How to arrive to Puerto Ayora
Welcome to the Galapagos Islands! As soon as you land at GPS airport, the magic of this unique destination starts to unfold. You might even be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of land iguanas basking in the sun as you walk to the airport terminal, the only Eco Airport Terminal in the world.
Before you can start exploring, you'll need to go through the Consejo de Gobierno Counter and pay the entry fee to the National Park. It's recommended to have cash on hand, as this is the only payment method accepted. Be sure to keep your entry card with you at all times, as you'll need to show it upon departure.
Next, you'll pass through an ABG x-ray filter to ensure that no prohibited goods are allowed into the fragile ecosystem of the island. To add to the excitement, some adorable canine police dogs will even sniff your luggage before you can claim it.
Once you have your luggage, head outside the terminal to catch the Lobito Bus for $5.00 each way to the Itabaca Channel. The friendly bus porters will help you with your bags. Upon arrival at the Santa Cruz side of the channel, you can take a taxi for $25.00 per car (up to 4 people) or a bus for $5.00 per person to reach your final destination.
The journey from Itabaca to Blu Galapagos, formerly known as Red Mangrove, is not just a mode of transportation but a fascinating educational experience. As you travel from north to south across the island, you'll notice the vegetation changing from small dry Palo Santo trees to lush greenery. You'll cross the island through the magnificent Gemelos Craters and witness the diverse microclimates that exist in the Galapagos, from the arid desert-like areas to the cloudier and more humid regions.
As you continue your journey, you'll come across the small towns of Santa Rosa and El Carmen, where Blu Galapagos has its Rancho el Carmen with resident tortoises. The south side of the island is known for its rainfall and agriculture, which is due to the moist air from the south current accumulating in the mountains and generating rain.
As you approach the town, you'll see Bellavista, and soon you'll arrive at the welcoming and safe haven of Blu Galapagos. We can't wait to greet you and share our expertise on Galapagos with you, providing a unique and sustainable travel experience that you'll never forget