Puerto Ayora Cruise Port
Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz, Galapagos
Puerto Ayora, located on the island of Santa Cruz in the Galapagos, is a vibrant and bustling town.

The cruise port in Puerto Ayora,
explained
Puerto Ayora, located on the island of Santa Cruz in the Galapagos, is a vibrant and bustling town. It is the largest settlement in the Galapagos and is home to a variety of restaurants, shops, and hotels.
The town is a popular tourist destination, offering a variety of activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, and hiking. The Charles Darwin Research Station is also located in Puerto Ayora, providing visitors with the opportunity to learn more about the unique wildlife and ecosystems of the Galapagos.
The town is also home to a variety of wildlife, including sea lions, iguanas, and giant tortoises. Puerto Ayora is a great place to explore the beauty of the Galapagos and experience the unique wildlife and culture of the islands.
Price drops on cruises to Puerto Ayora.
122 cruises stop here in Puerto Ayora during the next 12 months. The cruise price drops below represent the largest decrease in price against each Puerto Ayora cruise's 90-day average.
Where is Puerto Ayora Cruise Port?
Puerto Ayora is located on the southern coast of Santa Cruz Island in the Galapagos Islands. It is the largest town in the Galapagos and the main port of entry for cruise ships. The port is located in the center of town, close to restaurants, shops, and other attractions. It is also close to the Charles Darwin Research Station, which is a great place to learn more about the unique wildlife of the Galapagos.
- General location
- South America
- Category
- Galapagos
- Coordinates
- 0.75°S, 90.31°W
- Time zone
- Pacific/Galapagos
What to do in Puerto Ayora
A shortlist of places worth your hours ashore, grouped by the kind of day you want.
Ways to spend the day
3 themesKayaking
Kayaking in Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz, Galapagos is a great way to explore the island and its unique wildlife. You can paddle around the island and get up close and personal with the wildlife. The waters are calm and the views are stunning. Kayaking is a great way to get some exercise and experience the beauty of the Galapagos Islands from a different perspective.
Hiking
Hiking in Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz, Galapagos is a great way to explore the island and its unique wildlife. The trails are well-marked and offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. You can explore the lush vegetation, spot wildlife, and take in the breathtaking views of the ocean. Hiking is a great way to get some exercise and experience the beauty of the Galapagos Islands.
Snorkeling
Snorkeling in Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz, Galapagos is an amazing experience. The crystal clear waters of the Galapagos Islands are home to a variety of marine life, including sea turtles, sea lions, and a variety of colorful fish. Snorkeling is a great way to explore the underwater world and get up close and personal with the wildlife. With the right equipment, you can even explore the depths of the ocean and discover the hidden secrets of the Galapagos.
Puerto Ayora cruise port beaches
3 in our guideLas Grietas
Las Grietas is another popular beach near Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz, Galapagos cruise port. It is a unique beach with a deep canyon-like formation that is filled with crystal clear waters. It is a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. The beach is also a great place to relax and take in the stunning views of the surrounding islands.
Tortuga Bay
Tortuga Bay is one of the most popular beaches near Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz, Galapagos cruise port. It is a beautiful white sand beach with crystal clear waters and a variety of wildlife. The beach is a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. It is also a great place to relax and take in the stunning views of the surrounding islands.
Playa de los Alemanes
Playa de los Alemanes is a popular beach near Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz, Galapagos cruise port. It is a beautiful white sand beach with crystal clear waters and a variety of wildlife. The beach is a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. It is also a great place to relax and take in the stunning views of the surrounding islands.
The Charles Darwin Research Station
The Charles Darwin Research Station is a scientific research station located in Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz, Galapagos. It was founded in 1964 and is dedicated to the conservation of the Galapagos Islands and its unique species. The station is home to a variety of research projects, including the breeding of endangered species, the restoration of habitats, and the study of the islands' geology and climate. It also serves as a visitor center, offering educational programs and guided tours.
The Galapagos Islands
The Galapagos Islands are a group of volcanic islands located in the Pacific Ocean, off the coast of Ecuador. The islands are home to a variety of unique species, including giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and a variety of birds. The islands are also home to a variety of plants and animals that are found nowhere else in the world. The islands are a popular destination for tourists, as they offer a unique opportunity to observe and interact with the wildlife in its natural habitat.
