Full day Snorkeling Tour Santa Fe Island and Playa Escondida

If you’re heading to the Galápagos, chances are snorkeling will be on your list—and for good reason. This full-day snorkeling tour from Santa Cruz to Santa Fe Island combines incredible wildlife sightings, stunning scenery, and downtime on a beautiful beach, all for around $165 per person. With a 7-hour itinerary, it offers a well-rounded taste of what makes the Galápagos so special, led by knowledgeable guides who bring the experience to life.

We particularly love how this tour takes you to two different snorkeling spots, giving you ample chance to see sea lions, sharks, turtles, and colorful fish in crystal-clear waters. The stop at Playa Escondida adds a relaxing element—whether you want to lounge on the white sands or continue snorkeling—making it a flexible experience catered to different energy levels and interests.

One possible consideration is that weather conditions can influence parts of the tour, especially the fishing activity, which is optional. Also, because the boat is described as “not fancy,” travelers seeking luxury might find this experience more on the practical side. Nevertheless, if you’re looking for authentic wildlife encounters and a good value, this trip hits the mark.

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers, families, or wildlife enthusiasts who want a full day of snorkeling with the option to relax on a pristine beach. If you’re comfortable with moderate physical activity and eager to see the unique creatures of the Galápagos, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: Spot sea lions, sharks, turtles, and more in their natural habitat.
• Scenic Stops: Enjoy lunch overlooking calm waters and stunning views at Santa Fe Bay.
• Flexible Experience: Options for beach relaxation or additional snorkeling at Playa Escondida.
• Great Value: A comprehensive day for $165, including transportation, guides, and multiple snorkel sites.
• Small Group: Max of 12 travelers ensures personalized attention and better chances to see wildlife.
• Weather Dependent: Some activities like fishing depend on weather conditions; always check forecast.

An In-Depth Look at the Santa Fe Snorkeling Tour

When we picture snorkeling in the Galápagos, Santa Fe Island often comes to mind as one of the top spots. Known for its abundant sea lion colonies and clear waters, it offers a genuine glimpse into the archipelago’s vibrant marine life. This tour, operated by Galápagos Ninfa Tour, provides a practical way to experience this without breaking the bank, at $165 per person.

Arrival and Transport

The journey starts early at 8:00 am from NinfaLos Colonos in Puerto Ayora, with a roughly one-hour boat ride to Santa Fe Island. This transit, while straightforward, offers a chance to settle in and enjoy the ocean views. The boat itself isn’t described as luxurious but is functional and suitable for the purpose—an important detail if you’re sensitive to boat comfort.

Upon arrival, the scenery immediately impresses: sea lions lounging on beaches, rocky cliffs, and the promise of underwater adventures. The island’s landscape, combined with the chance to see wildlife both on land and in the water, sets the tone for an adventure packed with natural beauty.

Snorkeling at Santa Fe: Two Prime Spots

The core of this tour is the snorkeling at two different points on Santa Fe Island. The waters are often described as crystal-clear, allowing snorkelers to see sea lions, sharks, turtles, and a colorful array of fish. As one reviewer put it, “the snorkeling was amazing” and “you will be able to see and get up close and personal with some incredible wildlife.”

What makes Santa Fe particularly special? It’s one of the best areas for snorkelers to encounter sea lions in their natural environment. The playful animals often swim around snorkelers, sometimes even approaching curiously. The chance to see sharks adds an element of excitement, especially for those who enjoy spotting predators in the wild.

Santa Fe Bay and Lunch

After snorkeling, the tour visits Santa Fe Bay, where the calm waters and scenic backdrop provide an ideal spot for a relaxed lunch. You’ll enjoy local-style food while watching sea lions and seabirds in the distance. A reviewer mentions, “We had lunch overlooking the bay, watching sea lions in the background,” which captures the peaceful yet lively atmosphere.

This break is a highlight—not just for refueling but for observing the island’s marine mammals and seabirds in their natural habitat, adding depth to your understanding of the ecosystem.

