Morning: Tortuga Bay Beach
Cross a scenic trail surrounded by cactus forests and natural silence to reach Playa Brava and Playa Mansa, two breathtaking beaches adorned with exotic plants, red mangroves, and prickly pear cacti.
Sea turtles, iguanas, and sea lions nest undisturbed on these beaches of brilliant white sand, soft as talcum powder. The landscape is enhanced by dark volcanic rocks and turquoise waters, ideal for surfing, kayaking, diving, and snorkeling.
At Playa Brava, only surfing is allowed due to strong currents. To the west, a small lagoon near the mangroves is perfect for snorkeling and observing multicolored fish. You may also spot seagulls, pelicans, finches, marine iguanas, and vibrant crabs.
A short walk through a cactus forest brings you to Playa Mansa, a tranquil inlet ideal for swimming, kayaking, and snorkeling. From the shore, you can often see marine iguanas, sharks, turtles, and rays.
Tortuga Bay is also a nesting site for black turtles — please avoid stepping on dunes or disturbing nests. The mangroves here sustain a rich food chain, attracting pelicans, frigate birds, and countless marine species, making it a premier ecotourism site.
The Tortuga Bay Trail is 2.5 km long and takes approximately 50 minutes to walk.
Afternoon: Charles Darwin Research Station
Founded in 1964 and operated by the Charles Darwin Foundation, this biological research center hosts over a hundred scientists, educators, volunteers, and students from around the world. They work continuously on research and conservation projects for the Galapagos marine and terrestrial ecosystems.
The station includes a Natural History Interpretation Center and offers educational programs that support the Galapagos National Park (GNP) — the main governmental body responsible for conserving the islands’ natural resources.