15 Free Things To Do in Santa Cruz, Galapagos
Explore Without a Guide
- Last Updated: December 9, 2024
Santa Cruz is the primary island of the Galapagos Archipelago, a destination renowned for its high prices. To ensure your budget stays intact, I have compiled a list of 15 free things to do in Santa Cruz.
Please note that while the majority of these activities are indeed free, some may come with minimal costs, such as the transportation to reach them, such as renting a bicycle or taking a shared taxi. In such cases, expenses can range from as little as $5 per person if the taxi is full.
I have personally experienced all of the activities listed and have included detailed articles for your reference. So, if you’re looking for budget-friendly options for your next trip to Santa Cruz, look no further!
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Free Things To Do in Santa Cruz
General Info
Planning a trip to Santa Cruz in the Galapagos? Here are a few things you should keep in mind:
- Most activities require a guided tour with a naturalist guide.
- Tour prices are standardized across agencies, but you may be able to negotiate if booking multiple tours.
- Many beaches have specific opening and closing times for turtle nesting reasons.
- Book your tours in advance to secure a spot on the best ones.
- Don’t forget seasickness medication for water-based tours.
- Apply strong sunscreen, as the equatorial sun can be intense.
- Pack mosquito repellent, especially at sunset when horseflies are active.
- Drone use is strictly regulated and requires a special permit from the National Park.
- Rentals for cars, motorcycles, and other vehicles are not available – transportation must be by taxi, bus, boat, bicycle, or on foot.
- Respect the wildlife by avoiding physical contact and touching the animals.
For more information on free activities in Santa Cruz and other official details, visit the Galapagos Conservancy’s website for Santa Cruz Island.
Free Things To Do in
Santa Cruz, Galapagos
1. Charles Darwin Research Station
Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz Island is dedicated to preserving the unique species of the Galapagos. Scientists at the station conduct various studies and environmental initiatives to protect wildlife. If you’re passionate about preservation, you can help by volunteering or contributing to research efforts. Join the efforts to keep this paradise thriving.
In addition to the research efforts, the station features a giant tortoise breeding center, which can be toured for just $10 USD, a rare exception to the list of free things to do in Santa Cruz but well worth the experience.
At the station, you will also have the chance to see the embalmed remains of Lonesome George, the oldest known giant tortoise of his species who passed away in 2012. Furthermore, you can delve into the endemic flora of the Galápagos, learn about Charles Darwin, and take advantage of amenities like a cafeteria, public library, and restrooms.
In my opinion, the Charles Darwin Research Station should be at the top of your list of free things to do in Santa Cruz. With a mix of culture, history, and nature just a short walk from downtown, it’s a must-visit for anyone in the area.
View the full blog post here: CHARLES DARWIN RESEARCH STATION
2. Nymphs Lagoon
The Nymphs Lagoon in Santa Cruz is a stunning mangrove-filled lagoon just around the corner from the city center of Puerto Ayora. It’s a great pit stop on your way to Tortuga Bay beach, especially since it’s free and perfect for families.
Getting to the Nymphs Lagoon, or Laguna de Las Ninfas, is easy – you can take a taxi, bike, or even walk. I’d recommend walking since it’s located right in the city’s heart. Just keep in mind that swimming, fishing, kayaking, and disturbing the wildlife around the lagoon are strictly prohibited.
View the full blog post here: NYMPHS LAGOON IN SANTA CRUZ
3. Station Beach
The Charles Darwin Research Station complex is home to two main beaches, one of which is Station Beach. Both beaches are characterized by rocks and limited sand near the water. With few visitors, these beaches provide a peaceful location to spend the day, and you can conveniently park your bike at the entrance.
While at Station Beach, keep an eye out for marine iguanas that might blend in with the rocks. It’s a great spot for swimming and snorkeling and is one of the only nearby options for a quick dip on a hot day, apart from Alemanes Beach on the other side of town.
Visiting Station Beach is free and provides the perfect refreshment after exploring the research station.
View the full blog post here: CHARLES DARWIN RESEARCH STATION
Everything You Can Do in
Santa Cruz Island
4. Santa Cruz's Downtown
Stroll around Puerto Ayora, the capital of Santa Cruz Island, known as the most touristy of the three main islands. You’ll find plenty of restaurants, bars, cafes, and trendy shops to explore.
Impress yourself with the lively nightlife and diverse food and drink options, including international cuisine and craft beers. Don’t forget to visit the bustling fish market, where pelicans and sea lions often come for a snack and check out the famous statue of a giant tortoise.
The area around the dock also hosts events and offers stunning views of golden rays and reef sharks during the day. If you’re searching for free things to do in Santa Cruz, take some time to explore Puerto Ayora! You won’t regret it!
