Giant Turtle Watching and Lava Tunnels Tour

Exploring the natural wonders of the Galapagos Islands is a must for any adventurous traveler. The "Giant Turtle Watching and Lava Tunnels Tour" in Santa Cruz, Ecuador, promises an unforgettable experience. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour offers the chance to observe majestic giant tortoises in their habitat and explore fascinating lava caves. With a maximum of 16 travelers, the tour provides an intimate and immersive experience. But what makes this tour truly unique? Let’s find out.

Key Points

• Guided tour to observe giant tortoises and explore lava caves in Santa Cruz, Ecuador, offered daily from 9 AM to 11:30 AM and 2 PM to 4:30 PM.
• Tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, with a maximum capacity of 16 travelers and a cost of $35 per person.
• Tour features knowledgeable guides, including the owner Cesar, and has a 97% traveler recommendation rate based on 36 reviews.
• Moderate level of physical fitness required, and tour not wheelchair accessible but near public transportation.
• Immediate booking confirmation with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour, and optional lunch highly recommended.

Tour Overview

The Giant Turtle Watching and Lava Tunnels Tour takes place in Santa Cruz, Ecuador, with the meeting point located at Galapagos Frontier in Guayabillos.

The tour is open from July 3, 2023, to March 15, 2026, operating daily from 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM and 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM.

The tour costs $35 per person, with a maximum capacity of 16 travelers.

Bookings can be confirmed at the time of reservation, and there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

An optional lunch is highly recommended.

Booking Information

Booking this tour is straightforward. Visitors can receive confirmation immediately upon booking.

Plus, they’ve the option to reserve their spot now and pay later. The tour also offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience begins, providing flexibility.

On top of that, the operator guarantees the lowest price, ensuring customers get the best value.

Health and Accessibility

Although the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s conveniently located near public transportation.

Infant seats are available, making it suitable for families. However, the tour isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems, heart conditions, or serious medical issues, as it requires a moderate level of physical fitness.

Participants should be prepared for potential ant bites and wear appropriate footwear like tennis shoes and higher socks.

Experience Highlights

This tour boasts an impressive 97% traveler recommendation rate based on 36 reviews, earning it a Badge of Excellence recognition.

Knowledgeable staff, including the owner Cesar, guide visitors through the opportunity to see giant tortoises and explore lava caves. An optional lunch is highly recommended, featuring fresh fruit juice.

Travelers suggest wearing tennis shoes and higher socks due to potential ant bites, and bringing water to stay hydrated during the moderate physical activity required.

Traveler Feedback

Travelers have left an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars based on 36 reviews for the Giant Turtle Watching and Lava Tunnels Tour.

Positive comments praise the knowledgeable guides, friendly staff, and delicious fresh fruit juice. Some suggestions include wearing tennis shoes, higher socks, and bringing water due to ant bites.

The tour has also earned a Badge of Excellence recognition, indicating its popularity and quality.

Getting to the Meeting Point

Where’s the meeting point for the Giant Turtle Watching and Lava Tunnels Tour located?

The meeting point is at Galapagos Frontier, Guayabillos, Santa Cruz 200105.

To get there, visitors can:

1. Take a taxi or bus from the main town on Santa Cruz island.

2. Arrange for transportation through the tour operator.

3. Drive themselves and park at the Galapagos Frontier facility.

The meeting point is easily accessible, located just a short distance from the main town.

Attendees should plan to arrive a few minutes early to ensure they don’t miss the start of the tour.

What to Expect During the Tour

After arriving at the meeting point, the Giant Turtle Watching and Lava Tunnels Tour kicks off with a brief safety orientation.

Guests will then board a comfortable van and embark on a scenic drive to the tortoise reserve. Once there, they’ll have the opportunity to observe the giant tortoises in their natural habitat.

Following the tortoise viewing, the tour continues to a nearby lava tunnel. Guests will explore the cave’s unique geological formations, learning about the volcanic history of the region from the knowledgeable guides.

Throughout the experience, travelers can enjoy refreshing fruit juices and snacks. The tour concludes by mid-afternoon.

Additional Information

Visitors can conveniently reach the meeting point at Galapagos Frontier in Guayabillos, Santa Cruz, which is accessible by public transportation.

The tour is open from July 3, 2023, to March 15, 2026, with daily departures at 9:00 AM and 2:00 PM.

While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, infant seats are available.

It’s important to note that the tour isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems, heart conditions, or serious medical issues, as a moderate level of fitness is required.

The tour offers a 97% traveler recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence recognition.

Key Details:

1. Tour Duration: 2.5 hours

2. Capacity: Maximum of 16 travelers

3. Availability: Monday – Sunday

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

No, pets are not allowed on the tour. The tour operator’s policy prohibits bringing pets due to safety concerns for both the animals and other participants. Travelers must leave their pets at home or with a pet sitter during the tour.

Do You Offer Private Tours for Larger Groups?

Yes, the tour company offers private tours for larger groups. Guests can book a private tour for their group, with a maximum capacity of 16 travelers. Additional fees may apply for private tour bookings.

Are Photography Opportunities Available During the Tour?

Yes, there are ample photography opportunities throughout the tour. Guests can capture photos of the giant tortoises, lava caves, and scenic landscapes. The knowledgeable guides encourage photography and can provide recommendations on the best spots for taking pictures.

How Do I Book Transportation to the Meeting Point?

Travelers can book transportation to the meeting point, Galapagos Frontier in Guayabillos, Santa Cruz, through local taxi or shuttle services. Many tour providers also offer optional transportation as part of their tour packages.

Can I Purchase Souvenirs at the End of the Tour?

You can purchase souvenirs at the end of the tour. The tour operator has a small gift shop on-site where you can find local handicrafts, t-shirts, and other mementos to commemorate your visit.