San Cristóbal Island
Ecuador · Galápagos · 6 m
Description
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.
Length of stay
Recommended length of stay: 2 to 5 days (optimal 3 days)
Travel season
Best time to visit: June – November
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Highlights
- León Dormido (Kicker Rock)
- La Lobería
- Cerro Tijeretas
- Isla Lobos(Day trip)
- Snorkeling at Isla Lobos(Day trip)
- Interpretation Center
- 360° Tour(Day trip)
- Charles Darwin Landing Site
- Cerro Brujo(Day trip)
- El Junco
- Galapaguera de Cerro Colorado
- Playa Mann
- Punta Carola
- Punta Carola Surf Break
- Puerto Chino Beach
- Ochoa Beach
- Bahía Rosa Blanca
- Punta Pitt(Day trip)
- Punta Pitt Trail(Day trip)
Getting there
- Airports:
- SCY
- Seaport:
- Reachable by ship or ferry