Rancho Primicias

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Tortoises resting in a pond at turtle sanctuary Rancho Primicias, Santa Cruz, Galapagos, Ecuador.

Next to El Chato Tortoise Reserve is this private ranch, where there are dozens of giant tortoises, and you can wander around at will. The entrance is beyond Santa Rosa, off the main road – ask locals for directions. Remember to close any gates that you go through. There is a cafe selling cold drinks and hot tea, which is welcome if the highland mist has soaked you.

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