San Cristóbal Island

San Cristóbal (Isla San Cristóbal) is the easternmost inhabited island of the Galápagos Archipelago and home to the provincial capital, Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. Often regarded as the historical heart of the Galápagos, the island is closely linked to Charles Darwin, who first set foot on the archipelago here in 1835. San Cristóbal is renowned for its extraordinary wildlife, scenic beaches, and world-class snorkeling and diving sites, including the iconic León Dormido (Kicker Rock). Highlights include the Cerro Tijeretas viewpoint, the sea lion colonies at Playa La Lobería, El Junco, the archipelago’s only permanent freshwater lake, and Punta Pitt, the only place in the Galápagos where all three booby species nest together. Combining remarkable natural beauty, exceptional wildlife encounters, and a relaxed island atmosphere, San Cristóbal is one of the most popular gateways to exploring the Galápagos Islands.