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6 Days: Exploring Santa Cruz (Budget-Friendly Solo Adventure)

6 Days: Exploring Santa Cruz (Budget-Friendly Solo Adventure)

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6 Days

From

~~$1710~~

$1530

6 Days: Exploring Santa Cruz (Budget-Friendly Solo Adventure)

6 Days Starting and ending in Baltra Island, Ecuador

Visiting: Puerto Ayora, Tortuga Bay, Las Grietas, Pinzón Island

Tour operator:

Ecuador Galapagos Travels

Tour code:

6DESCBFSA

Group Type:

Independent

Guide Type:

Partially Guided

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

18-70

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians, Vegans, Meat

Tour operated in:

English , Spanish

From:

$1710

$1530 (USD) Operator discount: -$100 The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$81 -11%

Tour Overview

Immerse yourself in the unparalleled natural wonder of the Galapagos Islands, where pristine beauty reigns supreme. This is an extraordinary journey, where you'll encounter endemic wildlife species found nowhere else on Earth, from the iconic giant tortoises to the playful blue-footed boobies. As you explore this remote archipelago, you'll be captivated by the breathtaking landscapes that stretch from rugged volcanic terrain to crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life. It's an unforgettable experience that promises to leave an indelible mark on your soul, a testament to the marvels of our planet's unique ecosystems.

Highlights

INTI NAN EQUATOR-LINE MUSEUM
PULULAHUA INHABITED CRATER VIEWPOINT
MINDO CLOUD FOREST RESERVE
CHOCOLATE FACTORY
WALK THROUGH WATERFALLS
ORGANIC FAIR-TRADE COFFEE TASTING
CUICOCHA CRATER LAKE
OTAVALO INDIGENOUS MARKET
PAPALLACTA HOT SPRINGS RESORT
COTOPAXI TALLEST ACTIVE VOLCANO

Places You'll See

6 Days: Exploring Santa Cruz (Budget-Friendly Solo Adventure)

Itinerary

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Day 1 : Arrival In Santa Cruz - Highlands - Cdrs

Location: Galápagos Ecologic Airport

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: No Meals

Arrive at Baltra Airport and take a transfer. You will have to pay an entrance fee for the Galapagos National Park and your luggage will be inspected.

This morning, Your private guide will pick you up from the hotel to explore the beauty of Santa Cruz.

You will start by visiting the Charles Darwin Station, where scientists from all over the world meet and work together on environmental projects such as water analysis, animal protection, effects of tourism on nature, etc., and the most famous place to see Giant Tortoises in the Galapagos where the animals are raised before being released into the wild. The actual name of the tortoise area here is the “Fausto Llerena” Breeding Center, named after the Galapagos National Park ranger who cared for Lonesome George. This is the best place in the Galapagos to view numerous different species and see how their tortoiseshell shapes have evolved differently to match the terrain and vegetation of the islands they are native to.

Then, you will continue toward Santa Cruz highlands where you will be amazed to see giant tortoises in the wild (in their natural habitat) at a private farm. You will enjoy a delicious lunch before returning to Puerto Ayora.

Day 2 : Kayaking Tortuga - Free Afternoon

Location: Puerto Ayora, Tortuga Bay

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

We have reserved kayaks for you at Tortuga Bay. A 30-minute boat ride will lead you to Tortuga Bay, one of the most beautiful beaches in the Galapagos. When you are done kayaking, you may stay for sunbathing or snorkeling.

Afternoon leisure!

Day 3 : Bay Tour - Free Afternoon

Location: Puerto Ayora, Las Grietas

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

After a delicious breakfast, you will be taken on a small boat to visit exotic places along the bay of Santa Cruz.

You will arrive at the small islet called La Lobería named for the great colony of sea lions where you can snorkel around sea lions and tropical fish displaying a dazzling show beneath the surface against interesting underwater formations.

Afterward, at the Shark Channel, you may spot harmless white-tip sharks and blue footed boobies, you’ll come upon the Canal del Amor where you may find sea turtles and many tropical fish varieties.

Taking a 10-minute walk you’ll see marine iguanas in their natural habitat and have plenty of opportunities to take pictures.

Lastly, you will visit Las Grietas, which are two large cliffs separate filled with freshwater towards the top of the surface and salt water below.

In the afternoon you will return to the dock and return to your hotel, where you will spend the rest of the afternoon strolling and exploring Puerto Ayora on your own.

Day 4 : Pinzon And Playa La Fe

Location: Puerto Ayora, Pinzón Island

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

After a delicious breakfast, you will embark on a fantastic adventure to Pinzón Island and La Fe.

You will arrive at Pinzón, the first snorkel stop of the day, after disembarking at Penguin Bay, you will snorkel area with clear blue waters and much marine life. This site gives you a great chance to see many

Sea lions

Turtles

Reef sharks

Rays

Fish

Penguins

As the tour is run by fishermen there is a short fishing time, and any fish caught are served as fresh sashimi!

Another 30-minute ride will bring you to La Fé, a beautiful white sand beach where you will disembark and swim from the beach or just relax in the sun; lunch will be served on board; this is also the last snorkel site of the day where you can see sea lions, turtles, reef fish, rays and reef sharks as well!

Your day will finish back in Puerto Ayora, for a well-earned rest.

Day 5 : Explore Puerto Ayora On Your Own

Location: Puerto Ayora

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

With no planned activities today, you're free to enjoy the island's beauty at your own pace.

Lay back and enjoy the hotel amenities or discover the following activities:

Hike to Tortuga Bay

Go for a stroll in the peaceful town of Puerto Ayora

Shop for souvenirs

Explore hidden coves

Today is for enjoying the beauty of the Galapagos, taking lots of beautiful photos, and slowing down the pace to truly appreciate island life.

