The best full-day tours from Santa Cruz cut straight to the heart of what makes the Galapagos special. Four standout excursions pack the most value: Pinzon Island offers world-class snorkeling with sea turtles and the day’s fresh catch. Bartolome’s volcanic summit hike rewards with the archipelago’s most photographed view. Santa Fe’s protected bay hosts playful sea lions and countless tropical fish. The historic Post Office Bay and iguana colonies of Floreana tell fascinating stories of human and natural history. All tours include expert naturalist guides, quality gear, and lunch aboard. For travelers seeking the ultimate Galapagos day trip, let’s explore our favorite outings.
Good To Know
- Bartolome Island Experience offers a full-day tour showcasing volcanic landscapes and rich biodiversity, with a maximum group size of 16 and moderate physical fitness required.
- Santa Fe Island & Playa Escondida provides a full-day snorkeling tour with highly praised underwater experiences, despite some reported reservation issues.
- Floreana Island Adventure offers a full-day tour to the historic island, involving hiking, snorkeling, and wildlife spotting, with mixed reviews regarding extra costs and management issues.
- Full Day Plazas & Carrion Point is a wildlife-focused adventure, providing a guided walk to observe terrestrial and hybrid iguanas, as well as snorkeling at Punta Carrion.
- Pinzon Island Tours offers a full-day exploration of diverse marine ecosystems, including snorkeling and fishing, with mixed reviews highlighting wildlife sightings but mentioning safety concerns on boat rides.
Full Day Tour Pinzon Island La Fe/Las Palmas – Snorkeling & Fishing
This full-day tour offers visitors a chance to explore the diverse marine ecosystems of Pinzon Island and the La Fe/Las Palmas region.
Operated by Galápagos Ninfa Tour, the tour includes snorkeling and fishing activities, with the opportunity to spot sharks, turtles, sea lions, and a variety of tropical fish.
The tour starts at 8 am from Hotel Ninfa in Puerto Ayora and lasts the full day, ending back at the meeting point.
Priced from €149.26 per person, the tour has a maximum capacity of 10 travelers and includes the use of snorkeling equipment, fishing rods, lunch, and a wetsuit.
Reviews highlight the abundance of wildlife sightings and memorable snorkeling experiences, though some guests have reported safety concerns during the boat ride.
Read our full review: Full Day Tour Pinzon Island La Fe/Las Palmas – Snorkeling & Fishing Review
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Bartolome Island Full Day Tour
For those seeking an unforgettable full-day tour in the Galapagos, the Bartolome Island Full Day Tour from Puerto Ayora offers a remarkable opportunity to take in the archipelago’s volcanic landscapes and rich biodiversity.
This highly-recommended tour boasts 100% traveler satisfaction, with highlights including scenic viewpoints, snorkeling to observe marine life, and exploring the island’s diverse flora and fauna.
The tour provides a boxed lunch, round-trip transportation, a bilingual guide, and a maximum group size of 16 for an intimate experience.
However, it’s important to note the tour’s moderate physical fitness requirement and restrictions for certain travelers.
Priced at $369 per person, this tour promises an unforgettable Galapagos adventure.
Read our full review: Bartolome Island Full Day Tour Review
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Full Day Santa Fe Island and Playa Escondida Snorkeling and Fishing
Leaving the charming town of Puerto Ayora behind, travelers embark on the Full Day Snorkeling Tour to Santa Fe Island and Playa Escondida.
Operated by Galápagos Ninfa Tour, this SEK 2,073.08 per person excursion offers a full day of snorkeling and exploration. Equipped with wetsuits and snorkeling gear, participants can expect to see diverse marine life. Lunch, snacks, and beverages are included.
Though the tour doesn’t involve walking on Santa Fe Island, the snorkeling experience is highly praised by past travelers. However, some have reported issues with reservation confirmation and communication.
Read our full review: Full Day Santa Fe Island and Playa Escondida Snorkeling and Fishing Review
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Full Day Floreana Tour
Seeking a more immersive Galápagos experience beyond the main island of Santa Cruz? The Full Day Floreana Tour offers just that.
