Cruz:
CHARLES DARWIN SCIENTIFIC STATION
In 1959, the centenary of Charles Darwin's publication “Origin of Species”, the Government of Ecuador and the International Charles Darwin Foundation established the Charles Darwin Station at the Academia de la Bahía near Puerto Ayora with the support of UNESCO.
Lonely George It was an iconic and solitary giant tortoise of the species Chelonoidis abingdoni, which became a symbol of conservation and attention to the biodiversity of the Galapagos Islands. For years, it was considered the last of its species, coming from Pinta Island.
The Charles Darwin Research Station (ECCD) on Santa Cruz Island played a crucial role in efforts to preserve this species and, specifically, in attempts to breed Lonesome George to save his species from extinction. The station became their home for decades.
Despite tireless efforts, Lonesome George failed to breed with the females of similar species he was paired with, and sadly died in June 2012, ending hopes of saving his species from direct extinction. His death was a serious blow to the scientific community and to all those who had closely followed his reproduction attempts.
The ECCD, through its captive breeding program, kept close track of Lonesome George and strove to provide him with the best conditions for his well-being, while actively seeking ways to preserve his species.
His body is embalmed and is now displayed at Charles Darwin Station in memory of the joys he brought to visitors to the islands.
The main goal of the Charles Darwin Interpretation Center is to educate visitors about the natural history, ecology, conservation and unique importance of the Galapagos Islands. It offers interactive exhibits, information displays, educational videos and exhibits explaining the geological formation of the islands, the unique biodiversity of the region and the relevance of Darwin's research.
Exhibitions inform the interested traveler about the climate and geography and give an idea of the evolution of the flora and fauna.
In this turtle conservation enclosure, baby turtles are lovingly cared for.
As soon as they are strong enough, they are prepared for repatriation.
From neonates and juveniles to adults.
To get from Puerto Ayora to the Charles Darwin Research Station on the island of Santa Cruz, in the Galapagos, there are several options available:
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Walking or cycling: The station is located approximately 2 kilometers northwest of Puerto Ayora. The walk can take around 20 minutes. You can also rent a bike.
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Taxi: In Puerto Ayora, taxis are available that can take visitors to the Research Station. It is advisable to agree on the price with the driver before starting the trip.
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Public transportation: Another option is to take a local bus heading towards the Research Station. These buses may not follow a regular schedule, so it is advisable to ask locals about schedules and stops.
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Organized tour: Many tourism agencies offer guided tours of the Scientific Station as part of their tourist packages in Santa Cruz. These tours may include transportation from Puerto Ayora to the station, as well as guides who provide detailed information about the research and conservation taking place at the station.
Admission to the science station is free. If you want to go to the Turtle Walk and see Lonesome George, the entrance fee is $10.
The hours are Monday to Sunday from 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
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UPPER PART OF SANTA CRUZ ISLAND
Especially impressive and a must for all Galapagos visitors is to head to the upper part of Santa Cruz, in the center of the island.
The upper part is markedby extinct volcanoes and amazing plants that can be found there.
In good weather (unpredictable) this area offers beautiful landscapes of hills and extinct volcanic cones, covered with abundant exuberant vegetation, all year round, in addition to meter-high ferns and Miconia bushes, you can also see Scalesia forests.
Scalesias belong to the sunflower family which grew due to the absence of trees.
Popular tourist sites to visit are the twin craters (Los Gemelos) which are currently sinkholes. In the upper part there are also some lava tunnels with a length of up to 2 km, which were formed when the lava came out and solidified and inside, the hot lava, still liquid, continued to flow.
Nowadays you can explore the mystical and shadowy tunnels with a torch and lamp. Near the town of Santa Rosa is the reserve: “El Chato”, where giant tortoises can be observed in their natural environment.
There is a wide lagoon of grasslands and cloud forests where short-eared owls, Darwin's finches, witch birds, flytraps, and spotted chicks can also be seen.
TURTLE BAY
A well-maintained road of approximately one hour will take you from Puerto Ayora to Bahía Tortuga. It is considered one of the best beaches in the world, due to its impressive landscape, crystal clear waters and the possibility of observing the marine and terrestrial life characteristic of the Galapagos.
This hike is good for the obird watching. It is easy to see several species of finches along the path. The sunsets here are excellent.
The west inlet offers a very nice area for snorkeling, swimming and relaxing. You will find Playa Brava, which is spectacular but is often closed to swimming due to currents, and Playa Mansa, an area with mangroves that is quiet and beautiful at the same time.
The water is crystal clear, very suitable for swimming, because there is almost no current.
Underwater you may encounter sharks or marine iguanas, while observing seabirds such as pelicans and flamingos from the surrounding mangroves.
