South Plazas and Punta Carrion Day Tour:Land Iguanas & Snorkeling

Puerto Ayora , Ecuador

South Plazas and Punta Carrion Day Tour:Land Iguanas & Snorkeling

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About this experience

This tour offers a diverse range of experiences, from exploring the stunning South Plazas Island and encountering unique wildlife such as land iguanas and sea lions to snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of Punta Carrion and discovering a rich underwater world filled with sharks, sea turtles, and colorful fish.
Our experienced guides are knowledgeable about the flora and fauna of the islands and will provide interesting insights and information about the different species you encounter, ensuring an educational and enjoyable experience.
Overall, this tour provides an opportunity to explore two of the most beautiful islands in the Galapagos archipelago, encounter unique wildlife, and experience the thrill of snorkeling in crystal-clear waters.

Available options

South Plazas Full-Day Tour

Box lunch included<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Guided activities

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Transportation by boat

Lunch

Certified Naturalist English/Spanish speaking guide

Snorkel equipment (mask and fins)

Snacks

Detailed itinerary

Join us on an exciting adventure to explore the enchanting South Plazas and Punta Carrion Islands off the east coast of Santa Cruz Island. Your tour begins with a convenient pickup from your hotel on Santa Cruz Island, followed by a short transfer to the port where you will board a boat.

Stop 2

Once aboard, you'll cruise to the Plaza Islands, where you'll be greeted by a variety of fascinating creatures. The visit to South Plazas includes an hour-and-a-half walking tour, during which you'll see land iguanas, marine iguanas, swallow-tailed gulls, and a range of tropical birds. The landscape is filled with plants, and you'll encounter various cacti along the path. With a bit of luck, you may also spot blue-footed boobies and sea lions.
The main attraction of South Plazas is the land iguanas, sea lions, and swallow-tailed gulls. The island is also home to yellow-tailed mullets, Audubon's shearwaters, red-billed tropicbirds, and brown pelicans that soar over the cliffs.

After your visit to South Plazas, we will head to Punta Carrion for an exciting snorkeling experience. Here, you'll have the chance to see a wide range of marine life, including whitetip sharks, starfish, green sea turtles, and colorful fish such as damselfish, parrotfish, and rays. You may also encounter sea lions in the water, making for an unforgettable experience. While on board, you'll enjoy a delicious lunch as you take in the stunning views. At the end of the tour, we will return to Puerto Ayora, where you'll be dropped off at your hotel.

What's not included

Personal expenses

Tips

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Vegetarian lunch option is available, please advise at time of booking if required

Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately

A minimum of 2 people per booking is required

Important notes

• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• Not recommended for participants with back problems

Times are subject to change due to local traffic conditions.

About Puerto Ayora

Puerto Ayora is the largest and most populated town in the Galápagos Islands, known for its vibrant marine life, unique wildlife, and stunning natural landscapes. It serves as the perfect base for exploring the enchanting ecosystems that make the Galápagos a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Top Attractions

Charles Darwin Research Station

A scientific research station dedicated to the conservation of the Galápagos Islands' unique ecosystems and wildlife.

Nature 2-3 hours Free entry, but donations are welcome

Tortuga Bay

A beautiful white-sand beach known for its pristine waters and diverse wildlife, including sea turtles and marine iguanas.

Beach Half-day Free

El Chato Tortoise Reserve

A protected area where visitors can see giant tortoises in their natural habitat, as well as other wildlife like Darwin's finches and mockingbirds.

Nature Half-day Approx. $10

Las Grietas

A natural swimming hole with crystal-clear water, surrounded by towering volcanic walls, perfect for a refreshing dip.

Nature 1-2 hours Approx. $5

Fish Market

A local fish market where fishermen sell their catch, and visitors can watch sea lions and other marine life gather for scraps.

Cultural 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Ceviche

Fresh raw fish cured in fresh citrus juices, typically lime or bitter orange, and spiced with ají or chili pepper.

Appetizer Contains fish and citrus.

Encebollado

A hearty soup made with tuna, yuca, onions, tomatoes, and cilantro.

Main Course Contains fish and vegetables.

Locro de Papa

A creamy potato soup with cheese, milk, and sometimes avocado.

Main Course Vegetarian-friendly, but can contain dairy.

Seco de Chivo

A traditional stew made with goat meat, served with rice, potatoes, and avocado.

Main Course Contains goat meat.

Popular Activities

Snorkeling Scuba diving Hiking Kayaking Surfing Beach lounging Sunset watching Yoga

Best Time to Visit

December to May

This is the warmest and wettest time of the year, with lush vegetation and abundant wildlife. The ocean is calm, making it ideal for snorkeling and diving.

24-30°C 75-86°F