This full-day excursion whisks you away to the historic Floreana Island, where you’ll explore the Galapagos National Park, discover pirate’s cave, and hike through the Scalecias forest.
Snorkeling with tropical fish and spotting wildlife like iguanas, sea turtles, and giant rays are also on the agenda.
While the tour earns mixed reviews, with some complaints about extra costs and tour management issues, the knowledgeable guide and unique wildlife encounters make it a compelling option.
Just be prepared for some walking and bring motion sickness medication if needed.
Read our full review: Full Day Floreana Tour Review
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Full Day Pinzon Island, Finishing in La Fe With Snorkeling and Lunch Included
Embarking on the Full Day Pinzon Island tour, guests will have the opportunity to explore the island’s diverse landscapes and marine life.
This small-group experience, limited to 10 participants, offers hiking and snorkeling activities.
Sightings may include marine iguanas, turtles, Galapagos hawks, white-tip sharks, eagle rays, and sea lions.
The tour includes a professional guide, a complimentary lunch, and the use of snorkeling equipment.
Hotel pick-up and transportation to the meeting point are provided.
With a 5.0 rating based on 1 review, this tour is priced at $271.00 per person and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.
Read our full review: Full Day Pinzon Island, Finishing in La Fe With Snorkeling and Lunch Included Review
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Full Day Bartolome Island & Sullivan Bay
The Full Day Bartolome Island & Sullivan Bay tour offers guests a chance to explore the unique volcanic landscapes of these Galapagos islands.
With a maximum of 10 travelers, the tour includes transportation, lunch, snacks, and snorkeling equipment. Guests can expect a 2-hour yacht cruise to Bartolome Island, a 40-minute hike to the volcano summit, and exploration of bays, lava fields, and craters.
The tour ends with a return sail and lunch on board. While reviews are mixed, positive experiences mention knowledgeable guides and enjoyable snorkeling.
However, some guests have reported issues with booking and transportation. Travelers may find better experiences by booking directly with the tour boat companies.
Read our full review: Full Day Bartolome Island & Sullivan Bay Review
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Full Day Santa Fe and Playa Escondida With Snorkeling and Lunch Included
Offering a comprehensive exploration of Santa Cruz’s natural wonders, the Full Day Santa Fe and Playa Escondida tour provides travelers with an unforgettable experience.
At $237 per person, the full-day excursion includes professional guidance, a tasty lunch, and use of snorkeling gear. Accommodating a maximum of 10 guests, the tour departs at 7:30 AM with pickup from the hotel or a designated meeting point.
While wet suits aren’t included, the activity does involve boat travel and snorkeling. However, based on past reviews, there have been some concerns about disorganization and communication issues, as well as discrepancies in the itinerary.
Nonetheless, this tour remains a popular option for those seeking to discover the island’s stunning landscapes and marine life.
Read our full review: Full Day Santa Fe and Playa Escondida With Snorkeling and Lunch Included Review
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Full Day Plazas & Carrion Point
For those seeking a more wildlife-focused adventure, the Full Day Plazas & Carrion Point tour provides an immersive journey through Santa Cruz’s captivating islands.
Participants will embark on a yacht from Puerto Ayora, followed by a guided walk to observe the island’s unique terrestrial and hybrid iguanas, as well as the ever-entertaining sea lions.
The highlight of the tour is the snorkeling excursion at Punta Carrion, where travelers can spot whitefin sharks, sea turtles, and manta rays in the crystal-clear waters.
Included in the tour are a professional guide, complimentary lunch, and snorkeling equipment, making it an all-inclusive experience for up to 15 adventurous travelers.
Read our full review: Full Day Plazas & Carrion Point Review
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The Sum Up
Santa Cruz offers a variety of full-day tours that allow visitors to explore its stunning natural beauty. From snorkeling and fishing to visiting uninhabited islands, these tours provide a comprehensive and immersive experience of the Galapagos Islands. Whether you’re interested in wildlife, beaches, or adventure, there’s a full-day tour that’s sure to suit your interests and make the most of your time in this incredible destination.