Santa Cruz: Galapagos Islands 4 Day Explorer Tour in Quito Explained

The Galapagos Islands 4 Day explorer tour from the city of Quito, Ecuador has been gaining major popularity in the last few years and for good reason too!

This tour offers an amazing combination of wildlife, culture and stunning landscapes. Located in the western Ecuadorian province of Santa Cruz, it is part of the islands lying in the Pacific Ocean, which belong to the Republic of Ecuador.

The Galapagos Islands are considered one of the most amazing wildlife and eco-tourism destinations in the world. Tourists can explore the unique subtropic flora and fauna while they also soak up the culture and history of the islands. The islands are a mosaic of volcanos, beaches, lagoons, and sandy coves. This makes them the perfect destination for all kinds of travelers, from backpackers to cruise-goers.

This 4-day explorer tour is perfect for travelers who are looking to explore the idea environment on offer in Santa Cruz and the surrounding islands. Each day focuses on different activities, such as nature walks, water sports, snorkeling, swimming with giant tortoises, and more.

Day 1

The tour begins with a visit to the National Park El Garrapatero, located in the south of Santa Cruz. Here visitors can enjoy a series of exciting activities, such as snorkeling and swimming with giant tortoises. The park is home to a plethora of sea creatures and birds living in the area and you might even get lucky and meet few sea lions or dolphins.

A brief visit to Los Gigantes will also take place. It is located in the north of Santa Cruz near the small port of Villa Del Mar. Here you can observe the iconic Galapagos sharks, rays, tuna and other species.

Day 2

On the second day, you will explore the islands of Espanola and Floreana. These two islands are known for their seismic activity and offer a unique combination of nature walks, bird watching and marine life snorkeling adventures.

You will explore Magellanes Park first. It is home to two amazing beaches – La Loberia and La Negrita – where tourists can encounter rare species such as seahorses, iguanas, dolphins and sea turtles.

Continuing on your tour you will visit Punta Cormorante National Park on Floreana Island. This park preserves one of the most important colonies of blue-footed boobies in Galapagos.

Day 3

On the third day, you will visit Isabela Island. It is considered one of the most beautiful islands in Galapagos, due to its unique fauna, flora and landscapes. You will have time to go snorkeling with turtles and sea lions around Tintoreras Islet – a volcanic formation located at the entrance of Puerto Villamil – as well as visit Sierra Negra Volcano, one of the world’s largest active volcanoes.

Day 4 (final day)

The final day leaves you with a full day devoted to one of the most iconic spots in Galapagos: highlights from day 4 include a visit to Tortuga Bay Beach, witnessing blue-footed-boobies at Punta Suarez and exploring Charles Darwin Research Station. Here you can learn how local scientists are working on conserving the unique wildlife roaming the islands while they also share its unique biodiversity to tourists.

Final Thoughts

The Galapagos Islands are an absolutely amazing experience, providing an incredible opportunity for wildlife spotting, sea activities and cultural learning. From exploring stunning landscapes to swimming with turtles, this four-day explorer tour allows you to observe some of Earth’s most unique creatures in their natural habitat.

Overall this Galapagos Islands 4 Day Explorer Tour from Quito should be on everyone’s bucket list! If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience and adventure then this tour is for you! To book your tour today, visit GetYourGuide.

Santa Cruz: An Insider’s Guide to this Hidden Gem

Local Attractions:

Santa Cruz is a city that has plenty of hidden gems. One of the best places to visit is Las Cajas National Park, located just outside the city. It features over 200 lakes and lagoons that have formed over thousands of years, a perfect place for hiking and enjoying nature. Another fascinating place is the Museum of Anthropology and Contemporary Art, which features beautiful contemporary art and archaeological pieces. If you want to explore the city’s streets, don’t miss the colorful murals located throughout the historic center, which offers a unique perspective on the city’s culture and traditions.

Dining Spots:

Santa Cruz is a culinary gem. It offers a range of local dishes made from natural, organic ingredients, and is known for its delicious seafood. Take a stroll through the local market and try fresh ceviche or arroz con menestra, a traditional dish made from rice, beans, and meat. For a unique experience, visit the chocolate factory for a tasting, relishing in the dark chocolate made from the city’s cocoa trees. If you are looking for a cozy place to eat, try Gaston Acurio’s restaurant located in the heart of the city. It offers a modern interpretation of traditional dishes, taking your taste buds on a culinary journey.

Cultural Experiences:

Santa Cruz has a rich cultural heritage, offering numerous opportunities to experience local festivals, music, traditions, and arts. The most prominent event is the Inti Raymi, the Festival of the Sun, held in June. This festival celebrates the summer solstice and is filled with traditional dance performances and music, and local street food. Santa Cruz is also famous for its authentic and traditional crafts made by indigenous communities. Take a guided tour and learn about the complex techniques used to produce colorful textiles and pottery.

Local History:

Santa Cruz is a city with a deep and complex history. Start with a visit to the historic city center and take a guided tour of the Monastery of San Francisco and the Church of La Compania. These buildings date back to the colonial era and offer a glimpse into the city’s past. Visit the Pumapungo Archaeological Complex, an impressive Aztec ruin that served as an important political and religious center during the Inca Empire. Don’t miss the Explorers Club, which features fascinating collections of artifacts brought back by early explorers.

Off-the-beaten-path Suggestions:

Take a short trip to Cuenca, a charming colonial city that features stunning architecture and a vibrant arts scene. Get adventurous with a trip to Baños, a small town located in the mountains, famous for its hot springs and adventurous outdoor activities. And for the ultimate adventure, take a cruise off the coast of Ecuador and visit the famed Galapagos Islands, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to an abundance of unique and native wildlife.

In sum, Santa Cruz is a city with much to offer, from hidden attractions to culinary delights, rich cultural traditions to fascinating history, and off-the-beaten-path experiences. With a myriad of things to see and do, this city is a destination worth exploring.