GALAPAGOS ISLANDS · SANTA CRUZ
Santa Cruz Island.
Santa Cruz is the central hub, with Puerto Ayora, the largest town, the Charles Darwin Research Station and highland reserves where wild giant tortoises roam.
Santa Cruz Island Galapagos — Reference image only.
01 / THE ISLAND
The heart of the archipelago
Santa Cruz sits in the middle of the islands and is the hub for most travelers. Puerto Ayora is the largest town, with hotels, restaurants and the Charles Darwin Research Station. Baltra airport is just across the Itabaca Channel to the north.
The green highlands are where giant tortoises roam freely in pastures and forest, especially in the wetter months. Lava tunnels, Tortuga Bay’s long beach and the mangroves of Black Turtle Cove add variety. Many cruises include a Santa Cruz highlands visit, and land-based trips use Puerto Ayora as their base.
02 / VISITOR SITES
Visitor sites on Santa Cruz
| Site | Type of visit | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Highlands reserves | Walk | Wild giant tortoises |
| Charles Darwin Research Station | Town visit | Tortoise breeding, research |
| Tortuga Bay | Beach walk | Marine iguanas, white sand |
| Black Turtle Cove | Panga ride | Mangroves, turtles, rays, juvenile sharks |
| Dragon Hill | Dry landing | Land iguanas, lagoon |
03 / WILDLIFE
Wildlife to look for on Santa Cruz
Land iguanas
Marine iguanas
Darwin’s finches
04 / PRACTICAL
Practical notes
Inhabited
Yes, Puerto Ayora
How to visit
By cruise on central routes, or day tours from nearby towns
Guide
Visitor sites are led by park-accredited naturalist guides.
06 / FAQ
Santa Cruz Island, Galapagos: questions
Where do I see giant tortoises?
In the Santa Cruz highlands, where they roam wild.
Is Santa Cruz a good base for land trips?
Yes, Puerto Ayora is the main base for island hopping.
Which cruises visit Santa Cruz?
Itineraries vary by boat. Email hola@galapagosislands.cruises and we list the boats that include Santa Cruz on your dates.
SANTA CRUZ
Want Santa Cruz on your route?
Email hola@galapagosislands.cruises. We find the boats whose itineraries include Santa Cruz on your dates.
Galapagos is unlike anywhere else on Earth: wildlife that does not run from you, islands still shaped by volcanoes, and a park that limits every visit. Tell us how you like to travel and we will match you with the right boat.