Enchanting Encounters with Galapagos Giants

As the sun rises over Puerto Ayora on October 26th, the air is filled with the promise of adventure. The weather is comfortably cool, with temperatures ranging from 67.2°F to 72.6°F, making it an ideal day to explore the natural wonders of the Galápagos Islands. Begin your Halloween weekend with a morning visit to the Giant Tortoise Experience, available from 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM. This three-hour tour offers an intimate encounter with the iconic Galapagos giant tortoises in their natural habitat. Led by a certified Galapagos Naturalist Guide, you’ll journey through the lush Santa Cruz Highlands, where the majestic Los Gemelos sinkholes and mysterious lava tubes await.

The tour is not just about observing these ancient creatures; it’s an educational experience that delves into the history, geology, and ecology of the Galapagos Archipelago. As you walk through the reserve, you’ll gain insights into the delicate balance of this unique ecosystem. One recent visitor shared,

“Excellent Guide + Educational Experience - My daughter and I took The Giant Tortoise Experience private tour with Andre; this tour also included the lava tunnels and the huge sinkholes in the area. Andre has a vast amount of knowledge about the tortoises, as well as the flora and fauna of the islands; he is very experienced and professional. His commentary made this one of the most interesting tours during our week at the Galapagos. So enjoyable, I highly recommend Galapagos Outdoors tours!” (Reviewed on 2021-01-25)

After the tour, take a moment to reflect on the incredible biodiversity you’ve witnessed, and perhaps enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local café, savoring the flavors of Ecuadorian cuisine.

Cycling Through the Heart of the Galapagos

As the afternoon sun casts a golden glow over Puerto Ayora, it’s time to embark on a different kind of adventure. The Giant Turtles and Lava Tunnels Tour offers a unique blend of cycling and exploration, available from 1:00 PM to 5:30 PM. This tour begins at San Francisco Park, where you’ll collect your bike and catch a bus to Los Guayabillos. From there, you’ll descend into the Galapagos Frontier reserve, guided by a seasoned naturalist with over three decades of experience.

Pedal through the transition zone’s forest, where the sight of giant tortoises and the sound of endemic birds like Darwin’s finch create a symphony of nature. The tour also includes a visit to two volcanic passageways, where you’ll learn about the formation of the Galapagos Islands. One participant described their experience:

“Bikes, Turtles and Lava Tunnels for a Memorable Morning! - Fantastic tour in the highlands of Santa Cruz. We met with Julio Cesar first by the pier who then took us on a bicycle ride to the reserve, which was great in itself. Then the reserve itself was awesome with a walk through the jungle where we met many turtles (some as old as 170!) in the wild. We ended with a tour through the fascinating lava tunnels then completed with a downhill bike ride back into Puerto Ayora. The whole morning was a great experience with knowledgeable enthusiastic guides. Highly recommended!!” (Reviewed on 2024-06-24)

As the day winds down, enjoy a refreshing juice made from the reserve’s fruit trees, a perfect way to end an exhilarating day of exploration.

A Halloween to Remember in Puerto Ayora

On October 27th, the weather remains pleasantly cool, with temperatures peaking at 71.9°F. The day begins with overcast skies, gradually giving way to partly cloudy conditions, providing a dramatic backdrop for your Halloween adventures. Start your day with another opportunity to join the Giant Tortoise Experience from 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM, or opt for the afternoon session from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM.

For those who prefer a morning of cycling, the Giant Turtles and Lava Tunnels Tour is available from 8:30 AM to 1:00 PM. This tour offers a chance to see the Galapagos from a different perspective, as you cycle through the lush landscapes and explore the hidden wonders of the islands.

As the sun sets at 5:49 PM, casting a warm glow over the island, take a moment to reflect on the incredible experiences of the weekend. Whether you’ve marveled at the ancient tortoises, explored the depths of lava tunnels, or cycled through the heart of the Galapagos, this Halloween weekend in Puerto Ayora is sure to be an unforgettable adventure.