Los Gemelos
Explore the awe-inspiring Twin Craters (Los Gemelos) on Santa Cruz Island, a geological marvel surrounded by lush Scalesia forest.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler, misty, best for birds
Los Gemelos
Best Time
Cooler, misty, best for birds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the awe-inspiring Twin Craters (Los Gemelos) on Santa Cruz Island, a geological marvel surrounded by lush Scalesia forest.
"Our walk through the forest to see the Twin Craters was so refreshing and peaceful!"
Taxi Fare Negotiation
Negotiate taxi fares to Los Gemelos & other highland sites beforehand to avoid surprises. :taxi:
Combine with Tortoise Farms
Visit Los Gemelos alongside giant tortoise ranches and lava tunnels for a complete highland tour. :turtle:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Twin Craters
Santa Cruz Island Highlands
Two massive volcanic pits formed by magma chamber collapse, offering a unique geological spectacle.

Scalesia Forest Trail
Path around the craters
A refreshing walk through lush, misty forests teeming with diverse birdlife.

Pit Crater Scenery
Rim of Los Gemelos
Unexpected, impressive views of volcanic formations, perfect for a quick, awe-inspiring stop.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Los Gemelos
Getting to Los Gemelos
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Taxi Fare Negotiation
Negotiate taxi fares to Los Gemelos & other highland sites beforehand to avoid surprises. :taxi:
Combine with Tortoise Farms
Visit Los Gemelos alongside giant tortoise ranches and lava tunnels for a complete highland tour. :turtle:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The walking trails are well-maintained but comfortable shoes are recommended for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Binoculars
Enhance birdwatching in the Scalesia forest with a good pair of binoculars. :binoculars:
Advice for time between land based day trips in Galapagos
Tips
from all over the internet
Taxi Fare Negotiation
Negotiate taxi fares to Los Gemelos & other highland sites beforehand to avoid surprises. :taxi:
Combine with Tortoise Farms
Visit Los Gemelos alongside giant tortoise ranches and lava tunnels for a complete highland tour. :turtle:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The walking trails are well-maintained but comfortable shoes are recommended for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Binoculars
Enhance birdwatching in the Scalesia forest with a good pair of binoculars. :binoculars:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Los Gemelos to be a refreshing and extraordinary natural wonder, particularly appreciating the peaceful walk through the Scalesia Forest and the unique geological scenery of the twin craters. It's often recommended as a worthwhile stop when exploring the highlands of Santa Cruz Island.
"Our walk through the forest to see the Twin Craters with a guide was so refreshing and peaceful! It was cool and misty, and we saw many different birds. Really an extraordinary place, recommended to admire the beautiful nature of the Highlands! We went here as part of a 2-week yacht cruise on Coral I with "Go Galapagos" around the Galapagos, in December 2024."
Eileen Weed
"Los Gemelos spanish name…. Worth to visit and cost me $60 from the channel to ranch giant turtle n lava tunnel n town via private taxi.. else directly to town about 25-30 usd"
G Santana
"Los Gemelos (or The Twin Craters) are two large pits on the highlands of Santa Cruz Island that were caused by the collapse of empty magma chambers after a volcanic uprising. There is a nice walking trail that leads up to and then around the rim of both craters. The hike takes you through the wonderful Scalesia Forest, which is full of bird life."
Marc Cooper
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach Los Gemelos is by taxi from Puerto Ayora. The drive takes about 30-40 minutes. Many visitors opt for a taxi tour that includes stops at other highland attractions like giant tortoise ranches and lava tunnels. It's advisable to negotiate the taxi fare for the entire trip beforehand to ensure a clear understanding of the cost.
Yes, Los Gemelos is frequently included in guided tours of Santa Cruz Island's highlands. These tours often combine visits to the twin craters with other popular sites, offering a convenient way to experience multiple attractions in one day.
Public transport options directly to Los Gemelos are limited. Taxis are the most practical and widely used mode of transport for tourists. If you're on a tight budget, consider joining a group tour to share costs.
The journey from Puerto Ayora to Los Gemelos typically takes around 30 to 40 minutes by car, depending on traffic and road conditions.