5. La Ratonera Beach
Discover La Ratonera Beach, a hidden treasure on the grounds of the Charles Darwin Research Center. Despite its remote location, it’s famous for its fantastic surfing waves, thanks to its proximity to the open sea.
Escape the crowds and cool off after exploring the Research Center at this tranquil beach. With its rocky shoreline and limited sand, La Ratonera offers a one-of-a-kind and peaceful escape. While sunbathing, keep an eye out for marine iguanas blending in with the rocks. And the best part? It’s free!
View the full blog post here: CHARLES DARWIN RESEARCH STATION
6. Tortuga Bay Beach
Tortuga Bay beach is hands down my favorite beach in the Galapagos. The beach got its name because it’s a favorite spot for sea turtles to come and lay their eggs.
This stunning beach with white sand and crystal-clear water is a haven for marine iguanas and baby reef sharks. It’s the perfect place to surf, sunbathe, kayak, or relax and unwind.
It’s located about 3 km southwest of Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz island and is comprised of two beaches: Playa Brava, with its waves, and Playa Mansa, a smaller and calmer beach. Trust me, you won’t want to miss out on visiting this paradise.
View the full blog post here: TORTUGA BAY BEACH IN SANTA CRUZ
7. Hike to Media Luna, Puntudo, and Cerro Crooker Hill
This is probably the only proper wild hike on Santa Cruz island that doesn’t necessitate a tour.
To start your hike, take a taxi to Bellavista, which is located a short distance from Puerto Ayora. The hike to Cerro Crooker hill’s base is a challenging 8 km trek that takes approximately 3 hours each way.
Along the way, you will be rewarded with stunning views of the island’s volcanic hills and its lush miconia vegetation. Be sure to keep to the trail, as straying from it can disturb bird nests and lead to getting lost. Don’t miss the opportunity to spot the Galapagos Petrel, which nests on these mountains.
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8. Love Channel
The Love Channel, also known as Canal del Amor, is a gorgeous turquoise channel surrounded by lava walls and one of the best free things to do in Santa Cruz. A small fee of 1$ USD is required for a taxi-boat ride to reach this stunning location.
It is often overlooked by those visiting the popular Las Grietas, so be sure to venture here independently or opt for the famous Bay Tour or Tour de Bahia.
Although swimming is now prohibited, the Love Channel remains a breathtaking sight to behold and offers an ideal spot for taking photos and observing shorebirds and reef sharks from the wooden viewpoint.
The name Love Channel stems from its past as a romantic destination for couples, and it’s undoubtedly a beautiful place to appreciate today.
View the full blog post here: BAY TOUR IN SANTA CRUZ
To book this tour: Check the local company Galapagos Dreams, or book it online on Viator here: Half Day Bay Tour in Santa Cruz Island
9. Playa de Los Alemanes Beach
Playa de Los Alemanes, also known as Germans Beach, is located next to the popular Las Grietas and offers a peaceful retreat for families. Access to this beach can be obtained by a 1$ USD water taxi ride from the main port of Puerto Ayora.
It’s best to visit during low tide, as the sand tends to disappear during high tide. The water here is typically calm and shallow, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling.
If you’re lucky, your hotel may be in close proximity, allowing you to visit the beach at your leisure. If not, consider visiting as part of the Bay Tour and requesting additional time on the beach, followed by a separate water taxi ride back to the main port.
View the full blog post here: BAY TOUR IN SANTA CRUZ
To book this tour: Check the local company Galapagos Dream’s website, or book it online on Viator here: Half Day Bay Tour in Santa Cruz Island
10. Surf in Santa Cruz
While San Cristóbal Island may be more renowned among surfers compared to Santa Cruz Island, there are still numerous breathtaking surfing spots available here. Tortuga Bay, La Ratonera Beach, Tres Picos, Playa el Bazan Beach, and Piedra Ahogada can be easily reached on foot. Ola Escondida, Punta Gallina, and Punta Nuñez, can only be accessed by boat.
If you’re an experienced surfer with your own board, surfing at these spots won’t cost you a thing. However, if you don’t have a board, renting one isn’t too expensive and is a necessary expense.
11. Pit Craters "Los Gemelos"
At these unique locations, you will come across two valley-like pits covered in vegetation, which are the result of the collapse of ancient lava tunnels. Over time, as the lava cooled and contracted, it created unstable structures that eventually caved in, allowing vegetation to take over.
Visiting these formations can be done for free if you opt to explore on your own using a bike or by foot. However, this activity is typically included in a tour known as “The Highlands Tour” or “Tour Parte Alta”. This tour not only takes you to the Pit Craters “Los Gemelos”, but also to the Lava Tunnels and the Giant Tortoise Reserve “El Chato” or “Las Primicias”. The tour is typically conducted by bus.
