Around Puerto Ayora

Puerto Ayora consists of one main thoroughfare, so local transportation needs are generally satisfied by your own two feet. Many of the local residents have bicycles for getting around, but unless you are planning to visit Puerto Ayora’s surrounding residential neighborhoods, you should not require one. Bicycling is a fun way to get to know the town, though, if you are stuck for things to do or want to act like a local.

Bicycles are also a good way to travel to visitor sites on Santa Cruz within a two- or three-hour radius (which are most visitor sites), but expect some physical challenge pedaling through the highlands. Rentals start at USD 10 per day; tours with a guide and/or support vehicle are also available. Transportation within the bay—either to the Playa de los Alemanes and Las Grietas or to the boats anchored there—is serviced with water-taxis.

If you want to visit the non-National Park sites on your own (i.e. without a guide and other tourists), you will have to arrange your own transportation. You can contract a taxi to take you anywhere on Santa Cruz (the price for which is negotiable and should be arranged ahead of time, but you should expect to pay about $10/hour). This can often result in an inexpensive, interesting, and personalized experience, since the taxi drivers will undoubtedly serve as your tour guide for the day and give you a resident’s perspective.