The Best 9 Things to Do on San Cristobal
A real wildlife haven, San Cristobal Island is bursting with things to do and sights to see. In the realm of coastlines, you will find jaw-droppingly beautiful beaches where you’ll be sharing pristine white-sand shores with playful sea lions.
There are also so many opportunities for snorkelling and diving during which you can cross paths with everything from adorable sea turtles to hammerhead sharks.
On top of this, there is a marvellous range of hiking trails available that lead to viewing points with vistas that are nothing short of breathtaking, along with being home to some of the world’s most spectacular bird species.
So, it’s no exaggeration to say that San Cristobal is home to some of the best things to do in the Galapagos Islands. Yet, you might want to get a grasp of the top sights and activities on the islands while planning your trip to this glorious archipelago.
Thus, we are here to share the best things to do in San Cristobal Island to help you on your way to organising the most sensational trip possible to this wild paradise.
1. Go For A Hike Up To Cerro Tijeretas
One of the best things to do in San Cristobal Island is to hike to the viewpoint known as Cerro Tijeretas. From here you can admire the panoramic views over the azure waters and vibrant green vegetation of the landscape.
Cerro Tijeretas is named after the large frigate birds (known in Spanish as ‘tijeretas’), which will quickly become apparent as you see them peeping through the surrounding trees.
If you’re lucky enough to visit during the breeding season, you might even get the chance to see the males inflate their red necks in an attempt to attract passing females.
The hike begins just behind the San Cristobal Interpretation Centre, where a paved pathway leads you to a wooden platform at the top. The trail guides you through lava and cactus fields in a wonderful display of the island’s glorious outdoor scenery.
It takes about 45 minutes to an hour to reach the top. Of course, this depends on how many times you stop to take photos of the exceptional views and surroundings.
Upon reaching the lookout point, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views over Shipwreck Bay to the south and Kicker Rock to the west.
2. Go Snorkelling Or Diving At León Dormid, Kicker Rock
Kicker Rock is one of the most popular places to go snorkelling or diving in San Cristobal Island and one of the best dive sites in the Galapagos. The site was formed by the remains of an ancient volcanic cone, which has been eroded by the sea over thousands of years.
Stretching 140 metres above the Pacific Ocean, Kicker Rock is home to an abundance of animals both above and below the water. Divers may even get to catch a glimpse of the incredible hammerhead shark - the largest of all hammerhead species.
Kicker Rock is often described as an underwater paradise due to its unique ecosystem, variety of species and amazing location. In recent years it has become one of the most popular snorkelling and diving spots in the archipelago.
3. Snorkel with Sea Lions at La Lobería Beach
Another popular snorkelling spot in San Cristobal Island is La Loberia Beach which just so happens to be one of the best beaches in the Galapagos Islands. The stunning white sand shores are also conveniently located close to the island’s largest town, Puerto Baquerizo Moreno.
You’ll find one of the most popular of San Cristobal’s animals on La Loberia; the chunky sea lion. The gorgeous coastline is home to home to a colony of these lazy fellows who spend their days basking in the sun and taking intermittent dips to cool off in the water.
Although these sea lions are known to be friendly, it is always best to keep your distance so as to not disturb them. The beach’s crystal-clear waters make it the perfect place to snorkel.
You can expect to be sharing the waters with turtles, sea lions, a variety of different fish and, if you’re lucky, maybe even a marine iguana. Thus, be sure to pack your wetsuit, sun cream and snorkelling gear to make the most of the spectacular setting.
4. Snorkel at Las Tijeretas and hike to the viewpoint
One of the best spots for snorkelling on your own in San Cristobal Island is Las Tijeretas. This well-protected bay is known for its dark blue transparent water and glorious array of marine life.
The walk down to the bay is short and easy, along a well-marked path. Once at the bottom jump in and begin exploring the crystal clear waters. You can expect to see reef fish, rays, sea lions and turtles, as well as incredible coral formations.
Planning is key when it comes to planning when to go snorkelling at Las Tijeretas. If possible, it is best to choose a day when the moon is either full or new so that the tides are high.
Doing so will provide you with the optimum conditions for your underwater adventure by keeping the waters clear and thus, making it easier to see all the remarkable creatures you come across.
