San Cristobal Island in Galapagos is probably one of the most well-known islands in the archipelago. If you're wondering what to do in San Cristobal, this article presents the best activities you can enjoy during your stay on this enchanted island within the Galapagos National Park.
San Cristobal has an area of 558 square kilometers and was annexed to Ecuador in 1832. Its capital is Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, and it offers many attractions for tourists visiting the Galapagos Islands with their family or for the first time.
Remember that the best way to visit the Galapagos Islands is through one of our cruises that pass through San Cristobal and many more Islands of the Archipelago.
Make a stop in San Cristobal with your favorite cruise 🚢⛴️🛳️, contact us!
5 things to do in San Cristobal
Here are the best things you can do in San Cristobal:
1. – Visit the Giani Arismendy center
One of the best activities to do in San Cristobal is visiting the Galapagos Interpretation Center Giani Arismendy. Our adventure cruise Aida Maria is the perfect option if you want to visit San Cristobal and explore other Galapagos Islands.
The Galapagos Interpretation Center, located north of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, is a must-see place for lovers of nature and history. The Interpretation Center is located on the trail that connects the Interpretation Center, Punta Carola and Tijeretas Hill. From the center of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, you can get there in about 15 minutes on foot or 5 minutes by bicycle.
There are also options to take a taxi or van to get there. Remember that the path is exclusively for pedestrians.
Unmissable exhibitions
The Interpretation Center has different exhibition rooms that will immerse you in the natural and human history of the Galapagos.
- Room 1: Natural history: Discover the volcanic origins of the islands, the marine currents that shape their unique biodiversity and the high level of endemism that characterizes them.
- Room 2: Human history: Delve into the fascinating history of the colonization of the Galapagos, from its discovery to the last century. A timeline will take you through the various episodes of human presence on the archipelago, and a photographic exhibition will capture key moments in the lives of the settlers.
- Room 3: Conservation and development: Discover the importance of nature conservation in the Galapagos. Explores how water, food and energy have an ecological impact and how sustainability challenges are being addressed in the region.
The Galapagos Interpretation Center is a official visit siteof the Galapagos National Park and is open every day from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Remember to bring water to stay hydrated, as there are no stores or businesses on the trail. Also, keep in mind that the trail is not lit, so it is advisable to visit during the day.
2. – Visit Punta Carola
Punta Carola is well known if you're looking for something to do in San Cristobal. Here, you can enjoy water activities and experience a natural paradise without worrying about your budget, as there are many affordable options available.
Below we show you what activities you can do in Santa Carola in one day while you enjoy a cruise through the Galapagos Islands.
Snorkel in the crystal clear waters
Immerse yourself in the crystal-clear waters of Punta Carola and discover the amazing marine life of the Galapagos. You'll be able to swim alongside sea turtles, colorful tropical fish, and if you're lucky, you might spot stingrays and sea lions. Snorkeling equipment rental costs approximately $10 per person.
Panoramic walk along the coastal path
Enjoy a panoramic walk along the Punta Carola coastal path. Explore its cliffs, admire the stunning ocean views and marvel at the natural beauty of the surroundings. This activity is free and will give you an unforgettable experience.
Relaxation on the white sand beach
Rest and relax on the beautiful white sand beach of Punta Carola. Enjoy the sun, take a refreshing swim in the sea and let yourself be carried away by the tranquility of the surroundings. This activity is completely free and will allow you to recharge your batteries in the middle of a paradisiacal landscape.
Punta Carola in San Cristobal, Galapagos, offers you a unique experience without having to spend a lot of money. Immerse yourself in its crystal-clear waters with a snorkel session, explore the impressive cliffs on a panoramic walk or simply relax on its white sand beach.
Explore la Loberia:
Dive into the crystal-clear waters, interact with the friendly sea lions and explore the impressive coral reefs without worrying about the budget. Here you will find three affordable activity options so you can make the most of your visit.