Playa Escondida: Relax or Continue Exploring

The last major stop is Playa Escondida, a pristine white-sand beach that offers two options: disembark and relax on the beach or keep snorkeling in the surrounding waters. As one traveler noted, “the beach was really beautiful,” and some chose to stay onshore, soaking up the sun, while others continued exploring beneath the waves.

This flexibility is appreciated, especially if you’re traveling with family or prefer a more laid-back experience. Plus, the beach’s seclusion and natural beauty make it a perfect spot for photos and quiet reflection.

Optional Fishing and Weather Considerations

Part of the tour includes a fishing stop, dependent on weather conditions. While not everyone might participate, it adds an extra dimension for those interested in this activity. Keep in mind, weather plays a role; poor conditions can lead to cancellations or adjustments, but the tour offers full refunds if canceled due to weather.

Who Will Love This Tour?

Based on reviews and descriptions, this tour is excellent for wildlife lovers, families with children, and adventurous snorkelers. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience engaging for all ages. The small group size enhances the chance to see wildlife and ask questions, making it more than just a boat trip.

Practical Details and Tips

• Meeting Point & Time: Start at NinfaLos Colonos in Puerto Ayora at 8:00 am.
• Duration: Approximately 7 hours, including transit, snorkeling, and beach time.
• Group Size: Limited to 12 travelers for a more intimate experience.
• Physical Fitness: Moderate; some swimming ability needed but not extreme.
• Cost & Value: At $165, this covers transportation, guides, snorkeling gear, and lunch—offering good value given the scope of activities.
• Booking in Advance: On average, trips are booked 42 days ahead, indicating popularity and early planning are wise.

Authentic Traveler Feedback

From glowing reviews like “Best snorkeling from Santa Cruz” to more nuanced comments about booking challenges, the feedback shows this tour delivers memorable wildlife encounters and good value. Guides like Jaime are singled out for their enthusiasm and knowledge, helping visitors feel more connected to the environment.

Some travelers note the boat isn’t luxurious but emphasize that the snorkeling and scenery compensate for it. The overall consensus is that it’s a well-organized, rewarding trip—perfect if your priority is seeing wildlife and enjoying nature.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This full-day snorkeling adventure is ideal for nature and wildlife lovers wanting a straightforward, value-packed experience in the Galápagos. It suits those comfortable with moderate physical activity and eager to explore marine life in a natural setting. Families and groups will appreciate the small group size and flexible options at Playa Escondida, making it suitable for various ages and interests.

If your goal is to see sea lions up close, snorkel with sharks, and relax on a beautiful beach—all while enjoying knowledgeable guides and good food—this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s a practical choice that balances adventure, wildlife, and scenic beauty, giving you a real taste of what makes the Galápagos so extraordinary.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
Yes, the tour is suitable for families and travelers with moderate physical fitness. The activities involve snorkeling and some walking, but nothing overly strenuous, making it accessible for most.

Do I need prior snorkeling experience?
Not necessarily. While some swimming ability is helpful, the guides are experienced, and the waters are generally calm, especially at Santa Fe Bay and Playa Escondida.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, waterproof camera, and snorkeling gear if you prefer to use your own. The tour provides gear, but personal equipment can enhance comfort.

Can I participate in fishing during the tour?
Fishing is included as part of the scheduled activities, but it depends on weather conditions. It’s an optional part, and weather can influence whether it occurs on the day.

What’s the weather usually like?
Weather in the Galápagos can change, but generally, it’s warm and sunny. Cancellations due to poor weather are rare but possible, with full refunds offered if that happens.

How far in advance should I book?
Given the average booking window of 42 days, early reservation is recommended to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the start are not refunded, so plan accordingly.

Embarking on this snorkeling tour offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of the Galápagos. With chances to connect with incredible wildlife, enjoy scenic vistas, and relax on pristine beaches, it’s a solid choice for those eager to experience the archipelago’s marine treasures without a hefty price tag.