The white sand of the beach is considered by many to be the most beautiful in the archipelago. Its name comes from the sea turtles that leave their eggs.
Other species can be found, including pelicans, flamingos and marine iguanas.
THE LAGOON OF THE NYMPHS
In the heart of Puerto Ayora, we find La Laguna de las Ninfas.
It is a beautiful natural oasis surrounded by lush vegetation, home to waterfowl and a peaceful place to relax and enjoy the serenity of nature.
You can observe birds and turtles, or simply stop to read with
the tranquility that the site emanates.
Open from 6am to 6pm. Free entrance.
FISHERMEN'S MARKET
The Santa Cruz fishermen's market is a key point in the local life of Puerto Ayora. Here, the fishermen arrive every morning.ñana with its fresh catches, ranging from a variety of fish to seafood such as lobsters and shrimp. Locals and tourists can explore the market's fresh and lively offerings, purchase freshly caught fish, and enjoy delicious meals prepared with local produce. It is a colorful and bustling place that reflects the daily life and fishing tradition of the Galapagos Islands.
Here, in addition to buyers, a large part of the local fauna gathers, ready to "re-fish" a piece. Iguanas, sea lions, pelicans, herons, frigates... they all appear expectantly to feed on the leftovers,
Curious and fun place.
BACHAS BEACH
These two small beaches are located west of Caleta Tortuga. Its sand is made from decomposed coral, which makes it white and soft.
It is the favorite place for sea turtles to nest. Behind one of the beaches is a small brackish water lagoon, where it is occasionally possible to spot flamingos and other coastal birds, such as black-necked stilts and curlews.
If you haven't seen enough turtles yet, you should take a boat to go near Caleta Tortuga Negra.
Passing some small bays you can see rays and white-finned reef sharks arrive at the cove that is home to the black turtles.
THE GRIESTAS (FREE)
They are a popular destination for tourists visiting Santa Cruz Island. These cracks were formed due to volcanic activity and are composed of narrow fissures with rock walls rising on both sides. The water that seeps into these cracks comes from the ocean and creates shallow, crystal-clear pools of water.
Visitors often enjoy swimming or diving in these waters due to their clarity and the beauty of the surroundings. Additionally, there are roads and trails that allow tourists to explore the area and appreciate the geological uniqueness of Las Grietas.
This place offers a unique experience for nature lovers and geology enthusiasts, allowing you to closely observe the fascinating volcanic activity that has shaped the Galapagos Islands over time.
To get there, you can take a collective water taxi ($1 each way) from the boardwalk to Playa de los Alemanes. If you continue to the crevasses, it is mandatory to go with a guide, and you will have to pay another $10. From there, after a refreshing swim in Las Grietas, you can see beautiful views of Puerto Ayora.
PLAYA EL GARRAPATERO (AND THE SWING AT THE END OF THE WORLD)
It is known for its white sand and crystal clear water, ideal for swimming, snorkeling and relaxing. In addition, the natural environment around the beach is perfect for hiking and observing the local flora and fauna.
The "Swing at the End of the World" is a famous attraction on this beach. It is a swing strategically placed on a cliff overlooking the ocean. It is a very popular place to take photographs due to its picturesque location and "edge of the world" feeling. Many visitors enjoy swinging on the swing while taking in the spectacular views of the ocean.
DRAGON HILL
Another place to visit, Cerro Dragón, located at the westernmost end of the island, makes dry disembarkation easy on a cement dock.
The road leads to a white sand beach and then continues cross country.
Here the visitor will be rewarded by the presence of wading birds in a hyper-saline lagoon, and inside, a nesting group of land iguanas.
A path through cacti and palo santo trees on a hill from where you have a great view.
Excursions in Santa Cruz
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These are the excursions you can book from Santa Cruz:
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North Seymour Island
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Bartholomew Island
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Bay Tour
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Santa Fe Island
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Pinzón Island
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South Plaza Island
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Chinese Hat Island
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Floreana Island
NORTH SEYMOUR
North Seymour Island, a natural treasure in the Galapagos, dazzles with its diverse wildlife. Here, majestic frigates, pikemen ofPlayful blue paws and sea lions share the stage with land and marine iguanas, creating a unique spectacle for visitors. Its trails wind between bird nests and offer the opportunity to delve into wildlife while its crystal-clear waters invite you to dive and explore an underwater world full of color and life. This paradisiacal corner is an essential refuge for those seeking the natural magic of the Galapagos.
BARTHOLOMEW
To get to Bartolomé from Santa Cruz, there is generally a boat trip that can last around two hours, depending on maritime conditions and the type of boat used. During the trip, you might have the opportunity to see spectacular marine life, possibly including dolphins playing in the waters.
