Los Gemelos: Exploring the Twin Craters of the Galápagos
The Galápagos Islands are known for their dramatic volcanic landscapes, unique wildlife, and untouched beauty. But tucked away in the highlands of Santa Cruz lies a gem—Los Gemelos, or The Twins—a pair of enormous sinkholes formed by ancient volcanic activity, surrounded by lush, misty forests.
Feb 1, 2025
We started our journey early in the morning, pedaling uphill from Puerto Ayora with the cool breeze still hanging in the air. The first 3 kilometers were gentle, offering occasional views of the coastline before the scenery transformed. As we climbed higher, the road became steeper, and the air grew denser with moisture and soft rain know as "Garua" locally.
Biking to Los Gemelos is not easy—but it’s absolutely rewarding. The route is about 20 km (12.5 miles) from Puerto Ayora, and the final stretch takes you through a lush, highland forest. The moment you reach the craters, breathless and legs aching, you’re rewarded with one of the most surreal views on the island: twin chasms carved into the earth, encircled by vibrant green vegetation and singing finches.
Of course, if you prefer a more relaxed journey, you can take a taxi or rented car from Puerto Ayora. The drive takes about 30 minutes and includes a few scenic pull-offs along the way. Most drivers will wait for you while you explore, or you can include it as a stop on the way to or from Baltra Airport.
Nature & Origins: How Los Gemelos Were Formed
Despite their appearance, Los Gemelos are not volcanic craters, but rather collapsed magma chambers. Thousands of years ago, underground lava flows created hollow pockets beneath the earth's surface. As the flows emptied, the ceilings eventually caved in, leaving behind these two massive sinkholes—now filled with life.
The area around Los Gemelos is part of the Scalesia forest, one of the few remaining highland forests on Santa Cruz. The humidity here supports mosses, lichens, ferns, and towering Scalesia trees, often referred to as the "Giant Daisy Tree". These can grow up to 20m in height and have a trunk circumference of 60cm.
What to Do & What You’ll See
Once you arrive, there are viewing platforms and benches where you can stop, rest, and marvel at the depth and symmetry of the sinkholes.
🥾 Activities:
- Hiking and nature walks (easy trails, good for all levels)
- Birdwatching
- Photography
🐦 Wildlife Spotting:
The dense vegetation is home to several endemic birds, including:
- Vermilion flycatcher (males are brilliant red)
- Darwin’s finches
What to Bring
Whether you’re biking, hiking, or driving, here are some essentials to pack:
- Mountain Bike: Rental Deals
- Water & Snacks: No shops are nearby.
- Mosquito Repellent
- Sun Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
- Light rain jacket or windbreaker (weather can shift in the highlands)
- Trash Bag: Help keep the area clean.
Los Gemelos is one of those places that shows the other side of the Galápagos—cool, green, and quiet. It’s a perfect half-day trip, especially if you’re craving a break from the beaches and want to immerse yourself in a completely different ecosystem. Whether you arrive by bike, car, or with a tour group, take a moment to simply listen: to the wind, the birds, and the deep silence around the craters.