If you’re planning a trip to the Galapagos Islands, Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island is likely on your itinerary. Puerto Ayora is the largest town in the Galapagos and a gateway to the islands’ incredible wildlife and natural beauty. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to travel from Baltra Airport to Puerto Ayora.
Step 1: Arriving at Baltra Airport (GPS)
Baltra, also known as South Seymour, is a small, uninhabited island. The airport, officially named Seymour Airport (GPS), was originally established by the United States Air Force to help monitor and protect western access to the Panama Canal during World War II.
- Deplane: Upon landing you will deplane via air stairs at the front and rear of the plane, walk across the tarmac, then follow a covered sidewalk into the modern airport building. Look for large, yellow land iguanas along the way.
- Transit Control: Upon entering the building, all tourists must get in the non-residents line. You’ll go through a brief immigration process where your Transit Control Card (obtained before your flight) will be checked. Pay the Galapagos National Park entry fee $200 (cash or credit cards accepted but best to have enough cash as a backup as there are no ATMs in the arrivals hall). Then have your carry on luggage scanned and wait behind the designated line until the dog has sniffed all of the checked baggage. Grab a free luggage cart if you need one. Collect your luggage and proceed to the exit.
Step 2: Lobitos Bus
- Buy your bus ticket: Upon exiting the airport walk to the right beyond the small cafeteria where you will find a small office that sells Lobitos bus tickets. Pay $5 cash (there is a discounted rate for seniors and minors) and be sure to keep the paper ticket handy as you’ll need it during boarding.
- Wait in line: The queue forms along the sidewalk in front of the kiosk. Your larger bags will be loaded by staff; only smaller carry-ons stay with you. The bus will take you from the airport to the Itabaca Channel. The ride takes about 10 minutes. Watch for land iguanas; you can also see the old foundations of the U.S. military base.
Step 3: Crossing the Itabaca Channel
The Itabaca Channel separates Baltra Island from Santa Cruz Island. After arriving at the channel:
- Luggage Handling: Staff will transfer your larger luggage from the bus to the ferry.
- Ferry to Santa Cruz: Get in line to board the ferry. The ferries run frequently and the ride takes about 5-10 minutes. The cost is $1 per person; either the captain or an assistant will collect the money during the ride.
Step 4: Traveling from the Itabaca Channel to Puerto Ayora
Once you’ve crossed the channel and arrived on Santa Cruz Island, you’ll need to travel south via the highlands to reach Puerto Ayora. You have two options:
- Public Bus: A public bus service operates from the Itabaca Channel to Puerto Ayora. The bus costs $5 per person. The journey takes about 45 minutes. Buy the ticket from the kiosk immediately after you step off the ferry and keep it handy as you’ll need to give it to the bus driver. The attendant will indicate which bus is departing next. Note that these buses are not air conditioned but you can open the windows.
- Taxi: Taxis (white pickup trucks) are available at the dock. A taxi ride to Puerto Ayora costs $25-$30 and can accommodate up to four passengers. The ride also takes around 45 minutes. If you’re not in a hurry, ask your taxi driver to stop at Los Gemelos twin volcanic craters and El Chato or Las Primicias Tortoise Reserve. You’ll need to negotiate the fare in advance, but expect to pay around $60 (total, not per person) for transport and wait time, plus the ~$10 per person entry fee to the tortoise reserve where you’ll be accompanied by a guide.
Step 5: Arriving in Puerto Ayora
Puerto Ayora is a bustling town filled with shops, restaurants, and travel agencies.
- Check into Your Accommodation: Depending on where you’re staying, your taxi driver can drop you off at your hotel or guesthouse. Many accommodations are within walking distance of the main dock and Charles Darwin Avenue, where you’ll be dropped off if you take the bus.
- Explore the Town: Once settled in, take some time to explore Puerto Ayora. Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station, stroll along the waterfront, or book a tour to explore other parts of the Galapagos Islands. Read our tips on budget-friendly things to do in Santa Cruz and contact us in advance to book day trips by boat.
Tips for Your Journey
- Carry small bills to pay for the bus and ferry tickets. Taxi drivers will give you a hard time if you try to pay with anything larger than $20s.
- There are public restrooms at the airport (inside in the arrivals area by baggage claim as well as outside near the bus stop) and at the ferry terminal on the Santa Cruz side.
- We recommend having drinking water handy as well as anything you might need should you feel motion sick on the bus or ferry.
Conclusion
Traveling from Baltra Airport to Puerto Ayora is straightforward, but it does require several steps. With this guide, you’ll be prepared to navigate each part of the journey smoothly, allowing you to focus on enjoying the incredible sights and experiences that await you in the Galapagos Islands. Safe travels!
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Be sure to read our Top Ten Galapagos Travel Tips for more helpful info!
