Exploring Santa Cruz Island in the Galapagos

Most people know the Galapagos Island as a famous cruising destination. Made famous by Charles Darwin, and leading to his theory of natural selection, the animals here in the islands are unique and fascinating, and allow people to walk right up to them. Many explorers who come through the islands travel by expedition cruise ships, which can be quite expensive. However, there is a way to do the islands on a budget. If you are looking or a cheaper alternative to a fancy cruise between the islands, then look into staying at one of the many lodges in the town of Puerto Ayora, and exploring the island of Santa Cruz. You can also sign up for organized trips that venture out to the other islands to find different animals, or even dive and snorkel trips to experience the underwater life.

I thought this old stone structure, built over the water in the bay was too photogenic not to snap a few shots of. It reminded me of the days of pirates...who definitely used these islands as a hide out.

I began my adventure in Puerto Ayora, the island’s main town, which is vibrant with local markets, charming cafes, and has access to the famous Charles Darwin Research Station. Here, I learned about the giant tortoise breeding program and witnessed these iconic creatures up close, a testament to ongoing conservation work. I also went into a climate controlled room to see the preserved body of Lonesome George, the most famous of the giant tortoises. A short trip from town took me to El Chato Tortoise Reserve, where you can walk among wild giant tortoises in their natural habitat. The lush highlands provide not only a glimpse into the island’s volcanic origins but also unique opportunities to spot finches, mockingbirds, and other endemic species.

I love carrying a camera with me as I explore new towns and places. This was a view from the main road, looking out over the harbor of Puerto Ayora.

For water lovers, the Tortuga Bay is a must-visit, offering pristine white sand beaches and opportunities to kayak, snorkel, and observe marine iguanas basking along the shore. I'm a big underwater fan, so this is highly recommended. And for the geology lovers, exploring the Lava Tunnels, a fascinating geological feature that showcases the volcanic activity that shaped the islands, can be a can't miss here as well.

And just to throw in some pampering while I'm here, I took a water taxi across the bay to a nature trail that led me to the tucked away Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel. The view from my table looked out over an amazing pool, with ocean waves lapping up on the shore just beyond. Even if you don't stay here, I highly recommend visiting for lunch or cocktails by, or in, the pool.

The preserved body of Lonesome George.

Lonesome George was a giant tortoise from the Galápagos Islands and is renowned as a symbol of conservation efforts worldwide. Believed to be the last individual of the Pinta Island subspecies (Chelonoidis nigra abingdonii), Lonesome George was discovered on Pinta Island in 1971, at a time when his subspecies was thought to be extinct. His discovery highlighted the impact of human activities and introduced invasive species on fragile ecosystems.

For decades, scientists worked to find a mate for Lonesome George in an attempt to preserve his genetic lineage, but no suitable match was ever found. Despite these efforts, Lonesome George passed away in 2012, marking the extinction of his subspecies. Today, his preserved body is on display at the Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz Island as a reminder of the importance of protecting endangered species and their habitats. Lonesome George’s story continues to inspire global conservation initiatives and serves as a poignant emblem of both the fragility and resilience of the natural world.

I'm ready for adventure at the Galapagos National Park!

Dining at the fabulous Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel. So many options!

Me and George hanging out in the coldest place in the Galapagos.

Sunset colors and local wildlife at the docks in Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island.

Relaxing by the poolside at the Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel.

Even the pool has wildlife to see here in the Galapagos.

Nature walk along the coast and through the mangroves.

Me and Charles Darwin.

Finding some giant tortoises in the wild up in the highlands on Santa Cruz Island.

Another cool view while walking around the town of Puerto Ayora.

I love how close you can get to the animals. They are not afraid of you in the slightest.

Notice the different shell on this giant tortoise. Just like the finches, evolving into different species on different islands, the tortoises did as well. This is at the Charles Darwin Research Center.