Two outstanding full-day tours stand out in Santa Cruz for serious wildlife enthusiasts. The Pinzon Island & La Fe/Las Palmas combo delivers prime snorkeling and fishing opportunities, putting you face-to-face with turtles, sharks, sea lions, and those iconic blue-footed boobies. Over at Santa Fe & Playa Escondida, you’ll get up close with marine iguanas, sea lions, and hawks in their natural habitat. While both excursions earn high marks from travelers, keep in mind some visitors have flagged safety and communication issues. Let’s explore the specifics of these top island adventures.
Key Points
- The Pinzon Island & La Fe/Las Palmas tour is a highly-rated full-day option that offers snorkeling, fishing, and wildlife sightings.
- The Santa Fe & Playa Escondida tour provides a full-day experience with hotel pickup, yacht departure, snorkeling, and a vegetarian-friendly lunch.
- Both tours offer opportunities to observe diverse marine life, including fish, turtles, sharks, sea lions, and the unique blue-footed boobies.
- The Pinzon Island tour has mixed reviews, while the Santa Fe tour receives more positive feedback on wildlife sightings and snorkeling enjoyment.
- Advance booking is recommended, especially for smaller tours, to ensure availability and secure spots for these popular full-day experiences in Santa Cruz.
Full Day Tour Pinzon Island + La Fe/Las Palmas – Snorkeling & Fishing
This full-day tour takes you on an unforgettable adventure to Pinzon Island and the stunning areas of La Fe and Las Palmas. Rated 4.6 out of 28 reviews, this tour offers a chance to explore the marine life of Santa Cruz, Ecuador.
For $155 per person, you’ll enjoy snorkeling, fishing, and sightings of diverse wildlife, including fish, turtles, sharks, sea lions, and blue-footed boobies.
The tour includes essential equipment like snorkeling gear, fishing rods, wetsuits, and provides lunch, snacks, and bottled water.
While most travelers can participate, the experience may not be suitable for those with back problems. The meeting point is Hotel Ninfa in Puerto Ayora, and the tour returns to the same location.
Guests have reported variable experiences, with some praising the attentive crew and memorable wildlife encounters, while others raised concerns about safety, boat discomfort, and communication issues.
Read our full review: Full Day Tour Pinzon Island + La Fe/Las Palmas – Snorkeling & Fishing Review
Book now: Check availability
Full Day Santa Fe & Playa Escondida Snorkeling Tour
For those seeking a captivating full-day adventure, the Santa Fe & Playa Escondida Snorkeling Tour stands out as a must-try experience. Operated by BM TOURS SA, this tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Santa Cruz Island’s natural wonders.
Accommodating a maximum of 10 travelers, the tour starts at $220 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
The itinerary includes hotel pickup, a yacht departure to Santa Fe Island, and the opportunity to spot marine iguanas, sea lions, and hawks. Visitors can then relax at the picturesque Playa Escondida and enjoy snorkeling activities, with all necessary equipment provided. A vegetarian-friendly lunch is served on board the yacht.
While reviews are mixed, with praise for the wildlife sightings and snorkeling, some guests have noted issues with the small boat size, lack of information, and subpar guide interactions.
To enhance the experience, suggestions include better communication and the inclusion of a short hike on Santa Fe Island.
Read our full review: Full Day Santa Fe & Playa Escondida Snorkeling Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Recommended Attire for the Tours?
For the tours, you’ll want to dress comfortably in layers. Wear closed-toe shoes, and bring sun protection like a hat and sunglasses. The weather can vary, so be prepared for both warm and cool conditions.
Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Equipment?
You can bring your own snorkeling equipment, but it’s generally recommended to use the gear provided by the tour operator. This ensures the equipment is well-maintained and suitable for the specific tour activities.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tours?
Most tour operators don’t have age restrictions, but they may have minimum age requirements for safety reasons. Check with the specific tour company to see if there are any age limits or requirements for the activities involved.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tours?
The cancellation policy typically allows you to cancel your tour reservation up to 24-48 hours in advance for a full refund. Be sure to check the specific policy for the tour you’ve booked.
Are the Tours Wheelchair Accessible?
The tours are generally wheelchair accessible, with accommodations available for guests with mobility needs. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator directly to confirm accessibility details for the specific tour you’re interested in booking.
The Sum Up
If you’re looking for the best full-day tours in Santa Cruz, consider the Pinzon Island + La Fe/Las Palmas tour for snorkeling and fishing, or the Santa Fe & Playa Escondida tour for snorkeling. Both offer unique experiences and allow you to explore the island’s natural beauty. Choose the option that best fits your interests and take advantage of the stunning scenery and diverse marine life.