Perfect for first-time visitors · Santa Cruz

Galapagos Essentials

5 Days / 4 NightsLand-BasedPrice from USD 875

Experience the highlights of Santa Cruz through giant tortoises, iconic island tours, beautiful beaches and unforgettable wildlife.

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Trip overview

Santa Cruz highlights in five days

A balanced land-based itinerary combining iconic wildlife, snorkeling, beaches and two unforgettable day tours. The base price includes comfortable 3-star accommodation; 4- and 5-star upgrades can be requested.

Duration5 Days / 4 Nights
IslandSanta Cruz
Travel StyleLand-Based
Accommodation4 Hotel Nights
Day by day

Your Galapagos Essentials adventure

Tour schedules may be adjusted because of weather, sea conditions, availability or Galapagos National Park regulations.

DAY1
Santa Cruz

Arrival & Santa Cruz Highlands

Arrive at Baltra Airport and continue to the Itabaca Channel. Visit the Santa Cruz Highlands, observe giant tortoises and explore lava tunnels when time permits before hotel check-in in Puerto Ayora.

DAY2
Santa Fe or Pinzon

Full-Day Snorkeling Excursion

Choose Santa Fe Island or Pinzon Island for a full-day snorkeling adventure, normally operating from approximately 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

DAY3
Bartolome or North Seymour

Signature Island Day Tour

Choose one of Galapagos' most iconic full-day excursions: Bartolome Island or North Seymour Island. Typical operating hours are 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

DAY4
Santa Cruz

Tortuga Bay & Bay Tour

Enjoy a free morning at Tortuga Bay. In the afternoon, join a Bay Tour that may include La Loberia, Canal del Amor, Playa de los Perros, snorkeling and volcanic formations.

DAY5
Santa Cruz → Baltra

Departure

Transfer from Puerto Ayora to the Itabaca Channel and continue to Baltra Airport, marking the end of your Galapagos Essentials journey.

Practical details

What's included

Included

  • 4 hotel nights
  • Itabaca Channel transfers
  • Santa Cruz Highlands
  • Giant tortoises
  • Santa Fe or Pinzon tour
  • Bartolome or North Seymour
  • Bay Tour
  • Naturalist guides
  • Snorkeling equipment
  • Specified lunches and snacks
  • Personal travel assistance

Not included

  • Mainland Ecuador flights
  • National Park entrance fee
  • Transit Control Card
  • Baltra airport bus
  • Water taxis
  • Meals not mentioned
  • Optional kayaking
  • Personal expenses
  • Tips
  • Travel insurance
Ready to explore?

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