The Galápagos Islands - Adventure Guide to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands - page 407

The research station is important for understanding the magic of the
Galápagos and its struggle to survive. At the main visitor's center are
numerous exhibits that describe the archipelago's natural history,
geology, historical issues, and conservation efforts. Slide shows are
also presented here in several different languages. Farther along the
main walkway is the tortoise conservation and rearing center. Learn
about the natural history of the remaining endemic subspecies, as
well as other ongoing projects. In addition, you can visit the center's
tortoise incubation and repatriation facilities, where repopulating ef-
forts continue at full speed. There are several small beaches nearby
that are great for relaxing.
Back in town, the ocean-front street is a good place to pick up a souve-
nir or relax with a drink and a sunset view of Academy Bay. Prices
here are a bit higher than on the mainland. Don't expect at the last
minute to find an inexpensive, disposable underwater camera. They
cost up to $25 here, compared to $15 in Quito. While you are lounging
about near the shoreline, the wildlife - including marine iguanas,
pelicans, and other shorebirds - may join you. Pangas , the little rub-
ber motorboats, wait as water taxis at the pier to transport passen-
gers between the island and their boats. Arrange to have a crew
member pick you up, or take a water taxi for just over $1.
Just southwest of town lies another interesting sight - Turtle Bay ,
with one of the nicer beaches in the islands. Take the self-guided trail
near the Pacífictel telephone office and walk for about 45 minutes to
the white-sand beach. There you may find various seabirds, marine
iguanas, and perhaps a shark or two.
In the interior of Santa Cruz, you can also explore the highland eco-
system. There are a few trailed areas worth inquiring about if you
have an extra day or two on the island before or after a tour, including
lava tubes, sinkholes, and a tortoise reserve. There are tours of eight
days or longer that explore the highlands, so be sure to inquire if you
are interested.
Puerto Ayora is the hub of tourist activity on the islands and has the
best modern facilities. Plenty of shops, restaurants, and bars line the
main waterfront. Most everything is located along Av. Charles Dar-
win - the main road adjacent to the water. Post and communications
are also available here (see Visitor Information , page 397, for spe-
cifics).
On the north side of the island are a couple of visitor sites for boat
tours that generally begin or end at the nearby Baltra Island (across
the channel). Las Bachas offers a beach landing just west of the