Upper Santa Cruz: Giant Turtles, Lava Tunnels and The Twins Tour

5.0/5 Stars - Based on 5 Reviews

Discover Upper Santa Cruz: Giant Turtles, Lava Tunnels & The Twins

Discover the highlands of Santa Cruz Island and experience three of its natural wonders in a single tour. Visit a ranch where iconic giant tortoises live in their natural habitat, explore impressive lava tunnels formed by ancient volcanic eruptions, and end your journey at Los Gemelos (The Twins) , two craters surrounded by a Scalesia forest, perfect for admiring one of the most representative landscapes of the Galápagos. A perfect tour to understand the volcanic origin of the archipelago and its extraordinary biodiversity.

3 hours
Every day
Turtle Monument/3:00 PM
Puerto Ayora/18:00

About this tour

We will leave Puerto Ayora to ascend to the upper part of the island, where the landscapes gradually change and the lush vegetation reveals the volcanic origin and extraordinary biodiversity of the Galapagos.

Our first stop will be a giant tortoise ranch. From the moment you arrive, you'll feel the thrill of coming face-to-face with these incredible animals in their natural habitat. Watch them move calmly, learn about their amazing characteristics, and take the opportunity to photograph one of the archipelago's greatest symbols.

The adventure continues underground. We'll reach the lava tunnels, enormous natural formations created by ancient volcanic eruptions. Exploring these passageways is a unique experience that will allow you to walk through the geological history of the Galápagos and discover how the force of nature shaped these islands.

To conclude the experience, we'll visit Los Gemelos, two spectacular craters surrounded by a native Scalesia forest. From their viewpoints, you can contemplate one of the most iconic landscapes of the Galápagos, breathe the pure air of the highlands, and with a bit of luck, observe endemic birds that inhabit this magical corner of the island.

With each stop, you'll discover a different facet of the Galápagos: the wildlife, the power of the volcanoes, and the beauty of its natural landscapes. A tour that combines nature, history, and unforgettable scenery, ideal for those who want to experience the essence of Santa Cruz Island in a single journey.


What's included

  • Professional Spanish/English speaking guide. Assistance to the meeting point. Entrance to the private ranch.

Not included

  • Food and beverages.

Comfortable, closed-toe shoes. Lightweight, comfortable clothing; a light or waterproof jacket is recommended, as the weather is usually cooler at higher elevations and there may be light rain. Sunscreen. Insect repellent. Hat or cap. Sunglasses. Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated. Camera or phone with sufficient battery to capture the incredible landscapes and wildlife.

The Galápagos Islands are one of the most extraordinary and fragile ecosystems on the planet. During your visit, please help us protect this invaluable natural heritage by always disposing of trash in designated areas and avoiding leaving any kind of waste on trails, beaches, or in natural areas.

Location

Rates

From USD 191

Upper Santa Cruz - Afternoon

From USD 151

Afternoon Tour. Includes: Professional Spanish/English speaking guide, assistance to the meeting point, and entrance to the private ranch.

Starts 15:00 3 hours Español, English
Operates: Every day
CANCELACION
General Terms
COSTO
Average
DIFICULTAD
Moderate
TEMPORADA

Frequently asked questions

This excursion to the highlands of Santa Cruz Island allows you to discover some of the most outstanding landscapes and natural attractions of the Galápagos. The tour typically includes a visit to a reserve or observation area for giant tortoises, the impressive lava tunnels, and Los Gemelos (The Twins), volcanic formations located in the center of the island. Generally, the service includes tourist transportation and a guide. It is recommended to check which entrance fees, meals, drinks, and transfers are included when booking, as these may vary depending on the chosen option. It's an excellent way to enjoy nature, wildlife, and geology all in one day.

The tour of the Santa Cruz highlands is a full-day or multi-hour excursion, depending on the itinerary and tour operator selected. During the tour, travelers typically visit natural areas where they can observe giant tortoises in their natural habitat, explore lava tunnels formed by ancient volcanic eruptions, and see Los Gemelos (The Twins), two large geological formations surrounded by vegetation. The exact duration, order of visits, and schedule may change due to weather conditions, Galapagos National Park regulations, or local availability. Before booking, it is advisable to confirm the final itinerary and return point.

