Deep immersion into the heart of Ecuador’s most biodiverse sanctuary.
Your adventure begins with the journey from the Andes into the vast Amazon basin. As you travel east, the landscape transforms dramatically — mountains give way to dense tropical forest, humid air, and winding jungle rivers.
Most programs include a motorized canoe transfer deep into the reserve, often lasting several hours, where wildlife sightings can begin even before reaching the lodge.
This remote access is part of what keeps Cuyabeno so pristine and authentic.
Why This Tour Is a Guest Favorite
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Snorkel with playful sea lions:
Santa Fe hosts a major sea lion colony, making encounters very common. -
One of the oldest islands in the Galapagos:
Known for its striking giant cactus forest and unique landscapes. -
High marine life density:
Frequent sightings of turtles, reef fish, and white-tip sharks. -
Small-group boat experience:
Typically around 12 passengers for a more intimate outing. -
Snorkel-focused itinerary:
Approximately 90% snorkeling and 10% beach time.
What You’ll See
- Large sea lion colony
- Sea turtles
- Reef fish
- White-tip sharks
- Blue-footed boobies
- Frigatebirds
- Giant cactus landscapes
Included and Excluded
- River and private ground transportation
- All meals (Day 1 lunch to Day 4 breakfast)
- Accommodation (Tents/Lodge)
- Purified water throughout the trip
- Specialized Naturalist Guide
- Common Birds of Cuyabeno Guide
- Rubber boots and rain ponchos
- Transportation to/from Quito
- Extra food and snacks
- Alcoholic beverages
- Community fees & Casabe demo
- Tips
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Full day (7–8 hours)
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08:00 AM from Puerto Ayora
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About 2 hours each way
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12 passengers
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90% snorkeling / 10% beach walk
Your Experience Step by Step
Morning Departure from Puerto Ayora
Your day begins with transfer to the pier in Puerto Ayora, where your yacht awaits.
As you sail southeast of Santa Cruz toward Santa Fe, keep watch — marine life sightings often begin during the navigation.
Moment to enjoy: The scenic morning crossing through the Galapagos Marine Reserve.
Upon arrival, your naturalist guide leads a coastal exploration from the boat.
From the surface you may observe:
- Blue-footed boobies
- Terns and fork-tailed gulls
- Frigatebirds
- Multicolored reef fish
The island’s coastline is alive with activity.
Highlight: High-density wildlife viewing from the very start.
Now comes the main event.
Santa Fe is famous for its resident sea lion colony, and the snorkeling here is often energetic and playful. Many travelers consider this one of the most fun water experiences in the Galapagos.
Possible encounters include:
- Sea lions
- Sea turtles
- Reef fish
- White-tip reef sharks
No advanced experience is required — the crew assists throughout.
Highlight: One of the best sea lion snorkeling sites in the archipelago.
Later, the yacht heads to Playa Escondida, a beautiful beach with turquoise waters and cream-colored sand.
Here you may:
- Relax on the beach
- Swim in calm waters
- Photograph coastal wildlife
- Spot sea turtles near shore
(Beach landing depends on sea conditions and captain’s decision.)
Highlight: A peaceful tropical break after the snorkeling action.
Enjoy lunch and snacks onboard while surrounded by the wild beauty of the islands.
Depending on conditions, optional fishing may be offered during the return navigation.
Return to Puerto Ayora in the afternoon.
