Rancho Primicias - A Sanctuary for Giant Tortoises
Explore Rancho Primicias, the premier giant tortoise reserve on Isla Santa Cruz, and connect with the natural beauty of the Galapagos Islands.
Discover the enchanting Rancho Primicias, a nature preserve on Isla Santa Cruz dedicated to the conservation of giant tortoises. Experience the beauty of these majestic creatures in their natural habitat, surrounded by lush landscapes and vibrant flora. Perfect for nature lovers and eco-tourists seeking to connect with wildlife and the exquisite beauty of the Galapagos Islands.
A brief summary to Rancho Primicias - Giant Tortoise Reserve
- Isla Santa Cruz, EC
- +593994391590
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
- Wear sturdy walking shoes for the trails and be prepared for uneven terrain.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as facilities are limited within the preserve.
- Respect wildlife and maintain a safe distance from the tortoises.
- Take a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the tortoises and their habitat.
Getting There
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Walking
From the center of Puerto Ayora, head towards the main dock area and look for the signs pointing to 'Rancho Primicias'. Begin your walk along Avenida Charles Darwin, which is the main street. Continue straight until you reach the intersection with Avenida Baltra. Turn left onto Avenida Baltra and follow the road. After about 15 minutes, you will see signs for the Giant Tortoise Reserve. The walk should take approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on your pace.
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Bicycle
Rent a bicycle from one of the many rental shops in Puerto Ayora. Once you have your bike, start on Avenida Charles Darwin and head towards Avenida Baltra. Turn left onto Avenida Baltra and continue riding straight. The roads are generally safe for biking, and you will enjoy the scenery along the way. Look for signage indicating the direction to 'Rancho Primicias' as you ride. The bike ride will take around 20 to 30 minutes.
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Taxi
While you may not be traveling by car, you can still opt for a taxi or a shared taxi (also called a 'taxi colectivo'). From the center of Puerto Ayora, find a taxi by waiting near the main dock area or calling one. Inform the driver that you want to go to 'Rancho Primicias - Giant Tortoise Reserve'. The ride usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes, and you can expect to pay a small fee for this service.
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