10 things to do in San Cristóbal, Galapagos

10 things to do in San Cristóbal, Galapagos

The great thing about San Cristóbal is that there are so many attractions within walking distance of the main town, Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. Many of these offer ample wildlife opportunities that (usually) don't cost a dime.

We spent three days exploring the island's many natural wonders and didn't break the bank. If you're lucky enough to be visiting the Galapagos Islands, take the time to head to San Cristóbal and visit these lesser-known but never overwhelming sights.

1. Center of Interpretation

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This is the best interpretive center in the Galapagos, far surpassing the more popular Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz. Just a 15-minute walk from our Casa Opuntia hotel, exhibits focus on conservation, climate and geology, as well as the thought-provoking history of the Galápagos.

2. Cerro Tijeretas

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From the Centro de Interpretación, continue along a small path that leads upwards. This will take you to one of the best views in the Galápagos.

There is a network of trails around the lookout, including one that leads down to Tijeretas Bay, where you can snorkel in crystal-clear, turquoise waters.

3. Punta Carola and Playa Cabo de Horno

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These two idyllic beaches are exactly what you expect from Galápagos. Pristine white sand beaches meet calm Pacific surf. Sea lions play in the water, while marine iguanas catch rays further from the beach.

4. La Loberia

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A 30-minute walk in the other direction will take you to La Lobería, a small beach frequented by surfers due to the larger waves that break on this side of the island.

There's not much to see while snorkeling, but keep going until the beach turns to rocky black lava and start counting the marine iguanas. There seem to be hundreds.

5. El Junco Lake

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For this you need to get some wheels – at least two. About 16 km from the city is Laguna El Junco. The small lake lies in a crater in the highlands of the island.

The lake offers protection for a large variety of birds. Reaching the lake requires a short climb from the road and offers rewarding panoramic views of the island.

6. Galapaguera Tortoise Habitat

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A little further along the main road, the islands cross the most natural feel of the giant tortoise sanctuaries in the Galápagos. There is no guarantee that you will see adult turtles here as they move freely through the protected area's thickets.

However, this is also a breeding center, so you will definitely see the younger and "middle-aged" turtles - when up to 100 years old can be classified as middle-aged!

7. PuertoChino

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Another nine kilometers along the road is a stunning little beach that is very popular with the locals. If you come on weekdays, you will enjoy a more peaceful experience. On the weekends, however, you'll get a glimpse of how the islanders like to unwind.

As always, wildlife abounds in the Galápagos Islands, including sea lions, marine iguanas and abundant shorebirds. I think I let it all go to my head a bit when I tried to shoot a David Hasselhoff-esque shot in my shorts!

8. Leon Dormido (Kicker Rock)

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If you're going on an expensive tour, do this. Take a 1.5-hour boat ride north around the island to a dramatic rocky island called Leon Dormido. There is no beach, but there is excellent snorkeling and diving off the coast.

On the dizzying cliffs above you'll see frigatebirds, red-billed tropicbirds and blue-footed boobies.

9. Lobos Island

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Some companies combine a visit to this tiny rocky island and its lava-covered coastline with a visit to Leon Dormido above. Isla Lobos is teeming with sea lions and birds, including blue-footed boobies and frigatebirds.

Opposite, on the shores of San Cristóbal, is Playa Ochoa, a large white-sand beach with a tidal lagoon that is home to flamingos and Chatham mockingbirds.

10. Puerto Baquerizo Moreno

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Don't ignore the administrative capital of The Galápagos. Stroll through the town day and night, watching the sea lions perching on the seaside benches, the marine iguanas catching the sun's rays on the seawall, and the many red rock crabs scurrying over the rocks.

Break it up with an ice-cold batido de mora (berry milkshake) and a rich cake from Mary’s Cakes & Coffee.

The essentials

What: The Galapagos Islands are located 960 km west of mainland Ecuador. San Cristóbal is the administrative capital of the archipelago and, along with Baltra (Santa Cruz), is the only other island to have an airport with international connections. From Santa Cruz, it's a choppy 2.5-hour boat ride ($30 per person).

Where: We stayed at Casa Opuntia, which is right on the water and offers fantastic views of the harbor and its sparkling turquoise waters. From here you can easily reach the island's many nearby attractions on foot.

For sights further afield, ask Alex, the incredibly helpful receptionist and miracle worker, to organize taxis, tours and ferry tickets. There are two pools, perfect for cooling off after a hot day on the island. The hotel serves a good breakfast, where you will be accompanied by finches on the terrace, and there is tea, coffee and cold water available all day.

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When: The Galapagos Islands have two seasons. The islands are relatively dry all year round, but between January and June temperatures are hotter (30°C) and there are regular downpours. From July to December temperatures are cooler (22°C) and generally drier, but the seas are choppier and less ideal for diving.

How: If you're flying from mainland Ecuador, there are two options: Guayaquil or Quito. Flights land on either Baltra Island (Santa Cruz) or San Cristóbal. Prices vary, but we got a return trip from Guayaquil to Baltra for $400 per person. Most flights from Quito stop in Guayaquil in both directions and a flight to San Cristóbal is more expensive than to Baltra. Book flights via skyscanner.net.

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