Set out on a captivating day tour to the enchanting Santa Fe Island and a secluded hidden beach in the Galapagos. Enjoy the vibrant marine life as you snorkel alongside sea lions, turtles, and tropical fish, guided by local experts. After a delicious onboard lunch, unwind on the pristine shoreline and indulge in the thrill of fishing. With a maximum of 12 travelers, this intimate and enriching experience promises to leave you with memories that will resonate long after your visit. Discover the natural wonders that await you on this remarkable adventure.
Key Points
- A 7-hour day tour that takes visitors to Santa Fe Island for snorkeling with marine life, fishing during the return journey, and a visit to a hidden beach.
- Snorkeling opportunities to explore the vibrant underwater world and observe sea lions, sea turtles, eagle rays, sharks, and tropical fish.
- Fishing experience during the return journey, targeting species like tuna, mahi-mahi, and wahoo, suitable for both experienced anglers and beginners.
- Wildlife exploration on Santa Fe Island, including sightings of Galapagos tortoises, sea lions, frigatebirds, land iguanas, and various bird species.
- Includes amenities such as snorkeling equipment, lunch, beverages, towels, and wetsuits, with a meeting point in Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz Island.
Tour Overview
The day tour to Santa Fe Island and Hidden Beach offers a comprehensive exploration of the region’s natural wonders, catering to a maximum of 10-12 travelers over an approximately 7-hour duration.
Priced at $197.10 (originally $219.00), the tour boasts an impressive 5.0 overall rating from 62 reviews.
Guests can expect to enjoy a variety of activities, including snorkeling with sea lions, sea turtles, eagle rays, sharks, and tropical fish. There is also the opportunity to fish during the return journey.
The tour includes a visit to a hidden beach for relaxation and exploration, complemented by a delicious lunch and a range of beverages.
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Snorkeling Opportunities
During the day tour, guests can enjoy the vibrant underwater world of Santa Fe Island, as the snorkeling opportunities allow them to swim alongside an array of captivating marine creatures, including sea lions, sea turtles, eagle rays, sharks, and a diverse array of tropical fish.
Equipped with the provided snorkeling gear, guests can explore the island’s protected waters and observe these incredible animals in their natural habitat.
Whether it’s witnessing a playful sea lion gracefully gliding through the waves or catching a glimpse of a majestic eagle ray, the snorkeling experience promises to be both exhilarating and educational.
With the guidance of knowledgeable local experts, guests can fully enjoy the wonders of the Galapagos marine ecosystem.
Fishing Experience
Along With the captivating snorkeling experiences, the tour also offers guests the opportunity to try their hand at fishing during the return journey.
Anglers can look forward to the chance of reeling in a variety of marine species, including popular targets like tuna, mahi-mahi, and wahoo.
The knowledgeable guides provide all the necessary fishing equipment and offer guidance to help participants make the most of this exciting activity.
Whether you’re an experienced fisher or a beginner, the fishing portion of the tour provides a unique and memorable way to cap off your day of adventure and exploration in the Galapagos Islands.
Wildlife Exploration
Exploring Santa Fe Island’s diverse wildlife is a captivating highlight of this day tour, allowing visitors to observe the island’s unique animal inhabitants in their natural habitats.
From the iconic Galapagos tortoise to the playful sea lions, the island is teeming with a rich array of species. Guests can expect to witness:
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Graceful frigatebirds soaring overhead
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Endemic land iguanas basking in the sun
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Lively sea lion colonies frolicking in the waters
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Diverse bird species, including Darwin’s finches and boobies
The guided wildlife tour ensures a safe and informative encounter, enabling travelers to appreciate the island’s delicate ecosystem and the importance of conservation efforts in this remarkable destination.
Beach Visit
After exploring the island’s diverse wildlife, visitors can look forward to relaxing and discovering the hidden beach – a tranquil oasis that offers a chance to unwind and soak up the serene atmosphere.
The hidden beach, accessible only through this tour, invites travelers to stroll along the pristine shoreline, dip their toes in the crystal-clear waters, and simply bask in the natural beauty surrounding them.
Whether it’s sunbathing, beachcombing, or simply enjoying the peaceful ambiance, the hidden beach provides a perfect respite from the day’s adventures.
With its secluded location and untouched charm, this beach visit promises an unforgettable experience that complements the exciting wildlife encounters on Santa Fe Island.
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Included Amenities
The tour’s inclusions encompass an extensive array of amenities, from the provision of snorkeling equipment to the serving of a hearty onboard lunch featuring fish, seafood, or chicken ceviche, complemented by a sweet dessert selection of cake, cookies, and fresh fruits.
Beyond these culinary delights, the tour package also includes:
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All necessary fees and taxes
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Refreshments such as coffee, tea, bottled water, and soda
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Towels and wetsuits, both short and long, for guests’ comfort
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Alcoholic beverages to enhance the overall experience
These inclusions ensure a well-rounded and enjoyable day for participants, catering to their various needs and preferences throughout the tour.
Meeting and Pickup
The tour begins at the meeting point of Guiding Galapagos Expeditions in Puerto Ayora, where participants gather at 8:00 AM to embark on the day’s adventure.
The expedition departs from this centrally located starting point on Santa Cruz Island, providing easy accessibility for travelers. The tour then returns to the same meeting point at the end of the day, allowing for a seamless start and finish.
It’s important to note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but infants can join by sitting on laps.
Reviews and Feedback
According to the provided information, the tour garners a mix of positive and negative feedback from past participants.
On the positive side, travelers praise the knowledgeable and attentive guides, the excellent snorkeling with diverse marine life, and the well-organized nature of the tour, including the tasty onboard lunch.
However, some participants have raised concerns about safety issues and guide responsiveness during strong currents, as well as mixed experiences with the quality of the boat and equipment provided.
Feedback from previous guests highlights the following:
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Issues with safety and guide responsiveness during strong currents
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Concerns about boat safety features and overcrowding
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Mixed experiences with the quality of the boat and equipment provided
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Excellent snorkeling opportunities with diverse marine life
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?
There is no minimum age requirement specified for this tour. The tour is suitable for travelers of all ages, though infants must sit on laps during the tour.
Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Equipment?
The tour operator generally provides all necessary snorkeling equipment, but participants can bring their own if preferred. It’s best to check with the tour provider ahead of time to ensure compatibility and proper fit of any personal snorkeling gear.
How Do I Get to the Meeting Point From My Hotel?
Guests can take a taxi or public bus from their hotel to the meeting point at Guiding Galapagos Expeditions in Puerto Ayora. The meeting point is easily accessible by public transportation and located near the main area of the town.
Is There a Dietary Accommodation for Vegetarians or Allergies?
The tour provider generally accommodates dietary requirements, including vegetarian and allergy-friendly options. Travelers should inform the company of any special dietary needs when booking the tour to ensure proper arrangements are made.
What Should I Bring With Me on the Tour?
To prepare for the tour, travelers should bring a swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and any necessary medications. It’s also recommended to bring cash for personal expenses and extra snacks or drinks if desired.
Recap
This day tour to Santa Fe Island combines the thrill of snorkeling with tropical marine life and the relaxation of fishing in protected waters.
Guided by local experts, travelers can expect an intimate and enriching experience in the Galapagos, with opportunities to explore a secluded beach and observe diverse wildlife.
With a maximum of 12 participants, this tour provides a personalized adventure for those seeking to enjoy the natural beauty of the region.
More Snorkeling Tours in Santa Cruz
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- Full Day Santa Fe & Playa Escondida Snorkeling Tour
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