While the craters themselves are a natural formation, access might be part of a larger tour or private taxi arrangement that has associated costs. Confirm with your tour operator or taxi driver about any included fees.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There isn't a specific ticket booth for Los Gemelos itself, as it's a natural geological site. However, if you visit as part of a guided tour or a private taxi excursion that includes other attractions like tortoise ranches, there might be bundled entry fees. Always clarify what's included in your tour package.
Los Gemelos is an outdoor natural attraction and is generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no strict opening or closing times, but it's best to visit when there's sufficient light for exploration and photography.
Since Los Gemelos doesn't have a formal ticketing system, advance booking isn't necessary for the site itself. If you're booking a tour that includes Los Gemelos, it's wise to book your tour in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
Mornings are often recommended for a visit to Los Gemelos due to the cooler, misty atmosphere and better opportunities for birdwatching. The light can also be quite beautiful during these hours.
A visit to Los Gemelos typically lasts about 30 minutes to an hour, allowing time to walk the trails around the craters and enjoy the scenery. This can be extended if you spend more time birdwatching or taking photos.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
At Los Gemelos, you can walk along the trails that circle the rim of the twin pit craters, observe the unique Scalesia forest ecosystem, and spot various bird species. It's a great spot for photography and appreciating the volcanic landscape.
The trails around Los Gemelos are generally well-maintained and relatively easy to navigate. They are mostly flat with some gentle inclines, making them suitable for most visitors. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
The Scalesia forest surrounding Los Gemelos is a haven for various bird species, including Darwin's finches and short-eared owls. Keep an eye out for these and other endemic wildlife during your visit.
Yes, Los Gemelos is suitable for children. The walking trails are not overly strenuous, and the unique landscape can be fascinating for younger visitors. Adult supervision is always recommended.
It's recommended to bring water, sunscreen, a hat, insect repellent, and a camera. Binoculars can enhance birdwatching opportunities. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring the trails.
📸 📸 Photography
The dramatic scale of the twin pit craters offers stunning photographic opportunities. Capture the vastness from the rim, the unique Scalesia forest, and any wildlife you encounter. The misty mornings can add a mystical quality to your shots.
Early mornings often provide soft, diffused light and a mystical atmosphere due to the mist, which can be excellent for photography. Late afternoons can offer warmer, golden light.
Drone regulations in the Galapagos National Park are strict. It's generally not permitted to fly drones over natural sites like Los Gemelos without special permits. Always check the latest regulations before flying.
For the crater shots, a wide-angle lens is ideal to capture the scale. For wildlife, a telephoto lens is useful. Consider shooting in RAW format to allow for more flexibility in post-processing, especially if dealing with varying light conditions.
Yes, you can take photos of the wildlife, but always maintain a respectful distance and avoid disturbing the animals. The Scalesia forest is home to many endemic birds, offering great opportunities for nature photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pro-tip: Combine your visit with a trip to a nearby giant tortoise ranch. Seeing these gentle giants after exploring the craters provides a well-rounded highland adventure that appeals to all ages. Ensure children stay on marked paths and are supervised.
🚶 Nature Enthusiasts & Birdwatchers
Recommendation: Bring binoculars and a field guide to enhance your birdwatching experience. Consider visiting in the early morning when bird activity is often at its peak and the misty atmosphere adds to the ambiance.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology of Los Gemelos
Walking the trails around Los Gemelos offers a unique perspective on this geological phenomenon. You can observe the steep walls of the craters and the surrounding landscape, which is a stark contrast to the coastal areas of the islands. The presence of these craters is a reminder of the volcanic origins of the Galapagos archipelago and the dynamic processes that continue to shape its environment. It's a fascinating glimpse into the earth's internal processes.
Exploring the Scalesia Forest
Visitors often describe the forest as cool, misty, and incredibly refreshing, especially when contrasted with the warmer coastal regions. It's an ideal habitat for Darwin's finches, and with a bit of patience and perhaps binoculars, you might spot several different species. Other avian residents include the Galapagos hawk and various flycatchers. The biodiversity within this specific forest type is a highlight for many visitors.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit