4-Day Galapagos Land Tour: San Cristobal and Santa Cruz Island

Exploring the Galapagos Islands is a dream for many adventure-seekers. This 4-day land tour offers a chance to experience the stunning natural beauty of San Cristobal and Santa Cruz Islands. Guided by knowledgeable naturalists, travelers will explore the unique wildlife and rich history that make this UNESCO World Heritage Site so captivating. From snorkeling with sea lions to hiking alongside giant tortoises, each day promises unforgettable encounters. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned nature enthusiast, this tour provides an opportunity to truly learn about the Galapagos’ remarkable ecosystem.

Good To Know

• The 4-day Galapagos land tour covers San Cristobal and Santa Cruz islands, providing opportunities to explore unique landscapes and observe diverse wildlife.
• The tour includes 3 nights of lodging, most meals, bilingual guides, and snorkeling gear, with speedboat transfers between islands and airport.
• Key activities on San Cristobal include visiting the Interpretation Center, hiking, snorkeling, and exploring natural wonders like serene lagoons.
• The tour highlights the Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz and offers the chance to observe giant tortoises in their natural habitat.
• Wildlife encounters in the Galapagos include observing Galápagos sea lions, flightless cormorants, marine iguanas, and Galápagos finches, showcasing the region’s biodiversity.

Tour Overview and Details

This 4-day Galapagos land tour explores the islands of San Cristobal and Santa Cruz. Priced from $1,002 per person, the tour accommodates up to 12 travelers and includes 3 nights’ lodging, most meals, bilingual naturalist guides, and snorkeling gear.

Transportation within the Galapagos, such as speedboat transfers between islands and airport transfers, is provided. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and requires a moderate fitness level.

Air travel to/from the Galapagos, the Migratory Control Card fee, and gratuities are extra. Vegetarian meals are available upon request.

The itinerary may change due to Galapagos National Park regulations or other circumstances.

Transportation and Transfers

All land and sea transportation within the Galapagogs is included in the tour package. This includes a transfer from the San Cristobal Airport to your hotel, a public speedboat transfer from Puerto Baquerizo to Puerto Ayora, and a transfer to Baltra Airport on the final day. Plus, water taxis from the dock cost $1 per person per ride.

Transportation	Included
Airport Transfers	Yes
Inter-Island Travel	Yes
Speedboat Transfers	Yes
Water Taxis	$1/ride

Air tickets to and from the Galapagos and the Migratory Control Card ($20) are not included in the tour price.

Important Notes and Requirements

Air tickets to and from the Galapagos aren’t included in the tour price.

Travelers must also pay a $20 Migratory Control Card fee. The tour doesn’t cover gratuities, soft drinks, or alcoholic beverages.

Travelers need to provide their passport information at booking. The child rate only applies when sharing with 2 paying adults.

Vegetarian meals are available upon request. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for those with back problems or pregnant travelers.

A moderate fitness level is required. Itineraries may change due to Galapagos National Park regulations or other circumstances.

Hotel and Dining Information

Hotel selection for this Galapagos land tour depends on the chosen category – Economic, Tourist, Tourist Superior, or First Class.

The restaurants visited will also vary based on the hotel class. First Class hotels offer more variety and gourmet meals compared to the options at lower-tier hotels.

All meals are served in the "meal of the day" style at local restaurants to support sustainable tourism in the Galapagos. Vegetarian options are available upon request.

Guests should keep in mind that the quality and selection of dining experiences will improve as the hotel class increases.

Itinerary and Additional Information

The itinerary for this Galapagos land tour is subject to change due to Galapagos National Park regulations or other circumstances.

Early arrival and late departure flights are recommended. The guides leading the tour are certified by the Galapagos National Park, and any complaints can be directed to the National Park Direction.

Travelers are advised to take seasickness precautions, especially for the boat transfers between islands.

This tour is non-refundable, and cancellation won’t receive a refund. Confirmation of the tour booking will be received within 48 hours, subject to availability.

Exploring San Cristobal Island

San Cristobal Island, the first stop on this Galapagos land tour, offers visitors a chance to discover the unique landscapes and wildlife that make the Galapagos Islands so captivating.

Guests will explore the island’s serene lagoons, home to sea lions, marine iguanas, and a variety of birds.

The tour also includes a visit to the Interpretation Center, where travelers can learn about the islands’ history, conservation efforts, and fragile ecosystem.

With the guidance of certified naturalist guides, you will have the opportunity to hike, snorkel, and enjoy the remarkable natural wonders that define this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Discovering Santa Cruz Island

After exploring San Cristobal Island, the Galapagos land tour continues on to Santa Cruz Island, home to the renowned Charles Darwin Research Station.

Visitors will have the opportunity to learn about the vital conservation efforts undertaken by the research station. The island also boasts diverse landscapes, from the lush highlands to the marine iguanas basking on the volcanic black sand beaches.

Hiking trails provide access to the stunning natural wonders, including the iconic Tortoise Reserve, where giant tortoises can be observed in their natural habitat.

With a diverse array of flora and fauna, Santa Cruz offers a captivating glimpse into the Galapagos’ unique ecosystem.

Wildlife Encounters in the Galapagos

Although the Galapagos Islands are renowned for their diverse landscapes, the true highlight for many visitors is the opportunity to encounter the islands’ unique wildlife.

From the iconic Galápagos tortoise to the playful sea lions, these creatures captivate visitors with their natural behaviors and lack of fear towards humans.

Key wildlife encounters on this tour include:

• Observing the curious Galápagos sea lions lounging on the beaches
• Spotting the flightless cormorant, a rare bird endemic to the Galápagos Islands
• Watching the marine iguanas, the world’s only sea-going lizards, as they bask in the sun
• Encountering the Galápagos finches, Darwin’s famous "Darwin’s finches," which were crucial to his theory of evolution.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Visitors Allowed to Swim With the Sea Lions?

Visitors are allowed to swim with the sea lions, as the tour includes snorkel equipment. However, they should maintain a respectful distance and follow the instructions of the naturalist guides to protect the wildlife and ensure a safe experience.

Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Equipment?

Snorkel equipment is included in the tour, so you don’t need to bring your own. The tour provides the snorkeling gear as specified in the itinerary. However, you’re welcome to use your personal equipment if you prefer.

How Do I Get a Refund if I Need to Cancel the Tour?

The tour is non-refundable, so cancellations won’t receive a refund. Customers should review the cancellation policy carefully before booking to understand the financial commitments involved.

Are There Any Special Dietary Requirements for the Meals?

The tour offers a vegetarian option upon request. Travelers with other dietary requirements should communicate them to the tour operator in advance to ensure their needs are accommodated during the included meals.

Can I Extend My Stay in the Galapagos After the Tour?

Yes, you can extend your stay in the Galapagos after the tour. The tour operator can assist with booking additional hotel nights and transportation to match your preferred schedule, though any extended stay would be at an additional cost.

The Sum Up

This 4-day Galapagos land tour is an excellent opportunity to explore the unique wildlife and landscapes of San Cristobal and Santa Cruz islands. Travelers will have the chance to see iconic species like sea lions and giant tortoises while seeing the rich history and natural wonders of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. With guided excursions, accommodation, and most meals included, it’s a seamless way to experience the breathtaking Galapagos Islands.