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Galapagos Safari Camp on Santa Cruz Island

The Galapagos Safari Camp offers a unique blend of adventure and luxury, resembling an exclusive African safari lodge. Its luxurious tented cabanas provide panoramic views of the archipelago, while expert guides lead wildlife excursions. Combining authentic Galapagos adventure with sophistication, the camp offers boutique lounges, elegant dining rooms, and infinity pools. Designed to offer an intimate experience of the ecosystem with comfort and class, it rivals any lodge worldwide. Ideal for adventure seekers seeking indulgence, guests can explore or relax while watching giant tortoises frequently crossing paths.

Highlights

Galapagos Islands, Santa Cruz Island, Lava Tunnels Tour, Giant Tortoise Observing, Wildlife-Watching, Snorkeling, Cerro Mesa Reserve, Garrapatero Beach, Sunrise Walk

The Galapagos Safari Camp offers a unique blend of adventure and luxury, resembling an exclusive African safari lodge. Its luxurious tented cabanas provide panoramic views of the archipelago, while expert guides lead wildlife excursions. Combining authentic Galapagos adventure with sophistication, the camp offers boutique lounges, elegant dining rooms, and infinity pools. Designed to offer an intimate experience of the ecosystem with comfort and class, it rivals any lodge worldwide. Ideal for adventure seekers seeking indulgence, guests can explore or relax while watching giant tortoises frequently crossing paths.

Highlights

Galapagos Islands, Santa Cruz Island, Lava Tunnels Tour, Giant Tortoise Observing, Wildlife-Watching, Snorkeling, Cerro Mesa Reserve, Garrapatero Beach, Sunrise Walk

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Safari Camp Itineraries

Arrival in the Galapagos Islands – Highlands of Santa Cruz Island – Tortoise Reserve – Galapagos Safari Camp

AM: Welcome to the world-renowned Galapagos Islands! Upon your arrival in the Galapagos archipelago, an English-speaking naturalist guide will meet you in the VIP lounge at Baltra Airport and accompany you on your excursion of the highlands of Santa Cruz Island.

PM: Once in the highlands, you can enjoy a delicious, locally-sourced lunch at a farm in the western hills. As you take in the area’s natural beauty, pit craters and lava tunnels, you will learn more about Scalesia and Guayabillo forests. At the Tortoise Reserve, share some time in the giant tortoises’ natural habitat, surrounded by the abundant bird life of the area. End this day at Galapagos Safari Camp with a sunset cocktail followed by dinner.

AM: Early morning will find you on a motorboat head out on a cruise to a neighboring island: North Seymour, Bartolomé, Plazas, Santa Fé, Floreana or Isabela. Each island is an endemic treasure to explore and enjoy. The Galapagos Marine Reserve is the second largest marine reserve in the world. Wildlife watching, as well as snorkeling off the boat, is highly recommended.

AM: Once again, early this morning we will again go on a cruise to a neighboring island: North Seymour, Bartolomé, Plazas, Santa Fé, Floreana or Isabela. Each island is an endemic treasure to explore and enjoy. The Galapagos Marine Reserve is the second largest marine reserve in the world. Wildlife watching, as well as snorkeling off the boat, is highly recommended.

AM: Following breakfast, a morning drive will take you to the eastern part of the island. At 490 meters above sea level, Cerro Mesa Reserve offers spectacular views of the largest crater on Santa Cruz Island, exotic plants, and seven unique subspecies of finch, as well as the elusive vermilion flycatcher.

PM: After lunch explore Garrapatero Beach, where you will find stunning contrasts of lush green mangroves, black lava, white sand and turquoise water – not to mention a lagoon inhabited by pink flamingos. Kayaking and mountain biking activities are optional.

AM: After breakfast, you can enjoy all the serenity that Galapagos Safari Camp has to offer. Relax on a sunrise walk to the camp’s observatory before your departure home or on to your next travel destination.

(This is when you’ll wish you had extended your journey, so ask your Surtrek travel designer now about Extended Journeys at Galapagos Safari Camp!).