Tortuga Bay
Tortuga Bay is a beautiful beach located in Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz, Galapagos. It is a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. The beach is home to a variety of wildlife, including sea turtles, sea lions, and a variety of birds. It is also a great spot for birdwatching, as the area is home to a variety of species, including the Galapagos penguin. The beach is also a great spot for sunbathing and relaxing.
Puerto Ayora cruise port shopping
3 in our guideGalapagos Art Gallery
Galapagos Art Gallery is a great place to find unique artwork from the Galapagos Islands. Located in the heart of Puerto Ayora, this gallery offers a wide selection of pieces, from paintings and sculptures to photographs and prints. The gallery also has a variety of local art and crafts, such as hand-painted wooden figures and hand-woven baskets. Prices are reasonable and the staff is friendly and helpful.
Galapagos Souvenir Shop
Galapagos Souvenir Shop is a great place to find unique souvenirs from the Galapagos Islands. Located in the heart of Puerto Ayora, this shop offers a wide selection of items, from t-shirts and hats to jewelry and postcards. The shop also has a variety of local art and crafts, such as hand-painted wooden figures and hand-woven baskets. Prices are reasonable and the staff is friendly and helpful.
Galapagos Gift Shop
Galapagos Gift Shop is a great place to find unique gifts from the Galapagos Islands. Located in the heart of Puerto Ayora, this shop offers a wide selection of items, from t-shirts and hats to jewelry and postcards. The shop also has a variety of local art and crafts, such as hand-painted wooden figures and hand-woven baskets. Prices are reasonable and the staff is friendly and helpful.
Which Puerto Ayora cruise terminal will your ship use?
Your cruise line assigns the pier — here's what each one means for your day ashore.
Puerto Ayora Cruise Terminal
Av. Charles Darwin, Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz, Galapagos, EcuadorPuerto Ayora Cruise Terminal is the main cruise port in the Galapagos Islands. It is located in the town of Puerto Ayora on the island of Santa Cruz. The terminal is equipped with modern facilities and offers a variety of services for cruise passengers, including a restaurant, a bar, and a souvenir shop.
Puerto Villamil Cruise Terminal
Av. Charles Darwin, Puerto Villamil, Isabela, Galapagos, EcuadorPuerto Villamil Cruise Terminal is located in the town of Puerto Villamil on the island of Isabela. The terminal is equipped with modern facilities and offers a variety of services for cruise passengers, including a restaurant, a bar, and a souvenir shop. It is the third largest cruise port in the Galapagos Islands.
Puerto Baquerizo Moreno Cruise Terminal
Av. Charles Darwin, Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, San Cristobal, Galapagos, EcuadorPuerto Baquerizo Moreno Cruise Terminal is located in the town of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno on the island of San Cristobal. The terminal is equipped with modern facilities and offers a variety of services for cruise passengers, including a restaurant, a bar, and a souvenir shop. It is the second largest cruise port in the Galapagos Islands.
There are several places in Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz, Galapagos cruise port that offer free wifi access. These include the Galapagos National Park Visitor Center, the Charles Darwin Research Station, the Galapagos Interpretation Center, the Galapagos Art Space, the Galapagos Library, and the Galapagos Information Center. Additionally, many restaurants, cafes, and hotels in the area offer free wifi access.
Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz, Galapagos is generally considered to be a safe port for cruise ships. The Galapagos Islands are a protected area, and the Ecuadorian government takes great care to ensure the safety of visitors. There is a police presence in the port, and the local people are friendly and welcoming. However, as with any port, it is important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
Avenida Charles Darwin, Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz, Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
Piers are assigned by the cruise line — check your ship's docking notice the morning you arrive.
Most Popular Puerto Ayora Cruise Port Tours
Independent shore excursions in Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz, Galapagos, booked directly with the operator who runs them. We flag the ones that guarantee you're back on board before the gangway lifts.
Best Puerto Ayora shore tours
Curated from 3 · not a search resultCocoa and Cloud Forest private full day tour
360° Jungle Day Tour Expedition Amazonia Ecuador rainforest
Yasuní and Limoncocha 4-Day Wildlife Adventure
Puerto Ayora Cruise Port Weather
- High
- 77°F
- Low
- 65°F
- Rain
- 0.3 in
Average monthly temperature and rainfall. This month is highlighted.
Puerto Ayora Cruise Port Traffic Today
No cruise ships are scheduled in Puerto Ayora today, Thursday, September 3, 2026. Check the schedule for another date to see when ships are next due alongside.
