Location: Puerto Ayora
Top Things to do in Puerto Ayora
Countries
10 Budget-friendly Things to do in Puerto Ayora That You Shouldn't Miss
Puerto Ayora is a town in central Galápagos, Ecuador. Located on the southern shore of Santa Cruz Island, it is the seat of Santa Cruz Canton. The town is named in honor of Isidro Ayora, an Ecuadorian president. The town is sometimes mistakenly referred to as Santa Cruz.
Restaurants in Puerto Ayora
1. Apnea Galapagos
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 81 reviews
We will guide you in a unique and memorable freediving learning experience. In our Shop we will share experiences with beginners, advanced and professional freedivers, and above all friends. we welcome you to enjoy our facilities in a relaxed, fun and comfortable environment. the locations are unique and we expect to dive with hammerheads , Galapagos sharks , plenty of tropical fish , manta rays , golden rays and the amazing Eagle rays.
2. Shark Bay Dive Center
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 130 reviews
Highlights: whale sharks, hammerhead sharks, shark action, dolphins, manta rays, turtles, schooling fish & big pelagics, non diving activities... ...Diving environment: drift diving, advanced divers, off the beaten track... This legendary Ecuador diving destination is often considered by experienced divers to represent something of a pinnacle in their scuba careers. In that sense, many agree that
3. Las Grietas
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,453 reviews
Reviewed By F336MVjohnd
From Puerto Ayora, take an 80-cent water taxi to Finch Bay, and then a walk past the German beach to get to this strikingly beautiful volcanic fissure that has connected out to the ocean... so it's also a great place for a swim. The water is cold... so you won't regret a wet suit. And do wear the snorkel mask as the view underwater is remarkable, and there are some interesting fish to see as well. The thing to be careful of here is that there are several pools separated by some very sharp and VERY slippery rocks. You CAN cross over them, but my wife and I each got several scrapes and bruises in the process. Also, there is no "life guard on duty". There is a guide who you sign in with at the top of the fissure... but if you need help it will be 10-15 minutes away, so do be careful if you venture past the first pool.
4. El Garrapatero
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 691 reviews
Reviewed By cesarmantillaand2018 - Quito, Ecuador
Accesible through paved road and pathway (rode a bike from Puerto Ayora). Top notch kayak and snorkeling equipment rental . Kayaking was great, through calm bay, to three other nearby beaches. Saw lots of sea turtles, marine iguanas, small bullsharks and lots of birds.
5. Reserva El Chato
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,900 reviews
Reviewed By Tempusfugit2015 - Roslyn, United States
Great place to see the tortugas in the highlands There us also a lava tube option You get a pair if boots to walk around It was drizzling so bring a poncho and water There are clean facilities and a restaurant avail
6. Santa Cruz Fish Market
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 854 reviews
Reviewed By BradT546 - Auckland, New Zealand
Had a lot of fun watching the sea lions and pelicans interacting with the people at the fish market. Was fascinating watching the fishermen feed the off cuts to the sea lions and pelicans in the water and watching one pelican try to swallow a whole Tuna head. The sea lions are very entertaining.
7. Galapagos Dreams Adventures
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 41 reviews
We are a Local Tourist Operator founded by young entrepreneurs that are passionate about showing you the wonderful ecotourism that Galapagos Islands has to offer. We provide our visitors with great advice and recommendations in discovering the endemic species and the most spectacular landscapes. We offer organized daily tours to all authorized destinations, Diving tours, island hopping, and cruises. Our greatest reward is to make your dreams come true while sharing the majestic nature of our islands.
8. Malecon de Puerto Ayora
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 98 reviews
Reviewed By Cavydad - Camarillo, United States
Walk the waterfront and experience everything! Imagine a day on Mulberry Street. From bars, fish markets shops and my favorite the infamous water taxis that transport people and luggage to the outlying boats. Select your favorite bar or cafe, linger, get into the Galápagos groove, and experience the islands.
9. Charles Darwin Research Station
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 3,272 reviews
Headed by a team of more than two hundred scientists, educators, research volunteers and support staff, this world-wide foundation is dedicated to preserving the Galapagos ecosystems.
Reviewed By shannav227
Charles Darwin Research Station is the place to start your trip in the Galapagos. You get assigned a nature guide at the entrance, and they will walk you around and explain the history of Darwin and the animals of the Galapagos, with the main highlight being the Giant Galapagos Tortoise. You get the opportunity to see baby tortoises in the breeding center from each of the islands, as well as tortoises of all different ages. We enjoyed our time here.
10. Laguna las Ninfas
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 454 reviews
Reviewed By LesGML
We visited Las Ninfas as part of our city tour with our Hotel Torre Mar Galapagos Boutique Suites. We enjoyed it so much we went back by ourselves. It is a nice peaceful walk in town that I really enjoyed.