Price per person

Double

USD$ 3820

Single

USD$ 4700

Included in the price

  • Accommodations
  • All meals indicated in the itinerary
  • VIP airport services
  • Transfer & ground transportation in the Galapagos Islands
  • Boat excursions with snorkeling on a sharing basis (additional options of securing a private guide or chartering the boat for a completely private experience)
  • Use of wetsuits and snorkeling equipment
  • Services of an English-speaking naturalist guide
  • Activities, excursions and visits as detailed in the itinerary

Not included in the price

  • Flights (all flights from mainland Ecuador to the Galapagos Islands can be arranged upon request)
  • Galapagos National Park entrance fee
  • Tourist Transit Card
  • Bottled drinks and alcoholic beverages
  • Laundry service
  • Insurance (prior to your journey, please ensure your travel insurance is valid in your country of origin
  • Tips and gratuities

Arrival in the Galapagos Islands – Santa Cruz Island – Galapagos Safari Camp – Highlands Exploring – Giant Tortoise Observing

AM: Upon your arrival in the Galapagos Islands, your naturalist guide will welcome you at Baltra Airport. You will then be accompanied in crossing the narrow Itabaca Channel over to Santa Cruz Island, and from there be driven to Galapagos Safari Camp.

PM: After a delicious, locally-sourced lunch at a farm in the western highlands, you will be able to take in the explore the highland's natural beauty, pit craters, lava tunnels and learn more about the Scalesia and Guayabillo forests. Before sundown, we will visit the nearby lava tunnels and search for Galapagos giant tortoises roaming in the tortoise reserve next to the Galapagos Safari Camp.

AM: The Galapagos Islands and the surrounding waters represent one of the world’s most unique ecosystems and is an area rich in biodiversity. The convergence of ocean currents has combined plant and animal life from contrasting environments and given rise to unique marine species. For these reasons, UNESCO granted “World Heritage Site” status to the Galapagos Marine Reserve (GMR), as it is the largest marine reserve in a developing country and the second largest marine reserve in the world. On days 2, 3 and 4, we will head out on two daily dives to fully experience this underwater realm.

AM: The Galapagos Islands and the surrounding waters represent one of the world’s most unique ecosystems and is an area rich in biodiversity. The convergence of ocean currents has combined plant and animal life from contrasting environments and given rise to unique marine species. For these reasons, UNESCO granted “World Heritage Site” status to the Galapagos Marine Reserve (GMR), as it is the largest marine reserve in a developing country and the second largest marine reserve in the world. On days 2, 3 and 4, we will head out on two daily dives to fully experience this underwater realm.

AM: The Galapagos Islands and the surrounding waters represent one of the world’s most unique ecosystems and is an area rich in biodiversity. The convergence of ocean currents has combined plant and animal life from contrasting environments and given rise to unique marine species. For these reasons, UNESCO granted “World Heritage Site” status to the Galapagos Marine Reserve (GMR), as it is the largest marine reserve in a developing country and the second largest marine reserve in the world. On days 2, 3 and 4, we will head out on two daily dives to fully experience this underwater realm.

AM: After breakfast, you can enjoy all the serenity that Galapagos Safari Camp has to offer. Relax and enjoy a sunrise walk to the camp’s observatory before being accompanied to the Baltra airport for your departure home or on to your next travel destination.

Price per person

Double

USD$ 3720

Single

USD$ 4600

Included in the price

  • Accommodations
  • All meals
  • Airport VIP services
  • Transfer & ground transportation
  • Boat excursions with snorkeling on a sharing basis (additional options of securing a private guide or chartering the boat for a completely private experience)
  • Wetsuits and diving equipment
  • English- speaking dive guide
  • 2 dives daily on days 2, 3 and 4,
  • Land excursions as detailed in the itinerary

Not included in the price

  • Flights (all flights from mainland Ecuador to the Galapagos Islands can be arranged upon request)
  • Galapagos National Park entrance fee
  • Tourist Transit Card
  • Bottled drinks and alcoholic beverages
  • Laundry service
  • Insurance (prior to your journey please ensure your travel insurance is valid in your country of origin
  • Gratuities
  • Dive computer

Safari Camp Gallery

Explore the Safari Camp through a curated gallery that showcases its elegant cabins, refined dining spaces, and onboard experiences. Each image captures the ship’s atmosphere, from relaxing moments to exciting adventures, inspiring your next journey at sea.

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FAQs about Safari Camp

What is Galapagos Safari Camp?

Galapagos Safari Camp is a luxury tented safari camp located in the highlands of Santa Cruz Island. Inspired by African safari lodges, it offers upscale tented cabins, panoramic views, an infinity pool and refined dining, all within easy reach of classic Galapagos wildlife excursions.

