Car Rental in Puerto Ayora | Compare Cheap Car Hire Puerto Ayora

Landmarks in Puerto Ayora
Last updated: Jul 23, 2025

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Car Rental Information for Puerto Ayora

About Puerto Ayora

Puerto Ayora is the vibrant main town on Santa Cruz Island in the Galápagos archipelago, Ecuador. It serves as the gateway for exploring the Galápagos Islands, one of the world’s most renowned natural laboratories of evolution and biodiversity. The town itself offers a charming blend of local culture, eco-tourism infrastructure, and access to pristine natural environments. Visitors are drawn to Puerto Ayora for its unique wildlife encounters, including giant tortoises in the nearby Charles Darwin Research Station, and the chance to snorkel or dive with sea lions, colorful fish, and marine turtles. The town’s relaxed atmosphere, combined with its ecological significance, makes it a compelling destination for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure travelers alike. Its location within a protected national park ensures that the natural beauty and wildlife remain largely untouched, providing an unforgettable experience. Puerto Ayora also offers a variety of accommodations, restaurants, and shops, making it a comfortable base for exploring the surrounding islands.

Rental Requirements

  • Valid driver's license
  • Credit card in driver's name
  • Minimum age: 21 (25 for some vehicles)

Popular Rental Companies

  • Hertz
  • Avis
  • Enterprise
  • Budget

Driving in Puerto Ayora

Do you need to rent a car for Puerto Ayora?
Renting a car in Puerto Ayora is generally unnecessary and uncommon for tourists. The town is small and walkable, and most attractions are accessible by foot, taxi, or boat. Major car rental companies are limited or unavailable on Santa Cruz Island. If a vehicle is rented, expect daily costs around $40-60 USD, with requirements including a valid driver’s license and minimum age of 21 or 25 depending on the company. Roads are mostly paved but can be narrow and busy near the town center. Parking is limited and often restricted. For most visitors, relying on walking, taxis, and organized tours is more practical and cost-effective than renting a car.

Explore Puerto Ayora

Things to Do in Puerto Ayora

Visitors to Puerto Ayora can enjoy snorkeling with sea lions, scuba diving among vibrant coral reefs, kayaking along pristine coastlines, and hiking nature trails to spot endemic wildlife. Guided boat tours to nearby islands provide opportunities for birdwatching and exploring volcanic landscapes. Cultural experiences include visiting local markets and dining on fresh seafood. Nighttime wildlife tours and photography excursions are also popular.

Essential Puerto Ayora Information

Type: City
Currency: USD
Timezone: America/Guayaquil
Best Time to Visit: Best time to visit is during the dry season from June to December.
Languages: Spanish, English

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