When you arrive at Bartolomé Island, you will find an impressive volcanic landscape and surprising biodiversity. Here, you can hike to the lookout for incredible panoramic views and snorkel in Sullivan Bay. SomeThe island's highlights include:
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Pinnacle Rock: This is one of the most iconic rock formations in the Galapagos and a favorite photo spot. Its distinctive shape has become a symbol of the islands.
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White sand beach: Bartolomé has a beautiful white sand beach and crystal clear waters where you can swim, snorkel or simply enjoy the scenery.
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Lookout: A hike to Bartholomew's Lookout offers a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding landscape, including Pinnacle Rock and the spectacular geological formations.
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Unique wildlife: You may have the opportunity to see Galapagos penguins, sea turtles, marine iguanas, and a variety of native birds during your visit.
This excursion offers the opportunity to explore the natural beauty and unique biodiversity of the Galapagos, as well as enjoy water activities and take in stunning landscapes. It is an unforgettable experience that allows you to immerse yourself in the fascinating nature of this archipelago.
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BAY TOUR
The Bahia tour that includes Las Grietas, Punta Estrada, the Shark Channel and Playa de los Perros is a complete experience that allows you to explore a variety of stunning landscapes and natural environments around Santa Cruz Island in the Galapagos.
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Las Grietas: This unique geological formation is a series of narrow fissures with crystal clear waters between rocky cliffs. It is an excellent place to swim, snorkel and explore the fascinating natural landscape.
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Punta Estrada: It is a quiet and beautiful coastal area with white sand beaches and turquoise waters. It is an ideal place to walk, relax and enjoy the serenity of the surroundings.
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Shark Channel: This channel, also known as the "Shark Channel", is a narrow body of water between the Santa Cruz and Baltra islands. It offers the opportunity to observe reef sharks and other marine species in their natural habitat. The crystal clear waters and marine biodiversity make this place a point of interest for lovers of snorkeling and diving.
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Playa de los Perros: A small, beautiful beach on the northeast coast of Santa Cruz, known for its tranquility and the occasional presence of sea lions resting on the sand or playing in the nearby waters.
Santa Fe Island:
It stands out for its dense vegetation, giant cacti and the presence of the unique land iguanas of the Galapagos.
Pinzón Island:
Known for its unique geology and the presence of the land iguana, one of the oldest species in the Galapagos.
Plaz Islandto South:
It offers a wealth of wildlife, including land iguanas, sea lions, cacti and seabirds.
Chinese Hat Island:
Named for its shape that resembles a Chinese hat. Here, you can see penguins, marine iguanas and white sand beaches.
Floreana Island:
Known for its intriguing history, including Post Office Bay, home to a mail barrel used by sailors in the past.
Each island offers something unique in terms of scenery, wildlife and opportunities for activities such as hiking, snorkelling and bird watching. These excursions will give you a diverse and rich insight into the amazing biodiversity and natural beauty of the Galapagos Islands.
Diving in Santa Cruz
Diving from Santa Cruz offers several exceptional dive spots, each with its own beauty and unique marine life. Some of the most notable dive spots include:
Gordon Rocks:
It is one of the most popular dive sites in the Galapagos. Known for its strong currents, it is ideal for experienced divers. Here it is common to spot hammerhead sharks, rays, sea turtles and a variety of tropical fish.
North Seymour:
This dive site is known for its rich marine life, especially sharks, rays, turtles and a variety of fish. It is a good place for divers of all levels.
Floreana:
It offers a unique combination of gentle currents and colorful marine life. Here you could see rays, turtles, reef sharks and schools of tropical fish.
Daphne:
It is a diving site that stands out for its rock formations and underwater cliffs, home to whitetip and blacktip sharks, rays, turtles and tropical fish.
Pinzón Island
Known for its shark population, especially whitetip sharks, and a great diversity of marine life, including rays, turtles and reef fish.
Mosquera Islet:
Known for its abundant marine life, this place offers the opportunity to dive with sea lions, see reef sharks, turtles and tropical fish.
Punta Carrion:
An ideal diving site for beginners due to its calmer waters. Here you can see a wide variety of tropical fish, rays and perhaps reef sharks.
These dive spots offer different experiences and levels of difficulty, some requiring experienced divers due to variable currents and conditions. It is always advisable to dive with certified guides who know the area well and are familiar with local conditions to ensure a safe and exciting experience. The waters of the Galapagos are famous for their biodiversity and unique diving opportunities, making them a sought-after destination for diving enthusiasts.
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Excursions in Santa Cruz
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