Where is Galapagos Safari Camp located in the Galapagos?

Galapagos Safari Camp is situated on Santa Cruz Island, in the central highlands. From this elevated position, you can enjoy cooler temperatures, views across the archipelago and quick access to sites such as lava tunnels, giant tortoise reserves and the port for day tours.

How is a Galapagos safari camp different from a hotel or cruise?

A Galapagos safari camp combines the comfort of a boutique lodge with the immersive feel of luxury camping. At Galapagos Safari Camp you sleep in stylish tented cabins on land, while exploring the islands on guided day trips and boat excursions — a great alternative to traditional hotels or cruise ships.

What is included in a stay at Galapagos Safari Camp?

Depending on the program, a stay usually includes accommodations in tented cabins, most meals, guided excursions on Santa Cruz Island, full-day boat trips or diving outings, use of snorkeling equipment and transfers within the islands. Park fees and flights are typically extra.

Is Galapagos Safari Camp suitable for families?

Yes. Galapagos Safari Camp is family-friendly and offers a safe, natural environment for children, with space to explore, wildlife on the doorstep and flexible activities that can be tailored to different ages and energy levels.

How long should I stay at Galapagos Safari Camp?

Surtrek offers 5-day Galapagos Safari Camp itineraries, including classic wildlife programs and diving-focused stays. Five days is ideal to combine highlands, neighboring islands, snorkeling and relaxing time at the camp, though extended stays can be arranged.

What wildlife can I see from Galapagos Safari Camp on Santa Cruz Island?

From Galapagos Safari Camp and its nearby sites you can encounter giant tortoises in the highlands, various finches, vermilion flycatchers, as well as marine life such as sea lions, turtles and colorful fish during your snorkeling and boat excursions.

Best Galapagos Cruises of the Season

Surtrek offers some of the season’s top Galapagos cruises, featuring expertly crafted itineraries, luxury comfort, and close-up wildlife encounters. With a strong focus on sustainability, these journeys deliver an unforgettable way to explore the islands’ remarkable landscapes and biodiversity.

Galapagos habitat

3D / 2N

The Galapagos Habitat Eco-Luxury Hotel, nestled on Santa Cruz Island, offers a waterfront setting wi...

Charles Darwin Research Station & Tortoise Breeding Center, Yacht Cruise to

from

US$ 2,303

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Island Hopping (3 Night)

4D / 3N

Surtrek’s Island-Hopping Tours offer a flexible way to explore the Galapagos Islands, combining stay...

Galapagos Islands, Bartolome Island, Plazas or North Seymour Island, Santa

from

US$ 170

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Elite

4D / 3N

Set sail on an unparalleled journey aboard the Galapagos Elite, the newest mega catamaran redefining...

San Cristobal Island, Gardner Bay (Española Island), Floreana Island, Mosqu

from

US$ 4,490

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Galapagos habitat

3D / 2N

The Galapagos Habitat Eco-Luxury Hotel, nestled on Santa Cruz Island, offers a waterfront setting wi...

Charles Darwin Research Station & Tortoise Breeding Center, Yacht Cruise to

from

US$ 2,303

Discover

Island Hopping (3 Night)

4D / 3N

Surtrek’s Island-Hopping Tours offer a flexible way to explore the Galapagos Islands, combining stay...

Galapagos Islands, Bartolome Island, Plazas or North Seymour Island, Santa

from

US$ 170

Discover

Elite

4D / 3N

Set sail on an unparalleled journey aboard the Galapagos Elite, the newest mega catamaran redefining...

San Cristobal Island, Gardner Bay (Española Island), Floreana Island, Mosqu

from

US$ 4,490

Discover

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Find Your Perfect Galapagos Cruise — Real-Time Availability

Discover available Galapagos cruises based on your travel dates, group size, and preferred yacht category. Explore top-rated vessels, flexible itineraries, and expert-led voyages designed for an unforgettable experience.

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✔ Family-friendly cruises, small groups, and private charters
✔ Guided by certified Galapagos naturalist guides

What Our Travelers Say About Us

Read verified reviews from travelers who have explored South America with us on Tripadvisor. Discover why our personalized journeys earn outstanding ratings.

