Activities
Deepen your experience of the Galapagos Islands through eco-tourism and other activities offered exclusively by Hacienda Tranquila.
Day and Overnight Visitors
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Camping
We have camping facilities available for day and overnight visitors to the ranch. We have partnered with several local tour guides and agencies who book the camping facilities periodically throughout the year. For those who would like to get away and spend a night or two under the stars, camping is also available on a bespoke basis to small groups and individuals.
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Horseback Trail Riding
Horseback trail rides typically take half a day. The route for the ascent is along a scenic trail bordering the hacienda and the national park. It passes through and under endemic trees covered with hanging moss, which always remind me of the trees depicted in the Dr.Suess books that I read growing up. The trail is fairly narrow and steep at places but the horses are sure footed and know it well. Near the summit we dismount and climb the last ten minutes on foot until we reach the lookout point where we rest, refuel and recharge while enjoying the stunning vistas. Needless to say, photo opportunities abound along the way but the view from the summit is especially impressive. Kicker Rock, Islas Lobos and the lovely coves and beaches along the north coast are on display. We climb down a different path and reunite with the horses which have been brought around. The ride back begins with a trail where fresh endemic fruit can be picked from the saddle, but it soon opens up into a dirt road where the more comfortable riders are able to canter and gallop. On the final section of the descent we stop and pick some of the local Guava fruit, which is nothing like the Guava that we know elsewhere, before crossing the moss-covered rocks in the gorge which borders our property on the west. Once back at the ranch house we usually enjoy some drinks and a snack while sharing our reflections on the day.
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Fruit Picking
Visitors are free to consume, and carry home, as much fruit as they are able to pick.
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Tree Planting
Young seedlings and saplings are available for anyone who would like to plant a tree or two. We are able to source endemic varieties at minimal or no cost, as well as varieties found elsewhere at a slightly higher cost, and there is plenty of open space for planting. We encourage visitors to connect with the land through digging a few holes and getting their hands dirty. We will be responsible for the ongoing care so that you will be able to revisit periodically and enjoy the growth of your trees, shrubs and flowers.
Other activities available on the hacienda are:
- Hiking
- Birdwatching
- Mountain Biking
