Exploring Santa Cruz island
Santa Cruz Highlands
You can book this tour for any day you’re staying on Santa Cruz island, with a pick-up from your hotel or, purposefully reserve it for the day you arrive on the island, as a part of the transfer from Baltra airport to your accommodation. This second option is very popular, as guests must cross the highlands on their way from the airport to town. So, why not make the best of your first day on Santa Cruz and book this tour in addition to your transfer? To sustain you, we provide a delicious hot lunch and, should it be raining, waterproof clothing!
Your first stop will be at ‘Los Gemelos’, collapsed twin craters formed when the island was still an active volcano. In this area you will see endemic Salesia forest (different species and varieties), several Finch species and the Galapagos Dove (Zenaida galapagoensis). If luck is with you, the bright red Vermilion Flycatcher (Pyrocephalus nanus) might also be present.
Your second stop will be at one of the two ranches bordering the National Park Tortoise Reserve, where you will meet the impressive Giants of Galapagos (Chelonoidis porteri) in their natural habitat - an unforgettable moment! The tortoises on the ranches are not fenced in, just lured to the local pastures by the puddles of muddy water in which they relax - much as you will be lured by the beautiful and sheltered wooden viewing terraces on offer (serving delicious lunches, snacks, and coffee!)
Before leaving, we will take you deep into the now dormant subterranean lava tubes located beneath the ranchland, for an amazing trip through a part of the island’s hidden history.
Highlights
- Galapagos Giant Tortoises
- Scalesia Forest
- Twin Craters
- Finches
- Galapagos Dove
- Vermilion Flycatcher
- Lava Tunnels
Activity
The tour provides for a flexibly scheduled, private, half-day excursion (taking approx. 4-5 hours) and transportation.
The tour includes a bilingual naturalist guide of the National Park Galapagos, and the entrance fee to the ranch (inc. lunch).