The full-day tour to Floreana Island and the Cave of Pirates is a captivating adventure for nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike. Guests can explore the Galapagos’ stunning landscapes, snorkel among vibrant marine life, and uncover the island’s intriguing history with the guidance of a professional. This personalized small-group experience promises an unforgettable day, with all the necessary inclusions to ensure a seamless and enjoyable journey. But what secrets might the Cave of Pirates hold, waiting to be discovered?
Key Points
- The full-day tour to Floreana Island and the Cave of Pirates departs from Santa Cruz, Ecuador, and is priced at $253.00 per person.
- The tour includes a professional guide, lunch, snorkeling equipment, hotel pickup, and transportation, but excludes wet suit rentals, water taxis, and additional food and drinks.
- Travelers can expect to see marine life such as sea lions, sea turtles, and vibrant fish during the snorkeling activity, as well as explore the unique landscapes of Floreana Island.
- The tour is not wheelchair accessible, and children must be accompanied by an adult.
- While the tour receives mixed reviews, many travelers praise the knowledgeable guide and the interesting visit to Floreana Island, though some issues have been noted with boat ride comfort and additional costs.
Tour Overview
The full-day tour to Floreana Island & Cave of Pirates departs from Santa Cruz, Ecuador, and is priced from $253.00 per person.
It accommodates up to 15 travelers and includes a professional guide, lunch, snorkeling equipment, and hotel pickup. Transportation and breakfast are also provided.
However, visitors must pay for wet suit rentals, water taxis, local taxes, and any additional food and drinks.
The tour involves snorkeling, hiking, and exploring Floreana Island.
It’s not wheelchair accessible, and comfortable shoes are recommended.
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the tour operates on a boat.
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Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour includes a professional guide, lunch, and use of snorkeling equipment (mask and fins). Hotel pickup within the urban perimeter of Puerto Ayora and transportation are also provided.
However, the following items aren’t included:
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Wet suits (available for rent)
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Water taxis and local taxes
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Food and drinks (unless specified)
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Drop off at hotel (tour ends at Puerto Ayora Dock)
Travelers should be aware of these exclusions and plan accordingly. The tour operates on a boat, and comfortable shoes are recommended.
Meeting and Pickup Details
Pickup Options include the hotel lobby within the urban perimeter of Puerto Ayora or a designated meeting point at 7M2P+VF6 in Puerto Ayora, Ecuador.
Pickup options include the hotel lobby or a meeting point at 7M2P+VF6 in Puerto Ayora, Ecuador.
The tour ends at the Malecon in Puerto Ayora. Guests should be ready for pickup at 7:00 AM.
The tour operates on a boat, so comfortable shoes are recommended. Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.
After the tour, guests will be dropped off at the Puerto Ayora Dock, not at their hotel.
Tour Experience
Although the tour operates on a boat, the experience allows visitors to enjoy the natural wonders of Floreana Island.
The day includes:
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Snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters to spot marine life like sea lions, sea turtles, and vibrant fish.
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Hiking to explore the island’s unique landscapes, including the iconic Cave of Pirates.
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Learning about the island’s fascinating history and its role in Charles Darwin’s discoveries.
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Enjoying a delicious lunch on the island, surrounded by the stunning natural scenery.
The tour provides an opportunity to experience the Galapagos Islands’ beauty and diversity firsthand.
Customer Feedback
Customer reviews of the Floreana Island Tour have been mixed, with some travelers praising the knowledgeable guide and the opportunity to see sea lions and turtles, while others have faced issues with the boat ride comfort and additional costs.
Several positive comments highlight the interesting visit to Floreana Island.
However, some negative reviews mention problems with the wildlife sightings and complain about the port fees and water taxi fees not being included in the tour price.
It’s important to note that the tour doesn’t include a visit to Punta Cormorant, which is a common misconception.
Floreana Island Highlights
Floreana Island boasts a rich history and diverse wildlife, making it a captivating destination for visitors.
The highlight of the island includes:
The highlights of Floreana Island include the cave of pirates, the famous post office barrel, excellent snorkeling, and hiking trails with stunning views.
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The cave of pirates, where legendary buccaneers once sought refuge.
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Floreana’s famous post office barrel, a unique tradition dating back to the 18th century.
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Excellent snorkeling opportunities, with a chance to spot sea lions, sea turtles, and a variety of colorful marine life.
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Hiking trails that offer stunning views of the island’s rugged landscapes and volcanic formations.
This full-day tour allows travelers to enjoy Floreana’s natural splendor and uncover its intriguing past.
Exploring the Cave of Pirates
Nestled along the rugged coastline of Floreana Island lies the mysterious Cave of Pirates, a captivating destination that beckons explorers to uncover its storied past.
Visitors venture into the dark, cavernous interior, where tales of buccaneers and buried treasure whisper from the shadows.
The cave’s labyrinth of tunnels and chambers offers a thrilling sense of discovery, as guests navigate the uneven terrain and search for hidden alcoves.
Sunlight filters through the entrance, casting an otherworldly glow on the cave’s rugged walls, sparking the imagination and fueling the desire to unravel the secrets of this captivating natural wonder.
Sum Up
The Full-Day Tour to Floreana Island & Cave of Pirates offers an unforgettable adventure in the Galapagos. With hotel pickup, a professional guide, and all necessary equipment, you’ll explore stunning landscapes, snorkel in vibrant waters, and learn about the island’s intriguing history. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or seeking excitement, this tour promises an immersive and personalized experience in a small group setting.
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