The Full Day Snorkeling Tour to Santa Fe Island and Playa Escondida is a must-try adventure for those seeking an intimate encounter with the Galapagos’ vibrant marine life. With a small group size, travelers can expect personalized attention as they explore the underwater world teeming with colorful fish, playful sea lions, and graceful sea turtles. Beyond the snorkeling, this tour offers a chance to unwind on the pristine beaches of Playa Escondida, making it a well-rounded Galapagos experience.
Key Points
- Offers a full-day snorkeling tour to Santa Fe Island and Playa Escondida in the Galapagos Islands, with a maximum of 12 travelers.
- Includes snorkeling equipment, lunch, beverages, snacks, and a wetsuit to enhance the underwater experience.
- Departs from Hotel Ninfa in Puerto Ayora, Ecuador at 8:00 am and returns to the same location.
- Provides opportunities to observe diverse marine life, such as colorful fish, sea lions, marine iguanas, and sea turtles.
- Includes a visit to the picturesque Playa Escondida, allowing travelers to explore the island’s pristine beaches.
Tour Overview
This full-day snorkeling tour takes visitors to Santa Fe Island and Playa Escondida in the Galapagos Islands of Ecuador.
The tour has a maximum of 12 travelers and is recommended by 92% of previous participants, who’ve given it an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars based on 12 reviews.
Included in the tour are snorkeling equipment, lunch, coffee/tea, bottled water, restroom access, snacks, and a wetsuit.
The meeting point is at Hotel Ninfa in Puerto Ayora, and the tour starts at 8:00 am, returning to the same location.
Snorkeling, wildlife viewing, and a beach visit are the main activities.
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Included in the Tour
The Snorkeling Tour Santa Fe Island includes a range of amenities to make the excursion comfortable and enjoyable.
Travelers receive snorkeling equipment for exploring the underwater world. A delicious grilled fish and rice lunch is provided, along with coffee, tea, and bottled water.
For convenience, a restroom is available on the boat. Snacks are also included, and a wetsuit is provided to keep guests warm during the snorkeling activities.
These inclusions ensure a well-rounded and hassle-free experience for participants.
Meeting and Pickup Details
Where does the tour begin? The tour starts at the Hotel Ninfa, located in the Los Colonos area of Puerto Ayora, Ecuador. Guests should arrive at the meeting point by 8:00 am to begin the full-day snorkeling adventure.
| Meeting Point | Start Time | End Point |
| — | — | — |
| Hotel Ninfa, Los Colonos, Puerto Ayora 200350, Ecuador | 08:00 am | Returns to meeting point |
The tour includes snorkeling equipment, lunch, coffee/tea, bottled water, restrooms on board, and snacks. A wetsuit is also provided. After a full day of exploring the marine life and beaches, the tour returns to the original meeting location.
Snorkeling Experience
After arriving at the meeting point, participants embark on the snorkeling portion of the tour.
The group first snorkels at one spot, getting up close with a variety of colorful fish. Then, they move to a second snorkeling location, Playa Escondida, where they can observe a thriving marine ecosystem.
Throughout the snorkeling experience, the tour guide provides insights into the wildlife and points out interesting species.
Snorkeling equipment, including wetsuits, is provided for all participants.
The moderate physical fitness required ensures guests can fully enjoy the underwater adventure at their own pace.
Wildlife Viewing
Beyond the thrilling snorkeling experience, the tour also offers opportunities to observe the diverse wildlife found in the area.
While snorkeling, guests may spot a variety of colorful fish, as well as sea lions, marine iguanas, and sea turtles.
On the island, birdwatchers can catch glimpses of magnificent frigatebirds, Darwin’s finches, and other endemic species.
The tour provides a chance to appreciate the unique ecosystem of the Galapagos Islands and learn about the rich biodiversity.
With moderate physical fitness, travelers can enjoy viewing the abundant wildlife in its natural habitat.
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Beach Visit
The tour includes a visit to the picturesque Playa Escondida, where travelers can stroll along the island’s pristine beaches.
Visitors are free to explore the area, taking in the breathtaking views and soaking up the natural beauty. While walking on the island itself isn’t included, guests can enjoy the serene atmosphere and spot various bird species along the shoreline.
The beach visit provides a relaxing respite from the snorkeling activities, allowing travelers to recharge and appreciate the stunning coastal landscape of Santa Fe Island.
Traveler Feedback
Travelers have shared predominantly positive experiences with the Snorkeling Tour Santa Fe Island. Highlights include enjoyable snorkeling and delicious grilled fish lunch.
However, some noted communication issues regarding booking confirmation. Guests recommend the tour guide provide more information about the wildlife observed.
The tour is suitable for families and children, with a high level of satisfaction among travelers. The tour’s maximum of 12 participants allows for a personalized experience.
With a 4.7 average rating and 92% recommendation, this tour offers an engaging snorkeling adventure in the Galapagos.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There an Option to Book a Private Tour?
The tour overview doesn’t mention a private tour option. Travelers can check with the tour operator to see if a private snorkeling tour is available, as this may offer a more customized experience for their group.
Can Children Under 12 Participate in the Tour?
Yes, children under 12 can participate in the tour. The tour is suitable for families and children, and has no age restrictions. However, a moderate level of physical fitness is required for the snorkeling activities.
What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy?
The tour operator offers a flexible cancellation policy. Customers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Within 24 hours, no refund is available. This policy provides travelers with reasonable flexibility to make changes to their plans.
Are There Any Medical/Health Requirements for This Tour?
The tour doesn’t have any specific medical or health requirements. However, participants should be able to swim and have a moderate level of physical fitness to fully enjoy the snorkeling activities.
Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Equipment?
Yes, travelers can bring their own snorkeling equipment for this tour. However, the tour also provides snorkeling gear, so it’s not necessary to bring your own if you don’t have it.
The Sum Up
This full-day snorkeling tour offers a chance to explore the vibrant underwater world of the Galapagos Islands. Guests can expect personalized attention, quality snorkeling gear, a delicious lunch, and opportunities to spot a variety of marine life. The tour culminates with a visit to the picturesque Playa Escondida, providing a serene setting to appreciate the natural beauty of the islands.
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