Puerto Ayora

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Puerto Ayora's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore Puerto Ayora
morning
:

Start your day with a walk along the waterfront, enjoying fresh air and beautiful views. Grab a traditional Ecuadorian breakfast at a local café.

afternoon
:

Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station to learn about conservation efforts and meet the famous giant tortoises. Spend some time shopping for local crafts and souvenirs in town.

evening
:

Enjoy a seafood dinner at a restaurant overlooking the harbor, where you can watch the sunset. Take a leisurely stroll along the beach to end your day.

day 2
Island Hopping Adventure
morning
:

Take an early boat tour to explore nearby islands like Santa Fe or South Plaza. Keep your camera ready for stunning landscapes and unique wildlife.

afternoon
:

Snorkel in crystal-clear waters, discovering colorful marine life and vibrant coral reefs. Enjoy a packed lunch on the beach surrounded by nature.

evening
:

Return to Puerto Ayora for dinner at a popular local eatery. Share stories of your day's adventures with fellow travelers over delicious local dishes.

day 3
Tortuga Bay Day
morning
:

Hike to Tortuga Bay, a beautiful beach known for its dramatic cliffs and soft sand. Take a moment to relax and soak in the tranquility of this stunning spot.

afternoon
:

Enjoy swimming and kayaking in the calm waters, keeping an eye out for marine iguanas and other wildlife. Picnic on the beach and savor the natural beauty around you.

evening
:

Return to Puerto Ayora and unwind with a refreshing cocktail at a beachfront bar. Relive the day's memories surrounded by the sounds of the ocean.

day 4
Pinzon Island Exploration
morning
:

Embark on a day trip to Pinzon Island, a lesser-known gem with pristine waters. Enjoy the early boat ride and take in the unique landscapes.

afternoon
:

Snorkel and swim with diverse marine life, including sea turtles and colorful fish. Picnic on the beach or enjoy a prepared lunch on the boat.

evening
:

Return to Puerto Ayora for a casual dinner and perhaps catch some live music. Reflect on your incredible encounters with nature throughout the day.

day 5
Highlands Adventure
morning
:

Journey to the highlands of Santa Cruz to visit the giant tortoise breeding center. Marvel at these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

afternoon
:

Explore unique volcanic landscapes and encounter diverse flora and fauna. Stop for lunch at a local farm or restaurant, sampling traditional Ecuadorian cuisine.

evening
:

Head back to Puerto Ayora and enjoy a relaxing dinner with local specialties. Spend the evening browsing through shops or enjoying local entertainment.

day 6
Snorkeling at Devil's Crown
morning
:

Set out early for a snorkeling trip to the iconic Devil's Crown. Experience the thrill of encountering diverse marine life in one of the best snorkeling spots.

afternoon
:

After a morning of underwater exploration, enjoy lunch at a nearby beach. Relax under the sun or take a swim to refresh yourself.

evening
:

Head back to Puerto Ayora for dinner and consider trying a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional dishes. Enjoy a fun night out in town exploring local nightlife.

day 7
Wildlife Watching
morning
:

Join a guided wildlife tour in search of the unique ecosystems of Santa Cruz. Come face-to-face with blue-footed boobies and playful sea lions.

afternoon
:

After lunch, continue exploring the islands, focusing on birdwatching and photography opportunities. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty that surrounds you.

evening
:

Head back to Puerto Ayora for dinner and consider trying a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional dishes. Enjoy a fun night out in town exploring local nightlife.

day 8
Day in Isabela Island
morning
:

Catch an early ferry to Isabela Island to experience its stunning landscapes. Visit the Giant Tortoise Breeding Center upon arrival.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon hiking to the Sierra Negra Volcano for breathtaking views. Have lunch at a local eatery and enjoy the relaxed island vibe.

evening
:

Return to Puerto Ayora and enjoy a casual dinner with fresh ingredients from the Galapagos. Join other travelers in sharing experiences at a lively local bar.

day 9
Sunset Cruise
morning
:

Take a leisurely morning to explore any remaining attractions in Puerto Ayora. Enjoy breakfast in a café with local pastries.

afternoon
:

Prepare for a sunset cruise around the bay, where you’ll get to see the island from a different perspective. Spot wildlife such as whales or dolphins during the journey.

evening
:

Savor a light dinner on board the cruise or head back to town for a meal. Conclude your day by watching a stunning sunset on the water.

day 10
Visit to the Ranch
morning
:

Visit a local ranch to learn about sustainable farming practices in the Galapagos. Participate in hands-on activities with the livestock.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a delicious farm-to-table lunch featuring local produce and ingredients. Explore the surrounding area, taking in the gorgeous highland scenery.

evening
:

Return to Puerto Ayora for dinner at a local café. Share experiences with other travelers and plan the next day's adventures.

Discover Puerto Ayora

Read more in our Puerto Ayora 2024 Travel Guide.

Puerto Ayora Travel Guide