Upper Santa Cruz: Giant Turtles, Lava Tunnels And The Twins

3 hrs
From
ARS 225.817

Explore the highlands of Santa Cruz Island and discover three of the Galápagos Islands’ most remarkable natural attractions on one unforgettable tour. Visit a local ranch to see iconic giant tortoises in their natural habitat, walk through spectacular lava tunnels created by ancient volcanic eruptions, and finish at Los Gemelos (The Twins), two impressive volcanic craters surrounded by a lush Scalesia forest. This exceptional experience offers the perfect opportunity to appreciate one of the Galápagos’ most representative landscapes while learning about the archipelago’s volcanic origins and extraordinary biodiversity.

Tour Description

We will depart from Puerto Ayora and travel to the highlands of Santa Cruz Island, where the scenery transforms as lush vegetation highlights the volcanic origins and remarkable biodiversity of the Galápagos.

Our first stop will be a giant tortoise ranch. Upon arrival, you will have the opportunity to observe these impressive creatures in their natural environment. Watch them move peacefully, discover fascinating facts about their characteristics, and capture photographs of one of the most iconic symbols of the Galápagos Islands.

The journey will then continue beneath the surface as we visit the lava tunnels, vast natural structures formed by ancient volcanic eruptions. Walking through these tunnels offers a memorable experience, revealing the geological history of the Galápagos and showing how volcanic forces shaped the islands.

To complete the tour, we will visit Los Gemelos, two remarkable volcanic craters surrounded by native Scalesia forest. From the viewpoints, you can admire one of the most iconic landscapes on the Galápagos, enjoy the fresh highland air, and, with a little luck, spot endemic birds that live in this enchanting area of Santa Cruz Island.

At every stop, you will experience a different side of the Galápagos: its extraordinary wildlife, powerful volcanic history, and breathtaking natural scenery. This tour combines nature, history, and unforgettable views, making it ideal for travelers who want to discover the essence of Santa Cruz Island in a single experience.


What’s included?

What’s included:

Professional Spanish/English speaking guide. Assistance to the meeting point. Entrance to the private ranch.

What’s NOT included:

Food and beverages.

Frequently Asked Questions

This tour of the Galapagos Islands allows you to discover three natural wonders in the highlands of Santa Cruz Island. The excursion includes a visit to a ranch where giant tortoises live in their natural habitat, a tour through impressive lava tunnels formed by ancient volcanic eruptions, and a stop at Los Gemelos (The Twins). These two craters are surrounded by a Scalesia forest and offer one of the most iconic landscapes in the Galapagos. For specific details of the tour, such as schedules, duration, and included services, please consult the available information.

Yes. One of the highlights of this excursion in Santa Cruz is a visit to a ranch where the iconic giant tortoises live in their natural habitat. This encounter offers a close-up view of one of the most representative species of the Galapagos Islands and allows you to appreciate the archipelago's extraordinary biodiversity. The visit is part of a tour of the island's highlands, which also includes the lava tunnels and Los Gemelos (The Twins). The information provided does not specify the duration of the visit or any access requirements, so it's advisable to check these details before booking the excursion.

The lava tunnels are formations created by ancient volcanic eruptions and are one of the natural highlights of this excursion to Santa Cruz Island. During the tour, you'll explore these impressive passages and gain a deeper understanding of the volcanic origins of the Galápagos Islands. The visit is combined with observing giant tortoises in their natural habitat and the landscape of Los Gemelos (The Twins), two craters surrounded by a Scalesia forest. For information on conditions inside the tunnels, please refer to the specific tour details.

Los Gemelos (The Twins) are two craters located in the highlands of Santa Cruz Island and surrounded by a Scalesia forest. The excursion culminates at this site, from where you can contemplate one of the most iconic landscapes of the Galápagos Islands. This visit completes an experience focused on the geology and biodiversity of the archipelago, along with the giant tortoise ranch and the lava tunnels. The available information does not indicate if there are any additional services or specific conditions for the visit, so it is advisable to consult the updated information before booking the tour.

This excursion is an ideal option for those who wish to explore the natural beauty of the Galapagos Islands and understand the archipelago's volcanic origins all in one trip. The tour combines three outstanding experiences: observing giant tortoises in their natural habitat, exploring lava tunnels formed by ancient volcanic eruptions, and visiting Los Gemelos, two craters surrounded by a Scalesia forest. It also offers the opportunity to experience the extraordinary biodiversity of Santa Cruz Island and contemplate one of its most iconic landscapes. For details on duration, schedule, price, and inclusions, please consult the tour information.

PRICES 2026-2027

Upper Santa Cruz - Afternoon

Afternoon Tour. Includes: Professional Spanish/English Speaking Guide, Assistance To The Meeting Point, And Entrance To The Private Ranch.

  • Start Time: 15:00
  • Languages: ESP,ENG
  • Duration: 3 hrs
  • Operation Days: Every day
From
ARS 227.453
per person

Price per person based on a booking for 2 people. Prices may vary depending on the date and number of travelers.

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Upper Santa Cruz: Giant Turtles, Lava Tunnels And The Twins

3 hrs
From ARS 225.817

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Upper Santa Cruz: Giant Turtles, Lava Tunnels And The Twins