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Nicole C profile picture
Nicole C
24 Junio 2025
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verificada
Wonderful trip We were so taken care of by Surtrek on a recent family trip to Equador and the Galapagos (travelers ages 8-77). Our Surtrek guide Maite worked with us to design a trip that focused on the items we wanted to be sure to see, and our timeframe and budget. Local guides and the boat tour she outsourced were wonderful. We felt so comfortable every step of the way for what would have otherwise been confusing travel. We definitely would recommend this company to others!
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Journey12963557311
25 Febrero 2025
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verificada
Unforgettable sensitive experience. Excellent!!!An unforgettable journey accompanied by the cordiality and professionalism of the company.Highly recommended, willing to repeat!
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Edgardo Marcelo M profile picture
Edgardo Marcelo M
25 Febrero 2025
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verificada
Beautiful experience. Wonderful places. Very well explained by guides of admirable training. All very well. There are no details to improve. The absolute good disposition and kindness were unbeatable. Makes you want to return soon
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Elsa M profile picture
Elsa M
25 Febrero 2025
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verificada
A dream trip The views was amazing. I took a lot of photos. Never seen animals, dream landscapes, amazing sea color. Luxury hotels, in Isabela by the beach, just steps from my room!!
Publicado en Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Nick V profile picture
Nick V
17 Diciembre 2024
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verificada
Ultimate fun, minimized hassles, amazing tour operation and travel agency I've had several people ask me what the highlight of our Quito, Ecuador and Galapagos Islands trip was, and frankly it's hard to pinpoint anyone thing so I tend to tell them: all 8 days! Our trip started with being greeted and picked up by our amazing travel agent, Maite. She was delightful from start to finish. Easy to communicate with via email, phone, and whatsapp. Maite consistently made sure we had what we needed. Surtrek supplied our driver, Christian, and our tour guide in Quito, Juan. Christian was a great driver. He knew the roads inside and out and we always felt safe. Juan probably knows everything about Ecuador -- and interestingly also Chicago! The time in Quito was fabulous. We enjoyed seeing the sites of the city and the cloud forest nearby. We ate delicious food and really had a treat with great weather. Maite and Christian got us to the airport for our trip to Galapagos and made sure we were smoothly through security. I've never had such personal service!Our time on the Horizon was fabulous. The staff onboard were top to bottom great. From the tour coordinator to the housekeeping to the culinary to the guide and of course the folks who drove the dinghys that got us to and from every activity. The food was top knotch with a lot of variety. The activities were fun and not overly strenuous, but also not lethargic. A nice balance.I was pleasantly surprised that in November there were no bugs, so no need for bug spray. Of course plenty of need for sun screen still! But the temps were great. High 70's and low 80's Fahrenheit. We saw basically everything in the Galapagos: penguins, blue and red footed boobies, frigate birds, owl, land and marine iguanas, sea lions everywhere, and of course the giant tortoises! During snorkeling we had [small and hammerhead] sharks in the water with us, sea lions in the water, schools of brilliant fish, and 1 amazing encounter with a sea turtle only feet away from my mask. It was breathtaking. Some folks say later in the summer is the best time because the water is clearer, but in our case the water was still quite clear and the animals were much closer to the surface, so it worked great. And the crew provided us with wet suits, so that helped with buoyancy and with warmth. After Galapagos we were shocked to have Maite and Christian back with us at the airport. We expected since our planned activities with Surtrek were done that we wouldn't see them again, but no they were there to meet us again and make sure we transited to our final hotel for a few hours sleep before the final trip home. It was a very pleasant surprise, and frankly just made it so much simpler than being "on our own".The coffee, the chocolate, the hummingbird sanctuary, all the beautiful sites. Dessert all the time. Just a really great trip!I'd go back to Ecuador in a heartbeat, and Surtrek is absolutely how I'd organize my trip to make it hassle free!
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TravelerPatch profile picture
TravelerPatch
20 Noviembre 2024
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verificada
