People who are interested in a unique and educational island getaway should consider a visit to Santa Cruz Island Galapagos. Santa Cruz is located in the center of 18 volcanic islands, known as an archipelago, or chain. A number of species unique to the area make the island a must-see destination for nature lovers.
Click fo Larger Map of Glapagos Islands
The Galapagos Islands are located in the Pacific Ocean, to the west of Ecuador. Average temperatures are between 69 and 84 degrees Fahrenheit, creating a perfect environment for year-round visitation. The island has two seasons, with January to June as the Warm seasonal period and July to December as the Dry season.
Air arrivals to Santa Cruz Island Galapagos land on the adjacent island of Baltra. An airport bus takes passengers to the Itabaca channel, where a ferry takes them over to the island of Santa Cruz. Boats may remain in the open water surrounding Santa Cruz for up to 20 days. Docking directly in Puerto Ayora is difficult, so many choose to drop anchor and use of water taxis to travel inland.
Visitors immediately notice the lack of paved roads. There are a total of four towns on the island: Puerto Ayora, Santa Rosa, Bella Vista and Cascajo. The only road connects Itabaca channel to Puerto Ayora, the largest town on the island. White pickup trucks provide impromptu taxi service, but tourism guides indicate the trucks only travel between the towns of Puerto Ayora and Santa Rosa.
Puerto Ayora is the only town on Santa Cruz island that offers overnight guest accommodations. There are hotels for every budget, along with a bed and breakfast establishment that includes breakfast in the daily rate. Island residents rent rooms to visitors at a moderate daily rate. Visitors are reminded to consume only bottled water during their stay.
Snorkel, surf or mountain bike during your visit. View a shark in Tortuga Bay. Explore lava tunnels at various points on the island. Learn about wildlife on Galapagos Island and observe turtle breeding at the Charles Darwin Station. A great way to see the island is to take a Galapagos cruise. Or just take in some sun while relaxing on Garrapatero beach.
Before visiting Santa Cruz, contact your Ecuadorian Embassy or Consulate for entry and exit requirements. United States citizens do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days in length, but must present a passport valid for a six month period after the intended departure date from Santa Cruz Island Galapagos.