5. Relax at Playa Puerto Chino Beach
Puerto Chino Beach is one of San Cristobal Island’s most beautiful beaches. It is located 30 km from the main port on the far side of the island and is most commonly reached by taking a tour or taxi.
In fact, if you’re wondering what to do in San Cristobal Island, set off to this enchanting cove to enjoy pristine white-sand shores and bright turquoise waters. You can spend the day swimming, snorkelling and having a nap at this peaceful oasis.
However, you should exercise care when getting into the water. Some of the lava rocks are quite sharp so it is important to watch your footing. Once in the sea, you’ll be able to enjoy calm waters and see sea lions, turtles and a variety of fish species.
One thing to note is that there aren’t any shops on Puerto Chino Beach. So, be sure to come prepared, having packed enough water and snacks to last you for the whole day.
6. Go On A 360º San Cristobal Tour of the Island
Going on a 360º Tour is one of the best things to do in San Cristobal especially if you’re short on time as it treats you to panoramic views that allow you to see the island in all of its glory.
The action-packed tour usually starts at 7:30 am and finishes around 5 pm, so be prepared for a full day of adventure. Your day will include several stops where you are given the opportunity to snorkel, swim and see a variety of Galapagos animals.
The typical stops include Rosa Blanca, Punta Pitt, Sardine Bay, Punta Pucana, Cerro Bunjo, and Kicker Rock. There are multiple companies offering 360º tours of San Cristobal Island so be sure to do your research and ask around to compare reviews.
Do be aware that some companies do not allow you to rent a wetsuit and snorkelling equipment meaning you’ll have to arrive prepared with your own gear. So, be sure to check this with the tour operators before finalising your booking.
7. Wander Around Puerto Baquerizo Moreno
Simply taking the time to wander around Puerto Baquerizo Moreno is one of the best activities in San Cristobal Island. As the islet’s largest town, it is a wonderful place to explore to get to know the locals and get a feel for island life.
The peaceful, quiet town also has a number of good places to stop for a meal and a few drinks. It also has several gift stores where you can purchase a range of unique products to take home as souvenirs.
While the town does tend to quieten down a little between 2 and 4 pm, this is the perfect time to hit up some of the best of San Cristobal attractions such as the sea lions at Playa de Oro.
8. Visit Playa Punta Carola
Located close to Darwin’s Cove and Las Tijeretas lookout point, Playa Punta Carola is truly stunning and considered one of the best beaches in South America, never mind one of the best things to see on San Cristobal Island.
The gorgeous shoreline is blessed with azure waters and fine golden sand. What’s more, it is also the perfect spot for seeing some of the most incredible Galapagos animals. Expect to see a plethora of creatures including sea lions, marine iguanas and sea turtles.
You can also venture to the striking red and white lighthouse at the end of the rocky point to see pelicans and the spectacular blue-footed boobies.
Playa Punta Carola is also one of the best places to watch the sunset on San Cristobal Island. Not only are the views magnificent, but the colony of sea lions lounging on the beach makes it an even more unique experience.
9. A Day Trip To Punta Pitt
One of the best day trips to do in San Cristobal is to visit Punta Pitt, a group of volcanic cones located on the very eastern side of the island.
Something of a bird-watcher’s paradise, the site is recognised as one of the few places in the Galapagos where you can find all three species of boobies: blue-footed boobies, red-footed boobies and Nazca boobies. You can also find two species of frigate birds.
Thus, if you’re planning a trip to the Galapagos and wondering what to do on San Cristobal Island, be sure to schedule a trip to Punta Pitt. It is easily one of the best spots for wildlife on the island.
The hike to reach the blue-footed booby nests is 2 km long and takes about 3 hours to complete. The route is incredibly scenic, offering awe-inspiring views of the volcanic landscape. If you’re lucky, you might even cross paths with some of these turquoise-toed waddlers along the way.
Summary
San Cristobal Island is one of the best Galapagos Islands to visit. Between stunning sandy beaches, a wealth of snorkelling opportunities and a remarkable array of wildlife species, you will not find yourself short on things to do on this spectacular landmass.
Feeling inspired to book flights to San Cristobal? Touring Galapagos offers a fantastic selection of cruises in this remarkable destination through a variety of packages. Get in touch to start planning your San Cristobal adventure.