Day 6 : Transfer To Baltra Airport For Departure Flight

Location: Puerto Ayora, Galápagos Ecologic Airport

Meals Included: Breakfast

After this final visit, you will be transferred to the Baltra airport in time for your flight back home.

What's Included

Accommodation

5 nights accommodation
Fully Guided

English-speaking guides
Meals

Meals according to the itinerary
Transport

Transfers according to the itinerary

What's Not Included

Additional Services

Galapagos Migration Card ($20 per person) - Galapagos National Park entrance fee ($100 per person)
Airport Transfers at Destination

International flights - Domestic flights
Insurance

Travel Insurance
Meals

Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
Optional

Optional Activities/Excursions

Videos

Check out our Q&As

Can you assist with pre or post tour accommodation?

Yes, we can arrange any tour or additional service in Ecuador. (Except for activities regulated by low)
What is the maximum group size?

The maximum group size is 16 people
Will passengers from another country be participating in the tour?

If there is such a probability
What happens if a group doesn’t make its minimum required number of passengers?

For this trip a minimum of 1 passengers is required but you need to pay an extra or you can choose share a room with another passenger.
Is the tour coach air conditioned?

Yes, it is.

Company Instant Book

We need to check on the availabilities first
Will I know the names and details of all the accommodation before I depart?

Yes, of course, at the time of the confirmation of the services you will know the name of the hotels that you will have throughout your trip.
Are airport transfers included in this tour?

Yes, the transfers are included (upon request of our clients).
Are flights included in this tour?

No, flights are not included in our rates. You can book on your own or request a quote from us.
Is there a limit to luggage that can be brought on the tour?

It depends on the amount of luggage your international flight permits.
Do you require a visa for this holiday?

Visa is not required to enter Ecuador.
Is free Wi-Fi available in the accommodation used?

Ecuador is a small country, in some Andean accommodations, there is no Wi-Fi, and in some others, the connection is not good. Only in the big cities, there is a good Wi-Fi connection.
Are all entrance fees included in the price?

Yes, the entrance fees indicated in the itinerary are included.
What currencies are required for this tour?

The official currency in Ecuador is the US dollar.
Is there any free time to explore places during the tour?

Yes, there is some free time to enjoy the places to visit.
Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

Yes, our guides speak English (we also have guides in other languages upon request.)
Are all the relevant entry visa’s included in the price of the tour?

The visa is not included in the services
Is there a supplement for solo travellers?

Yes, there is a Supplement, it depends on the hotels and services. Request to our travel advisor this information.
What is the tipping policy?

Tips are well regarded in the country, and depend on the degree of customer satisfaction.
What is the fitness level required to do this tour?

Very good physical condition is required, since you will be doing various activities that require you to be fit
Will there be an escort accompanying this tour?

The guide that will be with you in the different activities in the Galápagos Islands, according to the itinerary
What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

We can arrange it if you do it before the time limit of our cancellation policies, subject to availability.
Can I join the tour once it has departed?

No, it is not possible
Am I contributing to any charity by booking the tour?

For the past 12 years, Responsible Travel has specialized in creating wonderful memories with our professional and trustworthy providers in every corner of Ecuador. We also collaborate with native communities and local suppliers to ensure that the incoming that comes through responsible travel generates profits for minorities.I am delighted that you are planning to spend your holidays in Ecuador;
What policies are in place for Covid-19?

At your arrival, you must present a COVID-19 vaccinations certificate with at least two doses completed at least 14 days before arrival. This is the only vaccine the government asks as a requirement to enter the territory.
Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

We operate a “single share” only in cruises options.
What documents will I receive before I travel?

You will receive an Invoice detailing our terms and conditions. a voucher of services that included all the reserved services.
How long has the tour company been trading?

For the past 12 years, we have been operating Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands and recently South America destinations.

Reviews from Travellers on this Tour

Mathew United States of America

6 Days: Exploring Santa Cruz (Budget-Friendly Solo Adventure)

11-Mar-2024

We had the most amazing trip to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands - a once-in-a-lifetime experience. From the initial interaction and Alvaro all the way through to our last day - everything was flawlessly planned and executed. Alvaro put together the perfect itinerary for us, and was always available during the course of the trip, and managed to change our plans at the last minute during our trip. All of our guides, drivers, tour operators, etc. were excellent - special mentions to Chris and Alejandro! Ecuador is a spectacular place to visit. I would highly recommend a trip - from the volcanos, cloud rainforest, jungle, Galapagos Islands, and the wonderful people. Thanks again Alvaro for planning such an epic visit!

Jessica United States of America

6 Days: Exploring Santa Cruz (Budget-Friendly Solo Adventure)

24-Sep-2023

Alvaro helped me and my husband plan our honeymoon trip to Ecuador and it was amazing! Our guides were very kind and knowledgeable. We learned not only about the area and history but also about current events and daily life. The food was delicious and healthy. In the Galapagos, we learned about wildlife and had many up-close experiences with the animals. We felt very welcomed everywhere we went, and we can’t wait to come back for another adventure in Ecuador!

Catherine United States of America

6 Days: Exploring Santa Cruz (Budget-Friendly Solo Adventure)

26-Dec-2023

Had an amazing time in Ecuador and visited the Galapagos. Alvaro planned an amazing itinerary for us, and we had a great balance of activities and rest.

Dates & Availability

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Apr
2024 May
2024 Jun
2024 Jul
2024 Aug
2024 Sep
2024 Oct
2024 Nov
2024 Dec
2024 Jan
2025 Feb
2025 Mar
2025

Friday - Wednesday

Apr 26, 2024 - May 01, 2024

~~$1710~~ $1530 (USD)

Operator discount: -$100 (USD)