Wild Giant Tortoise Sanctuary (Primicias / El Chato Ranch)
Walk alongside iconic Galapagos giant tortoises in their natural highland sanctuary amidst lush meadows and cloud forests.
Ascend to the Santa Cruz highlands to enter a private ecological reserve where hundreds of Galapagos giant tortoises (Chelonoidis porteri) roam freely, grazing in meadows and wallowing in natural mud ponds. Includes walking through massive underground volcanic lava tunnels.
Observable year-round. Between June and December tortoises migrate in huge numbers to the highland slopes for lush forage.
What you will see
- Galapagos Giant Tortoise
- Darwin's Finch
- Vermilion Flycatcher
Highlights
- Close encounters with iconic tortoises exceeding 450 lbs
- Walkthrough inside illuminated ancient volcanic lava tubes
Tours that include it
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time for this activity?
All year round. Observable year-round. Between June and December tortoises migrate in huge numbers to the highland slopes for lush forage.
How long does it take?
Half Day (3-4 hours)
Which animals can I see?
Galapagos Giant Tortoise, Darwin's Finch, Vermilion Flycatcher
How demanding is it?
easy
Is it included in any of our tours?
Yes, it is part of: Galapagos Encounter: 6-Day Expedition; Galapagos Explorer: 7-Day Island Expedition; Galapagos Grand Odyssey: 8-Day 3-Island Expedition; Ecuador & Galapagos Signature Highlights: 11 Days.
Add it to your trip
We build you a private trip with this activity, on your dates and at your pace.