Santa Cruz - Discovering Ecuador

Travelling to Santa Cruz

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Santa Cruz, a pretty good destination in Ecuador (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Santa Cruz and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Santa Cruz, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Ecuador, here's everything to know about Santa Cruz for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is one of the islands that make up the Galapagos archipelago located in Ecuador. It is the second largest island after Isabela and has a population of around 12,000 people. The island is known for its unique wildlife such as the famous Galapagos tortoise and the elusive Galapagos rail. It also has a diverse landscape ranging from lush highland forests to arid coastal deserts. Santa Cruz is a popular destination for tourists due to its attractions such as the Charles Darwin Research Station and the Tortuga Bay beach. The island can be reached by boat or by plane from the mainland.

What to visit in Santa Cruz

Sure, here are some popular tourist attractions in Santa Cruz, Ecuador: 1. Tortuga Bay: Tortuga Bay is renowned for its beautiful shorelines with crystal-clear waters, beautiful white-sands, and terrific surfing. It is a great spot for sunbathing and swimming, and it is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including the famous tortoises.
2. Charles Darwin Research Station: The Charles Darwin Research Station is a biological research station located on the edge of Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz Island. It is dedicated to studying the Galapagos Islands' unique ecosystem, wildlife, and natural habitats. Visitors can observe some of the endangered land animals and learn more about conservation efforts.
3. El Chato Tortoise Reserve: El Chato Tortoise Reserve is a great place to see giant tortoises in their natural habitat. Visitors can hike on the reserve's trails for an hour or two, explore lava tunnels, enjoy scenic views of lush forest, and also see other wildlife like tree finches and Darwin's finches.
4. Las Grietas: Las Grietas is a unique lagoon with clear blue water, surrounded by volcanic walls. It is located between the cliffs of the bay and can only be reached by boat or hiking. Visitors can swim or snorkel in the saltwater lagoon, and spot marine life like fish, sea urchins, and sea turtles.
5. Los Gemelos: Los Gemelos, also known as the "Twin Craters," are two enormous sinkholes in the Santa Cruz Highlands. They are formed as a result of the collapse of underground magma chambers. Visitors can view the craters from the top, hike on the trails around, and also spot local bird species like the short-eared owl.
6. Garrapatero Beach: Garrapatero beach is a beautiful white-sand beach located on the eastern coast of Santa Cruz Island. The beach is particularly famous for its turquoise waters, and visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, surfing, and birdwatching.
These are just a few of the popular tourist attractions in Santa Cruz, Ecuador, and each one has something different to offer for visitors looking for the unique Galapagos experience.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Ecuador, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Santa Cruz.

When to go on holiday to Santa Cruz

The best time to visit Santa Cruz, Ecuador is during the dry season, which runs from June to November. During these months, the weather is cooler and there is less rainfall, making it easier to explore the island and enjoy outdoor activities. However, keep in mind that the peak tourist season is from December to May, so crowds and prices may be higher during this time.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Santa Cruz

To get to Santa Cruz Island in Ecuador, you will need to fly into the Baltra Airport. The flight can be taken from the international airport in Quito or Guayaquil. From the airport, you will need to take a short bus ride to the ferry terminal at Itabaca Canal. Then, you will take a ferry from Itabaca Canal to Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island. The ferry ride takes about 10-15 minutes. Once you arrive in Puerto Ayora, you can take a taxi or walk to your accommodation.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Santa Cruz, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Santa Cruz

Sure, here are some typical foods of Santa Cruz, Ecuador with a short description for each: 1. Seco de chivo: A stew made with goat meat, served with rice, avocado, and aji (hot sauce).
2. Hornado: A dish made with roasted pork, typically served with mote (hominy), llapingachos (potato patties), and aji.
3. Churrasco: Grilled beef served with rice, fried plantains, avocado, and aji.
4. Ceviche: A popular seafood dish made with fresh shrimp or fish marinated in lime juice, onions, and cilantro.
5. Encebollado: A soup made with fresh tuna, yuca (cassava), onions, and spices.
6. Llapingachos: A dish made with mashed potatoes, cheese, and onions, formed into patties and served with chorizo, avocado, and aji.
7. Arroz con menestra y carne asada: A dish made with rice, fried plantains, and beef, typically served with a side of refried beans (menestra).
8. Empanadas de verde: Fried or baked green plantain dough stuffed with cheese, meat, or shrimp.
9. Dulce de higos: Dessert made with figs cooked in syrup and served with cheese. 10. Chontacuro: A type of worm, usually boiled, and served as a snack or appetizer.
You can find general info about typical foods in Ecuador here.

