Puerto Ayora

Written by Carmen Vallejo, Keith Roberts, Carlos Zambrano
03/08/2025
Scenic view of a coastal town with numerous boats in the bay, surrounded by lush vegetation.
Diego F. Parra, Pexels

Puerto Ayora, the largest town on Santa Cruz Island, offers a charming blend of local culture and natural beauty. Visitors can experience diverse wildlife, stunning beaches, and a relaxed island atmosphere, making it a central point for exploring the Galapagos.

Along Avenida Charles Darwin, visitors can find numerous restaurants, bars, and clubs for socializing. Options range from casual craft beer pubs and eateries to places with music and dancing, such as Limón y Café and Bongo Bar.

Top 6 Things to do in Puerto Ayora

Visitors can engage in a variety of activities, from exploring pristine beaches and unique geological formations to observing diverse wildlife in their natural habitats and experiencing local island life.

1. Tortuga Bay

Tortuga Bay features a stunning white sand beach, accessible via a picturesque trail. It is divided into two main areas: Playa Brava, known for its strong currents and popular with surfers, and Playa Mansa, a calm, protected lagoon ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. Along the path and within the bay, expect to encounter marine iguanas, Darwin's finches, and other native birds. The tranquil waters of Playa Mansa offer opportunities to spot sea turtles, rays, and white-tipped reef sharks.

Cost: Access to Tortuga Bay is free. Snorkel, mask, and fins can be rented from local agencies in Puerto Ayora. Kayaks are available for rent at Playa Mansa.

Transport: Tortuga Bay is reached by a pleasant 2.5 km (1.5 miles) walk from the southwest end of Puerto Ayora, taking approximately 30-45 minutes. A taxi to the trailhead entrance costs around $1-2. Alternatively, a water taxi from the main pier in Puerto Ayora can take you directly to Playa Mansa for about $10 per person one way.

2. Charles Darwin Research Station

At the Charles Darwin Research Station, gain insight into vital conservation efforts aimed at protecting the Galapagos ecosystem. The station is renowned for its giant tortoise breeding program, allowing visitors to see tortoises at various life stages. The site also features exhibits and opportunities to observe land iguanas.

Cost: There is no separate entrance fee for the Charles Darwin Research Station itself, but visitors are required to have paid the Galapagos National Park entrance fee upon arrival in the islands. A local guide, which may cost around $10, is required to visit the tortoise breeding center section.

Transport: The Charles Darwin Research Station is located on the outskirts of Puerto Ayora and is easily accessible. It is within walking distance of the town center, typically a 10-20 minute stroll along Charles Darwin Avenue. A taxi ride costs approximately $3-4.

3. Las Grietas

Las Grietas is a striking natural swimming hole featuring three clear, brackish pools nestled within a volcanic crevasse. The towering volcanic walls create a dramatic setting for swimming, snorkeling, and even cliff jumping into the calm, transparent waters. The journey to Las Grietas offers scenic views through unique landscapes.

Cost: As of 2021/2023, a local guide is required to enter Las Grietas, costing $10 per person (cash only).

Transport: To reach Las Grietas, take a short water taxi from the main dock in Puerto Ayora to the Finch Bay dock (approximately $0.50-$1 per person). From there, a well-marked 15-minute walk leads you through lava fields and past a sandy beach to the crevasse.

4. Santa Cruz Highlands Tour

Explore the lush, green highlands of Santa Cruz Island, a stark contrast to the coastal areas. This tour typically includes visits to Los Gemelos (The Twins), a pair of impressive volcanic sinkhole craters, and exploration of ancient lava tunnels. A highlight is visiting a giant tortoise reserve, such as El Chato or Las Primicias, where you can observe giant tortoises roaming freely in their natural habitat.

Cost: Entrance to the tortoise reserves is typically around $5 per person. A taxi can be hired for a Highlands tour, which may cost between $35-$75 per person depending on the specific tour and whether it includes airport transfer. It is more cost-effective to share a taxi with others.

Transport: The Santa Cruz Highlands are about a 45-minute drive from Puerto Ayora. A taxi is the most common and convenient way to visit these sites. Taxis can be hired for the day or for specific routes. Bicycle rentals are available in Puerto Ayora (around $10 per day), though a taxi is often used to reach the starting points due to the distance and terrain.

5. Puerto Ayora Fish Market

Experience the vibrant daily life at the Puerto Ayora Fish Market along Charles Darwin Avenue. Witness local fishermen bringing in their fresh catches, and observe the unique interaction between humans and wildlife as pelicans, sea lions, and marine iguanas gather, eagerly awaiting scraps. It offers a lively and authentic glimpse into the island's culture.

Cost: Visiting the fish market is free of charge.

Transport: The fish market is centrally located along the waterfront in Puerto Ayora, making it easily accessible on foot from most accommodations in town.

6. Day Trip to Santa Fe Island

Embark on a boat tour to Santa Fe Island, renowned for its significant colony of playful sea lions and unique Santa Fe land iguanas. The crystal-clear waters surrounding the island are excellent for snorkeling, providing opportunities to swim alongside sea lions, sea turtles, various fish, and even white-tipped reef sharks. Tours often include a stop at Playa Escondida, a secluded beach perfect for relaxing and wildlife spotting, and may feature a fishing demonstration.

Cost: Day tours to Santa Fe Island from Puerto Ayora generally cost between $140-$240 per person. This typically includes lunch, snacks, wetsuit, snorkeling equipment, and the services of a bilingual naturalist guide.

Transport: Tours depart from the main pier in Puerto Ayora. The boat navigation to Santa Fe Island typically takes about one hour.

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