Santa Cruz | Tribes Travel

Santa Cruz

About Santa Cruz

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Puerto Ayora, located on Santa Cruz, is the centre of the Galapagos Islands and has the largest human population. It has some of the few shops and hotels on the island. The Charles Darwin Research Centre (CDRC) is located here, where you can see giant Galapagos tortoises and learn about the conservation issues facing the islands. You can also see Galapagos tortoises in their natural habitat in the interior. The highlands have some interesting geological features such as lava tubes and pit craters. It has more endemic plants than any other island and the Scelesia forest and Miconia vegetation zone form some interesting habitats

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Highlights

Seeing giant tortoises in their natural environment.
Exploring subterranian lava tunnels.
Visiting the Charles Darwin Research Centre.
Shopping in Puerto Ayora.

Situation

At the centre of the Galapagos archipelago.

Getting there

Santa Cruz is the main entrance point to the Galapagos Islands, with flights landing at the Island of Baltra a short ferry ride away. All yachts call into the harbour at Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz during their cruise.

Best time

The Galapagos Islands are a year-round destination.

Health

There are no compulsory vaccinations.

Activities

Exploring the wildlife of the island, shopping in Puerto Ayora.