The starting point depends on the chosen tour option and the traveler's accommodation location. In many cases, Santa Cruz Island excursions include hotel pick-up in Puerto Ayora or a central meeting point. For accommodations located outside the usual areas, a supplement may apply or an additional transfer may be required. When booking this Galapagos tour, it is important to provide the correct hotel name and address, as well as confirm the exact pick-up time. The operator's confirmation will indicate whether tourist transportation, transfers, and return are included in the price.

The excursion to the upper part of Santa Cruz is generally accessible to most travelers, although it includes short to moderate hikes on natural trails, uneven terrain, and volcanic areas. Visiting the lava tunnels may require careful footing, while observing giant tortoises and the Twins (Los Gemelos) typically involves hiking outdoors. It is not a highly demanding activity, but it is recommended to be in good enough mobility to walk for several hours. Those with injuries, pregnant women, or people with physical limitations should consult with the tour operator beforehand to confirm the itinerary's accessibility.

To comfortably enjoy this Galapagos excursion, we recommend wearing light, breathable clothing, comfortable closed-toe walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat or cap, insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle. A light jacket is also advisable, as the climate in the highlands of Santa Cruz can be cooler and more humid than on the coast. Don't forget your camera or phone to photograph the landscapes, always respecting conservation guidelines and maintaining a safe distance from wildlife. If the tour includes meals or specific entrance fees, please confirm in advance which services are included.
5.0 5 reviews
5.0

Tortugas gigantes, túneles de lava y paisajes increíbles en la parte alta

Una excursión imperdible para conocer la parte alta de Santa Cruz. Ver las tortugas gigantes en libertad fue emocionante, y los túneles de lava resultaron súper interesantes. Los Gemelos tienen paisajes increíbles y el guía explicó todo con mucha claridad. El recorrido estuvo bien organizado, cómodo y lleno de naturaleza. ¡La recomiendo totalmente si visitan Galápagos!

María Fernanda López
5.0

Giant Tortoises, Lava Tunnels, and Epic Views: Santa Cruz Done Right

Absolutely loved this Galápagos day tour! Seeing the giant tortoises up close was unforgettable, and the lava tunnels were seriously cool. The Twin Craters offered amazing views and great photo opportunities. Our guide was friendly, knowledgeable, and kept everything running smoothly. A fantastic way to experience Santa Cruz in one packed, memorable day.

Emily Carter
5.0

Tartarugas, túneis de lava e paisagens

Foi uma experiência incrível em Santa Cruz! Ver as tartarugas gigantes de perto foi emocionante, e caminhar pelos túneis de lava deixou tudo ainda mais especial. As Montanhas Gêmeas renderam paisagens lindas e fotos ótimas. O guia era super simpático, explicou tudo com clareza e cuidou muito bem do grupo. Recomendo demais para quem ama natureza e aventura!

Rafael Almeida
5.0

Ein unvergesslicher Galápagos-Tag: Riesenschildkröten, faszinierende Lavatunnel und atemberaubende Landschaften auf Santa Cruz hautnah

Dieser Tagesausflug auf Santa Cruz war eines der Highlights unserer Galápagos-Reise! Unser Guide war superfreundlich, gut informiert und hat uns die Besonderheiten der Insel wirklich anschaulich erklärt. Die Riesenschildkröten im Hochland aus nächster Nähe zu sehen, war einfach unglaublich – so beeindruckende, ruhige Tiere! Auch der Lavatunnel war spannend und sehr fotogen. Bei Los Gemelos haben uns die grünen Landschaften und die riesigen Erdspalten beeindruckt. Alles war gut organisiert, und wir hatten genügend Zeit für Fotos und Fragen. Festes Schuhwerk und eine Kamera sind empfehlenswert. Für Naturliebhaber ist diese Tour absolut ein Muss; wir würden sie jederzeit wieder buchen!

Lena Hoffmann
5.0

Santa Cruz entre tortues géantes, tunnels de lave et paysages volcaniques incroyables

Une journée incroyable sur Santa Cruz ! La visite des tortues géantes dans les hauts était fascinante, et les tunnels de lave impressionnants. J’ai adoré marcher dans ces paysages volcaniques, puis découvrir Los Gemelos, entourés de végétation. Notre guide était sympa, passionné et plein d’anecdotes ; il nous a donné des conseils pour observer les animaux sans les déranger. L’organisation était impeccable, avec des transferts ponctuels. Prévoyez de bonnes chaussures, de l’eau et votre appareil photo : cette excursion vaut largement le détour !

Camille Moreau
From USD 191

Price from, per person USD 191.00

September 2026
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