"Tortuga Crossing" Ecological Reserve The Giant Tortuise is the symbol of the Galapagos Islands. This 12 hectar ranch was part of the much larger farm which was dedcated to livestock farming. The Arias Family who own the "El Chato" ranch have dedicated over 20 years to promoting tourism in this area of Santa Cruz. They have worked to turn the environment from farm land to a natural habitat that favors to Giant Tortoises.