Location
Santa Cruz, Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

In our constant quest to offer distinctive immersions in nature, we offer this unique one-night safari-style camping excursion on all scheduled Galapagos adventures. Ascend from the sea into the lush highlands of Santa Cruz to reach Nat Hab's exclusive Tortoise Camp, set on a gently rolling mountainside overlooking the distant Pacific Ocean. Here amid Scalesia forest and subterranean lava caves, guests have an intimate encounter with nature. Here, you'll find our Scalesia forest restoration zone where, since 2022, Nat Hab and our guests have planted more than 1,000 of this important tree, endemic to the islands and habitat for myriad diverse plants and animals. However, invasive species and historical deforestation threatens the Scalesia forests, making their conservation a high priority.

The environs around our camp are native habitat for several dozen Galapagos giant tortoises, which we regularly see from July through February. From March through June, the tortoises typically move to lower elevations, though a handful often remain at the campsite. During these months, we make an excursion to a nearby tortoise reserve for close-up sightings.

With rustic charm, Tortoise Camp provides matchless proximity to wild tortoises in their natural habitat, as well as creature comforts for guests. Accommodations are in two-person, safari-style raised platform tents and whimsical treehouses, furnished with cozy, comfortable beds. Tents and treehouses have en-suite flush toilets and small sinks. Tent bathrooms also have showers, while treehouse guests use showers at the nearby shared bathhouse. The camp chef prepares a full dinner and breakfast, served in the covered open-air dining room. The adjoining sheltered lounge space offers relaxing seating in front of a crackling log fire. A bar is also available for evening drinks and socializing.

In the morning, a bus picks us up for the return trip to the sea where we reboard our ship. If you choose to participate in this special camping option, you will not miss any activities on your daily itinerary.

Please Note: While beds and toilets are provided with all accommodations, there is an element of "roughing it" at Tortoise Camp. Some challenges may include walking over uneven terrain and spying a few critters (particularly the wonderful variety of insects and arachnids that inhabit the island). Also, should it be rainy, we'll have to walk through environs that may get muddy. It is our hope that the unique setting and remarkable proximity to wild tortoises will more than outweigh any discomfort. But our guests always have the choice to participate in this overnight stay or to remain on the ship. Camping on Santa Cruz is a special opportunity, though only you can determine if it is one that you will truly enjoy. The great majority of our guests do! A stay at Tortoise Camp is weather-dependent.