Full-day tours in Santa Cruz showcase the best of the Galapagos Islands, with several standout options worth your time and money. The most impressive excursions head to Pinzon Island for world-class snorkeling with sea turtles and tropical fish, while the Santa Fe trip combines hiking and swimming in crystal-clear waters. Floreana Island offers the perfect mix of history and wildlife viewing, where you’ll spot flamingos and learn about the islands’ mysterious past. The Plazas & Carrion Point tour stands out for its dramatic landscapes and opportunities to see land iguanas and frigate birds up close.
We particularly love the Pinzon Island tour for its pristine waters and abundant marine life, and recommend the Floreana excursion for first-time visitors who want a comprehensive Galapagos experience.
Let’s explore the top-rated tours that make Santa Cruz a must-visit destination.
Key Points
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The Floreana Island tour offers opportunities to explore the Scalecias Forest, swim at Black Beach, and encounter marine iguanas and sea lions.
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The Bartolome Island tour showcases the dramatic volcanic landscapes and provides excellent snorkeling experiences with diverse marine life.
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The Plazas & Carrion Point tour is known for its clear snorkeling waters and the chance to observe terrestrial iguanas.
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The Santa Fe tour allows visitors to encounter marine iguanas and sea lions in their natural habitats.
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The Pinzon Island tour is renowned for its abundant marine life, making it an ideal destination for snorkeling enthusiasts.
Full Day Tour Pinzon Island + La Fe/Las Palmas – Snorkeling & Fishing
Embarking on a full-day adventure, this tour invites visitors to explore the pristine waters surrounding Pinzon Island and the nearby La Fe/Las Palmas region.
Priced at €150.09 per person, the tour accommodates up to 10 travelers and is operated by Galápagos Ninfa Tour.
With a rating of 4.6 out of 28 reviews, the experience includes snorkeling equipment, fishing rods, lunch, and a wetsuit.
While guests have enjoyed abundant wildlife sightings, some have raised concerns about safety during boat rides and lack of adequate fishing opportunities.
Read our full review: Full Day Tour Pinzon Island + La Fe/Las Palmas – Snorkeling & Fishing Review
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Full Day Santa Fe & Playa Escondida Snorkeling Tour
The Full Day Santa Fe & Playa Escondida Snorkeling Tour invites visitors to enjoy the vibrant marine ecosystem of the Galapagos Islands.
Rated 3.6 out of 5 from 11 reviews, this full-day excursion from Santa Cruz offers the chance to encounter marine iguanas, sea lions, and hawks on Santa Fe Island.
The tour includes hotel pickup, lunch, and all necessary snorkeling equipment.
While reviews are mixed, many highlight the amazing wildlife experiences, knowledgeable guide, and enjoyment of Playa Escondida.
However, some note issues with small boat capacity, poor lunch quality, and lack of communication.
Read our full review: Full Day Santa Fe & Playa Escondida Snorkeling Tour Review
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Full Day Floreana Tour
Nestled amidst the Galapagos archipelago, the Full Day Floreana Tour invites visitors to uncover the island’s captivating natural wonders.
Travelers can explore the Scalecias Forest, Asilo de la Paz, and the Black Beach, where they’ll have the opportunity to swim and snorkel with diverse marine life.
The tour’s highlights include spotting Galapagos penguins, sea turtles, and iguanas.
Accommodating small groups of up to 10 participants, this personalized experience includes hotel pickup, lunch, and round-trip transport.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s an excellent choice for those seeking an immersive Galapagos adventure, provided they don’t have serious medical conditions or are pregnant.
Feedback suggests room for improvement in pre-tour communication.
Read our full review: Full Day Floreana Tour Review
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Full Day Plazas & Carrion Point
An exhilarating full-day adventure awaits visitors to Santa Cruz’s South Plaza Island and Punta Carrion.
Set out on a yacht ride from Puerto Ayora and explore the remarkable wildlife, including terrestrial iguanas, hybrid iguanas, and sea lions.
At Punta Carrion, snorkel in the clear waters for a chance to spot whitefin sharks, sea turtles, and manta rays.
The tour includes a professional guide, complimentary lunch, and snorkeling equipment.
While wetsuits aren’t included, they can be rented separately.
This small-group tour, with a maximum of 15 participants, departs at 6 am and isn’t wheelchair accessible.
Cancellation is non-refundable, so be sure to plan accordingly.
Read our full review: Full Day Plazas & Carrion Point Review
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Full Day Pinzon Island, Finishing in La Fe With Snorkeling and Lunch Included
This full-day adventure takes visitors on an unforgettable journey to Pinzon Island, culminating in a relaxing snorkeling experience at Playa la Fe.
The small-group tour, limited to 10 participants, offers an intimate encounter with the Galapagos’ diverse wildlife, including marine iguanas, turtles, Galapagos hawks, white-tip sharks, eagle rays, and sea lions.
The tour includes land exploration and snorkeling opportunities, as well as a professional guide, lunch on the boat, and use of snorkeling equipment.
Hotel pickup within Puerto Ayora and transportation to the meeting point are provided.
With an overall 5-star rating based on positive reviews, this full-day tour promises an unforgettable Galapagos experience.
Read our full review: Full Day Pinzon Island, Finishing in La Fe With Snorkeling and Lunch Included Review
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Full Day Santa Fe and Playa Escondida With Snorkeling and Lunch Included
The Full Day Santa Fe and Playa Escondida tour offers visitors a chance to explore the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife of Santa Cruz Island. Priced at $237 per person, the tour has a maximum group size of 10 travelers and includes a professional guide, lunch, and snorkeling equipment.
While the tour doesn’t visit Playa Escondida as advertised, it does feature a boat trip and snorkeling activity. However, some travelers have reported issues with the tour’s organization, language barriers, and adherence to the advertised itinerary.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and children must be accompanied by an adult. This tour provides an opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Santa Cruz, though the execution may vary.
Read our full review: Full Day Santa Fe and Playa Escondida With Snorkeling and Lunch Included Review
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Full Day Bartolome Island & Sullivan Bay
Embarking on this full-day adventure, visitors explore the dramatic volcanic landscapes of Bartolome Island and Sullivan Bay.
Priced from $439 per person, the tour accommodates a maximum of 10 travelers and departs at 6:00 AM. Included are a professional guide, meals, and use of snorkeling equipment.
While wetsuits aren’t provided, they can be rented for $5. Reviewers praise the yacht crew and lunch, as well as the engaging guide and wildlife sightings.
However, some find the tour overpriced compared to other options.
Nonetheless, with its combination of natural wonders and guided exploration, this full-day excursion offers an immersive Galapagos experience.
Read our full review: Full Day Bartolome Island & Sullivan Bay Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Santa Cruz offers a variety of full-day tours for visitors to explore the island’s stunning natural beauty. From snorkeling at Pinzon Island to hiking on Bartolome Island, there’s something for every adventure seeker. Whether you’re interested in wildlife, scenic landscapes, or water activities, these tours provide a comprehensive way to experience the best of what Santa Cruz has to offer.