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Las Grietas, Puerto Ayora

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#1 of 27 in Things to do in Puerto Ayora
Geologic Formation Nature / Park
Swim in crystal clear waters surrounded by craggy rock walls at Las Grietas. You'll find plenty of incredible nature on the path to the relatively hidden swimming spot, which you can reach by crossing a rocky lava field and walking by a cactus forest, before finally descending to the cool waters. Jump off the rock platform to make a splash, or grab your snorkel to check out the mysteries that lie beneath the surface. Don't forget to wear a pair of water-appropriate shoes, as the path can be extremely painful in bare feet. Our Puerto Ayora vacation route planner makes visiting Las Grietas and other Puerto Ayora attractions simple, and helps you make a travel plan personal to you.
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  • We are grateful to Nature Galapagos Tours and our guide Cesar for taking us to Las Grietas to snorkel. The walk there was beautiful and once we arrived, we had a wonderful view of the lava crevice fro...  more »
  • I was in the month of August time of temperate climate ideal for walking with children. The cracks is an entry of seawater in the midst of some rock formations. To get it you have to take a taxi boat in puerto ayora for $1, who leaves you on the other side then you have to take a path for 20 minutes, passing through some of the best hotels in the area. The trail is perfectly defined and signposted. When you get the beautiful place will surprise you the turquoise water and the rocks formed by the passage of time. To delve into the water you must know to swim or life jacket. Don't forget your mask to enjoy the colorful fish and the abyss of depth. You're going to have much fun. On the way back don't forget to visit the viewpoint and lounging on the beach known as beach of the Germans.
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  • Looking back you involuntarily over the edge who jerks Gorge before the crowds. Swimming in the Gorge is then quite nice. The snorkeling is only a limited yield. Can be no question of biodiversity. At the entrance (free!) you can register. The number of visitors in the Gorge bottom is limited to 48. By a short path on the edge of the Gorge, surrounded by the usual stop signs there are a few nice perspectives.
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  • This is one of my favorite places of the world. I definitely suggest visit it. You are able to swim in the middle of two cracks and make snorkeling. I saw a lot of fishes. If you cannot swim well I suggest using a life best or armbands.
  • So worth the adventurous walk to get here. Bring your mask, snorkel and wet shoes (rocks are super slippery) and anything else you need - drinking water, towels, sunscreen, and enjoy a gorgeous unique swimming between the rocky canyon walls. We loved it!! PS this canyon swimming spot is at least 15 minutes hike past the first Las Grietas lagoon beach area. Keep going and going so worth the trip.
  • Peaceful if you arrive as early as possible
  • Amazing and beautiful! The water is cool and calm, and not as salty as the ocean. Rent snorkel gear before you arrive because you can't rent it there.
  • Nice excursion from town, snorkeling equipment or goggles are advisable. Proceed beyond the first pool to avoid the crowds.
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Where to stay in Puerto Ayora

As a popular jumping-off point for Galapagos visitors, Puerto Ayora receives loads of tourists, and therefore features many of the accommodation options you might expect from a major destination. Though there are types of lodging to suit all kinds of budgets, prices in general tend to be higher in Puerto Ayora than in mainland Ecuador. The more upscale hotels catering to wealthier visitors lie along the waterfront in the vicinity of Avenida Charles Darwin, and offer excellent access to the sea, port, and restaurant scene. Consider renting out a private apartment room or staying in a smaller-scale hotel a few blocks back from the ocean in order to cut down on costs, as the city itself is easily walkable.
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