Oh, were there to be Six Stars to give! My friend and I were looking to do a boat-based Galapagos trip, as well as a few days in and around Quito. Normally, I don't much use tour companies, preferring to plan the trip mostly on my own. However, for a few reasons, and after some research, we ended up working with Maite at Surtrek to plan this trip. It was, simply, fantastic.From the start (and all the various questions over email) to the end (meeting us at the airport as we were headed back to the U.S., Surtrek (and, specially, Maite - and our guide, Juan and driver, Christian) was 100% top-notch, full recommend, no-doubt-about-it wonderful.Assuming you can book a flight to and from Quito, the rest you will not have to worry about one bit. They will work with you to tailor a trip exactly to your liking (we had a grand time doing just what we hoped to do) and, while on that trip, you'll have a blast. The enthusiasm and passion with which Juan lead the tours was unsurpassed. Christian was a great driver and, also, such fun. Maite was a true joy with which to work.I know this sounds a bit over the top, but it's also accurate. I fully recommend - trust me - you won't be disappointed.
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Laura M profile picture
Laura M
9 Noviembre 2024
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verificada
Galapagos, Machu Picchu, and Easter Island! Everything about this trip was absolutely amazing. Surtrek arranged and organized everything for us - it was one of the best travel experiences we've had. We had guides and drivers who took very good care of us and made sure we got to see and do absolutely everything. I would HIGHLY recommend Surtrek for any South American travels!
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Sangeetha M profile picture
Sangeetha M
21 Octubre 2024
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verificada
Amazing honeymoon trip to the Galapagos! We loved our trip with Surtrek! We worked closely with Fernando to plan our honeymoon to the Galapagos. We didn't know exactly what we wanted to do; whether it was a cruise or a land tour. But, we knew we needed to plan it relatively soon or the opportunity would slip through the cracks as we got busy with work travel and the holiday season that was approaching. Fernando provided several options to choose from with a combination of cruise and land options; all within our budget. He provided his insight and suggestions along the way, which was much appreciated! We ultimately chose a 7-day, 6-night luxury yacht with an additional 3 nights on the island to explore by ourselves. It took a little more than a week from the time I contacted Surtrek to the time we finalized/booked the trip, There was always someone to guide us every step of the way, which was also appreciated as neither of us spoke Spanish. All the logistics worked out perfectly. 10/10 would recommend!
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Donalyn R profile picture
Donalyn R
28 Septiembre 2024
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verificada
The trip of a lifetime!! We just had the most amazing adventure and it was all thanks to Maite at Surtrek! She patiently listened and crafted the very best experience for my husband and I! We visited Mindo, Cotopaxi, Baños, the Napo Cultural Center in the Amazon, and took a cruise around the Western Galapagos islands. From start to finish, Maite was so kind, so patient, and attended to my every question and concern. This was to be a celebratory vacation for many reasons, but principally our 25th wedding anniversary. Maite shared this with some of our hosts and we experienced beautiful celebrations at the restaurants and hotels we stayed at. It was the trip of a lifetime and we were so well cared for. When I expressed concerns regarding the reported unrest in Ecuador, Maite was able to reassure me that all would be well and that we would be very safe. We always felt very secure and comfortable. The private transportation and guides, the beauty and nature we witnessed, everything was amazing!! I cannot recommend Surtrek highly enough. We came home with over 1,800 pictures! Absolutely incredible! While you may be able to find cheaper options for travel, the quality of our experience with Surtrek was absolutely worth the price. If you want a quality experience, Surtrek is a fantastic choice!
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Trail777667
21 Julio 2024
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Surtrek is Awesome When my wife & I were planning a trip to Galapagos and Peru, we contacted 3 or 4 different travel agencies. I found Surtrek to be the most helpful, knowledgeable, flexible and offered competitive pricing. I dealt directly with Ligia at Surtrek and cannot find enough words to describe the friendly and superior services she provided us. We had specific cities and sights we wanted to visit and Ligia mapped out an excellent itinerary for us, including hotels, flights, restaurants and sightseeing. We visited Quito, Lima, Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca, in addition to an 8-day luxury cruise of the Galapagos islands. All arrangements, including flights, cruise, hotels, ground transportation, sight-seeing and guides were arranged by Surtrek. We were met at each arrival city by an expert guide and driver and the guide also helped us check in for our on-going flights at the end of each city tour. The guides were very knowledgeable, experienced and friendly, treated us very well and catered to our every need. Surtrek even helped secure reservations at high end restaurants in Lima, which are difficult to get unless booked well in advance. Surtrek made us alternate arrangements when one of our flights was canceled for mechanical reasons. Our trip lasted 18 days and all arrangements were flawless.To add a personal touch, Ligia treated us to a very nice lunch on our arrival in Quito. Thank you, Ligia, for making our Ecuador/Galapagos/Peru trip such a memorable, enjoyable and stress free one. I look forward to contacting you at Surtrek for our future South America travels.

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