Planning around the crowds?
- Puerto Ayora cruise port schedule 2026, day by day
- Slowest & busiest day analysis
- Complete cruise line & ship visitor list
Also on your cruise
100% of Puerto Ayora cruises also call at one of these.
Puerto Ayora cruise port, answered
The things cruisers ask most before a day ashore in Puerto Ayora.
Where is Puerto Ayora cruise port located?
Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz, Galapagos cruise port is located in South America. Puerto Ayora is located on the southern coast of Santa Cruz Island in the Galapagos Islands. It is the largest town in the Galapagos and the main port of entry for cruise ships. The port is located in the center of town, close to restaurants, shops, and other attractions. It is also close to the Charles Darwin Research Station, which is a great place to learn more about the unique wildlife of the Galapagos.
Is Puerto Ayora a good cruise port to visit?
Yes, Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz, Galapagos is a great cruise port. It is the largest town in the Galapagos Islands and is home to a variety of attractions, including the Charles Darwin Research Station, the Galapagos National Park, and the Tortuga Bay Beach. It is also a great spot for snorkeling, diving, and wildlife watching.
How safe is Puerto Ayora cruise port for passengers?
Puerto Ayora cruise port has a safety score of 8.4 out of 10, ranking #53 of 189 ports in South America. Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz, Galapagos is generally considered to be a safe port for cruise ships. The Galapagos Islands are a protected area, and the Ecuadorian government takes great care to ensure the safety of visitors. There is a police presence in the port, and the local people are friendly and welcoming. However, as with any port, it is important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
What is the weather like at Puerto Ayora cruise port in September?
In September, Puerto Ayora cruise port has average high temperatures of 77°F (25°C) and average lows of 65°F (18°C).
How many excursions are available at Puerto Ayora cruise port?
There are currently 3 excursions and tours available at Puerto Ayora cruise port, covering everything from guided sightseeing and cultural experiences to water sports and adventure activities. Book in advance to secure your preferred experience.
What are the top things to do at Puerto Ayora cruise port?
Puerto Ayora cruise port offers 3 featured activities and attractions. Popular highlights include: Kayaking, Hiking, Snorkeling. Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz, Galapagos is known for its incredible wildlife and natural beauty. It is a great place to explore the unique and diverse flora and fauna of the Galapagos Islands. Visitors can take part in a variety of activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, and hiking. There are also opportunities to observe the local wildlife, including giant tortoises, sea lions, and a variety of birds. The area is also home to a number of research centers and educational facilities, making it a great place to learn more about the unique environment of the Galapagos Islands.
Can I rent a car at Puerto Ayora cruise port?
1. Galapagos Rent a Car: Located in Puerto Ayora, Galapagos Rent a Car offers a variety of vehicles for rent, including 4x4s, sedans, and minivans. They also offer a variety of packages and discounts for cruise passengers.2. Galapagos Islands Car Rental: Located in Puerto Ayora, Galapagos Islands Car Rental offers a variety of vehicles for rent, including 4x4s, sedans, and minivans. They also offer a variety of packages and discounts for cruise passengers.3. Galapagos Car Rental: Located in Puerto Ayora, Galapagos Car Rental offers a variety of vehicles for rent, including 4x4s, sedans, and minivans. They also offer a variety of packages and discounts for cruise passengers.4. Galapagos Car Rental & Tours: Located in Puerto Ayora, Galapagos Car Rental & Tours offers a variety of vehicles for rent, including 4x4s, sedans, and minivans. They also offer a variety of packages and discounts for cruise passengers, as well as guided tours of the islands.
What is the WiFi situation at Puerto Ayora cruise port?
There are several places in Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz, Galapagos cruise port that offer free wifi access. These include the Galapagos National Park Visitor Center, the Charles Darwin Research Station, the Galapagos Interpretation Center, the Galapagos Art Space, the Galapagos Library, and the Galapagos Information Center. Additionally, many restaurants, cafes, and hotels in the area offer free wifi access.
Where is the cruise terminal at Puerto Ayora cruise port?
Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz, Galapagos cruise port is located at Avenida Charles Darwin, Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz, Galapagos Islands, Ecuador.
What is the Puerto Ayora Cruise Port cruise schedule?
There are no cruise ships scheduled at Puerto Ayora today. Use the cruise ship schedule above to check Puerto Ayora on any past or future date.
















