Laguna de las Ninfas, a beautiful saltwater lagoon near Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island, was a highlight of our Galapagos experience. The lagoon’s unique mix of salt and freshwater creates a special ecosystem, home to some fascinating species.
We strolled along the winding walkway that hugs the lagoon, surrounded by dense mangrove trees with labels for each species. There are also a few lookout spots along the path where we could pause, scan the clear waters for marine life, or simply relax in the quiet surroundings.
It seems that the boardwalk used to loop around the entire lagoon, but part of it is now damaged, so we had to turn back the way we came.
Walking around the lagoon shouldn’t take more than an hour, and perhaps less, depending on how many times you stop for photographs or a rest.
How to Get to Laguna de las Ninfas
Getting to Laguna de las Ninfas was easy since it’s right outside Puerto Ayora. We simply walked past the local grocery, following the road up. From there, we took the first left onto Moises Brito and then a second left to reach the lagoon’s entrance. It was only a short walk, making it a convenient stop to explore.
A Walk to the Nymphs Lagoon
It was a relaxed day for us. With a free morning to unwind, we decided to head to Laguna de las Ninfas in the afternoon, leaving our hostel around 3:00 p.m. Our day backpack was packed with a few snacks, ready for an easy-going outing.
Even though we had an idea of where we were going, we somehow lost track of the street names as we wandered toward the sea. Thankfully, Puerto Ayora is small enough that it’s hard to truly get lost. After rounding a corner onto a slightly busier street, we spotted the entrance to Laguna de las Ninfas right ahead.
As we passed the signboard and stepped onto the boardwalk, our first view of the lagoon was simply breathtaking. The path wound around the lagoon, alternating between solid ground and stretches over the water. Overhead, frigates soared gracefully, riding the afternoon thermals. Across the lagoon, towering rock cliffs rose dramatically, and it wasn’t hard to imagine pirates scaling those heights, cutlasses in hand.
The mangrove trees flanked the boardwalk, their roots gripping the lagoon’s edge, creating a network of hideaways for fish and birds alike.
As we strolled, we noticed small, separated pools near the cliffs, where the water was so crystal clear we could see straight to the bottom. Little fish darted between the rocks, and the stones looked like they’d be perfect for a bit of climbing.
As we ventured further, the lagoon’s water transformed from a brilliant turquoise green to a deep, entrancing blue—a beautiful, natural gradient that held us captivated. By the time we decided to make our way back, it was almost dinner time. We took a slight detour to the Malecon near the docks, soaking in the atmosphere as locals gathered to wind down their day.
Bottom Line
Exploring Laguna de las Ninfas is truly a relaxing experience. We’d definitely recommend stopping by if you have a couple of hours to unwind and take a calming stroll. The lagoon also makes for a peaceful lunch spot, perfect for taking in the tranquility of the surroundings.
Conveniently located between the Charles Darwin Research Station and Tortuga Bay, it’s easy to combine all three locations for a fulfilling day on Santa Cruz Island. However, if your time on the island is limited, you may want to prioritize other activities.
We didn’t spot too much wildlife at Laguna de las Ninfas, though we did catch sight of a few large fish and some interesting bird species. Personally, I think there are more exciting places to visit in the Galapagos. However, if you’re a bird-watching enthusiast, this spot might be worth the visit. Just remember to bring your sunscreen and insect repellent — they’re essential for a comfortable experience here!