La loberia is a beach located 20 minutes from the main port of San Cristobal and has an extension of 2.5 kilometers where snorkeling, surfing and interaction with wildlife activities are the most common. In the lobby you can carry out activities such as:
Snorkeling with sea lions
Immerse yourself in the waters of La Loberia and enjoy a unique experience swimming alongside the playful sea lions. These curious animals will accompany you during your marine exploration, creating unforgettable moments. Within our cruises you can choose to snorkel with accompaniment and at no additional cost.
Coral reef exploration
Dive into the colorful coral reefs of La Loberia and discover the diverse marine life that inhabits them. Observe vibrant tropical fish, rays, and possibly sea turtles. To enjoy this activity, you can find guides or special packages available.
Coastal bird watching
Enjoy the rich birdlife of La Loberia. Observe various species of coastal birds, such as blue-footed boobies, frigates and pelicans, in their natural habitat. This activity is free and will give you the opportunity to appreciate the beauty of birds in a stunning marine environment.
3. – Playa Mann
Mann Beach, located in San Cristobal, Galapagos. Relax on its warm sands, immerse yourself in its waters and make the most of your visit. Enjoy the serenity of Playa Mann and relax on its warm sands. Sunbathe, enjoy a good book or simply take in the beautiful scenery.
Entry to the beach is free, you just need to bring your towel and sunscreen. Below I show you the activities you can do if you go on a cruise and visit Playa Mann:
Water sports equipment rental
Discover the marine life of Playa Mann through a session of
Snorkeling nearby
Discover the marine life of Playa Mann through a session of snorkeling. Rent snorkeling equipment for approximately $10 and explore the crystal-clear waters to observe tropical fish, corals, and possibly sea turtles. Remember to bring your own towel and sunscreen.
Explore Leon Dormido Galapagos
Leon Dormido, also known as "Kicker Rock", is an iconic rock formation located in the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador. Its name comes from its resemblance to a sleeping sea lion, with two towering cliffs rising from the ocean.
In addition to its striking natural beauty, Leon Dormido has been a place of great importance for marine life in the Galapagos. Its cliffs and surrounding waters provide vital habitat for numerous species. The nearby islets, as well as the ocean currents that converge in the area, attract an abundance of marine life, including sea turtles, sharks, rays, tropical fish and seabirds.
This stunning site offers panoramic views, bird watching and abundant marine life that will take your breath away. From the deck of the cruise ship, you will be able to appreciate the majesty of Leon Dormido, an impressive rocky pinnacle that emerges from the ocean.
Contemplate its imposing cliffs and enjoy the panoramic views of this emblematic site as you sail around it.
5. – Visit the David Rodriguez Land Turtle Breeding Center – Galapaguera
Lastly, on your cruise visit to San Cristobal, you can't leave without visiting the Galapagos Tortoises. For this, you can visit the David Rodriguez Giant Tortoise Breeding Center.
The price of the visit to the Turtle Breeding Center, Galapaguera del Cerro Colorado, in San Cristobal, Galapagos, is approximately $5 per person. This cost may vary depending on the policies and regulations of the site, for example It is recommended to check with the authorities or tourist service providers to obtain the most up-to-date information on entry prices.
The Turtle Breeding Center, also known as Galapaguera del Cerro Colorado, is located 22.4 km from Puerto Baquerizo Moreno in San Cristobal, Galapagos. To get there, you can take a bus that takes approximately 40 minutes to arrive. This center has been built with the aim of improving the population of land turtles on Geochelone chatamensis island, providing an environment similar to their natural state.
This place is highly recommended, as it provides the opportunity to learn about the differences between the giant tortoises of San Cristobal and those of other islands in the archipelago. Additionally, you will become familiar with the efforts made to conserve these species over time.
The Turtle Breeding Center is an educational site where you learn about the importance of conservation and can observe the various stages of growth of turtles, from birth to adulthood. Captive reproduction projects and measures taken to protect their natural habitat are also highlighted.
Full video of San Cristobal
If you want to discover more about Punta Carola we leave you this video by Albert Oleaga which shows you more about San Cristobal.