View the full blog post here: HIGHLANDS TOUR IN SANTA CRUZ
To book this tour: Check the local company Galapagos Dreams’s website, or book it online on Viator here: The Giant Tortoise Experience | Lava Tubes + Los Gemelos
12. Lava Tunnels
At the Lava Tunnels, you will gain a deeper understanding of how the island was formed and witness various landscapes. These tunnels formed when lava flowed from a volcano and cooled, creating a solid outer shell when it came into contact with oxygen. Today, you can walk inside this outer shell structure.
Visiting the Lava Tunnels on your own by bike or foot will cost you a minimal fee of 3-5$ USD, which includes entry to the Tortoise Ranch. However, it is typically included in the “Highlands Tour” or “Tour Parte Alta,” which takes you to not only the Lava Tunnels but also the Pit Craters “Los Gemelos” and the Giant Tortoise Reserve “El Chato” or “Las Primicias.” The tour is conducted by bus.
View the full blog post here: HIGHLANDS TOUR IN SANTA CRUZ
To book this tour: Check the local company Galápagos Dreams, or book it online on Viator here: The Giant Tortoise Experience | Lava Tubes + Los Gemelos
13. Giant Tortoise Reserves of "El Chato" or "Las Primícias"
“Las Primícias” and “El Chato” Giant Tortoise Reserves are super popular tourist hangouts for families, and as a result, they can get really busy with visitors. Unlike the Charles Darwin Foundation, this is a privately-owned ranch where visitors can observe giant tortoises roaming freely.
There is a restaurant, gift shop, and small museum showcasing ancient giant tortoise shells on the premises. Additionally, there is a photo opportunity where visitors can go inside a giant shell and take a picture with the words “I <3 Las Primícias” as a backdrop.
To visit on your own, you’ll need to pay a fee of 3-5$ USD, which includes access to the lava tunnels. However, this attraction is often included in a tour called “The Highlands Tour” or “Tour Parte Alta,” which takes visitors to the Pit Craters “Los Gemelos,” the Lava Tunnels, and “Las Primícias.”
View the full blog post here: HIGHLANDS TOUR IN SANTA CRUZ
To book this tour: Check the local company Galapagos Dreams, or book it online on Viator here: The Giant Tortoise Experience | Lava Tubes + Los Gemelos
14. El Garrapatero Beach
If you’re looking for a change of scenery from Tortuga Bay, El Garrapatero is another beach option on Santa Cruz island. With its white sand and adjacent lagoon, it’s a haven for flamingos and a great place to swim, kayak, sunbathe and relax.
Located 20 km northeast of Puerto Ayora, getting to El Garrapatero requires a taxi ride followed by a short walk. The beach is free to access, with the only cost being the taxi ride, which is estimated at around 35$ USD (2022 prices) and can be split among four people, making it a budget-friendly choice.
View the full blog post here: EL GARRAPATERO BEACH IN SANTA CRUZ
15. Las Grietas
Las Grietas, also known as “The Rifts/Crevasses,” is a water-filled canyon-like structure formed from two cliffs separated by a fissure filled with ocean water. Visitors can swim and snorkel in the area, which has breathtaking underwater formations. Don’t forget to bring your snorkel gear!
Please note that Las Grietas tends to be crowded, and there is now a minimum entrance fee of 10$ USD, even if you’re not part of a tour. This recent addition to the cost of visiting reflects the trend across the archipelago, where free things to do in Santa Cruz, San Cristóbal, and Isabela are becoming harder to come by.
If you opt for a tour, the most popular one is the “Bay Tour” or “Tour de Bahia,” which includes stops at the Love Channel, Playa de Los Perros beach, and Las Tintoreras baby reef-shark pools.
View the full blog post here: BAY TOUR IN SANTA CRUZ
To book this tour: Check the local company Galapagos Dream’s website, or book it online on Viator here: Half Day Bay Tour in Santa Cruz Island
Free Things To Do in Santa Cruz
Where to Stay
Santa Cruz Island in the Galapagos has a variety of accommodation options to choose from, and we’ve narrowed down the top three choices for you.
For the ultimate luxury getaway, Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel offers a range of amenities, including an outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, and hot tub. Hotel Acacia is a comfortable and serene environment to unwind in the heart of Puerto Ayora, with lush gardens, a shared lounge, and a terrace. And Suites Hermosas offers two fully furnished apartments with breathtaking views and fully equipped kitchens.
To learn more about these options and other accommodation choices, check out the full article:
All The Articles About The Galapagos
San Cristobal Island – The easternmost island of the Galapagos, the “Isla Bonita”
Santa Cruz Island – The island with the best tourism infrastructure.
Isabela Island – The most adventurous and less explored island of the main three.