Is Santa Cruz an expensive destination for tourists?

Santa Cruz is a popular destination among tourists who are interested in exploring the Galapagos Islands, which is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. As such, the cost of living and traveling on Santa Cruz can be quite expensive compared to other destinations in Ecuador. However, you can find affordable accommodation options and dining choices if you do some research and planning ahead. It's also worth noting that entrance fees to certain areas and tours can add up, but these fees are typically worth it for the unique experiences that Santa Cruz has to offer.

Where to find accomodation in Santa Cruz

The best areas to find accommodation to visit Santa Cruz, Ecuador are: 1. Puerto Ayora: This is the largest town on the island and offers a variety of accommodation options, including hotels, hostels, and vacation rentals. It is also conveniently located near many of the island's top attractions.
2. Puerto Ayora Waterfront: Many of the hotels and hostels in Puerto Ayora are located along the waterfront, offering beautiful views of the harbor and easy access to the town center.
3. Charles Darwin Research Station: If you're interested in visiting the Charles Darwin Research Station, there are several hotels and lodges located nearby.
4. Baltra: Baltra is the main airport for the Galapagos Islands and there are a few hotels and lodges located nearby for those who want to stay close to the airport.
5. Santa Cruz Highlands: If you're interested in exploring the highlands of Santa Cruz, there are a few lodges and guesthouses located in this area, offering a peaceful and secluded retreat.
You can check hotel prices at Santa Cruz here:
Booking.com

Is Santa Cruz a safe destination for tourists?

Santa Cruz, Ecuador is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, it's always important to take the same precautions you would when traveling to any new place. Stay aware of your surroundings, avoid carrying large amounts of cash, and be cautious when using public transportation. It's also a good idea to research any specific safety concerns that may be present in the area you plan to visit.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Ecuador here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Santa Cruz.

What type of travelers will enjoy Santa Cruz the most?

Santa Cruz, Ecuador is a great destination for a wide range of travelers, but it's particularly popular with couples and families. The island offers something for everyone, from romantic beaches to adventurous activities for kids. Families can enjoy exploring the nature, spotting different wildlife, and embarking on outdoor activities such as snorkeling, hiking, or kayaking. Couples, on the other hand, will appreciate the incredible beaches, relaxation, and romantic sunsets. Santa Cruz is not as popular for young people looking for a wild nightlife, but there are still plenty of restaurants and bars serving tasty food and drinks. Overall, Santa Cruz offers a great blend of adventure and relaxation, making it an ideal destination for families and couples who want to explore the beauty of the Galapagos Islands.

How to get around Santa Cruz

In Santa Cruz (Ecuador), the most common form of transportation is by mototaxi or taxi. Buses are also available, but they may be less frequent and less reliable than taxis. Some visitors choose to rent a bicycle or walk around town to explore the area at a slower pace. If you plan to visit the nearby islands of the Galapagos, there are several airlines that offer flights from Santa Cruz Island to other islands in the archipelago.

What to see around Santa Cruz

Certainly! Here are some places you can visit on a day trip from Santa Cruz, Ecuador: 1. Tortuga Bay: This beautiful, white sand beach is just a short boat ride from Santa Cruz and offers amazing views and the opportunity to spot marine life like sea turtles and rays.
2. Las Grietas: A stunning rift formed by volcanic activity that provides a great swimming and snorkeling experience. It is located on the island of Santa Cruz.
3. Isabela island: This is the largest island in the Galapagos archipelago, which is around two hours by boat from Santa Cruz. It offers visitors a chance to see a wide variety of wildlife including sea lions, penguins, and giant tortoises.
4. Los Tuneles: A unique natural formation of lava tunnels that stretch out into the ocean and provide a habitat for marine life. This is located on the island of Isabela.
5. Garrapatero Beach: A beautiful, uncrowded beach perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and picnics. It is located on the island of Santa Cruz.
6. Charles Darwin Research Station: This is an educational institution worldwide dedicated to scientific research and conservation of the Galapagos ecosystem. It is located on the island of Santa Cruz.
7. El Chato Tortoise Reserve: A great place to see giant tortoises in their natural habitat. It is located on the island of Santa Cruz.
I hope this helps you plan an exciting day trip from Santa Cruz, Ecuador!
For every travel information about Ecuador you can click here.

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