RED-FOOTED BOOBIES · HIGHLAND LAGOONS
San Cristobal Island Day Tour from Santa Cruz
Galapagos Island Hopping Experience
Explore one of the most diverse islands in the Galapagos with a full-day tour to San Cristobal Island from Santa Cruz. Discover scenic viewpoints, pristine beaches, and highland ecosystems while learning about the islands’ history and conservation efforts.
This Galapagos island hopping experience combines wildlife, culture, and natural beauty, making it one of the most complete day tours in the archipelago.
TOUR DETAILS
San Cristobal Island is one of the oldest islands in the Galapagos and offers a unique combination of natural beauty, history, and wildlife. This full-day tour begins with a transfer from Santa Cruz, providing a complete island-hopping experience.
Upon arrival, you will visit the Interpretation Center, where you will learn about the formation, history, and conservation of the Galapagos Islands. Continue your journey with a hike to Cerro Tijeretas, a scenic viewpoint ideal for birdwatching and panoramic views of the coastline.
The tour also includes a visit to Playa Carola, where you can relax and observe sea lions in their natural habitat. After lunch in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, explore the highlands of San Cristobal, including El Junco Lagoon, the only freshwater lake in the Galapagos.
Finally, visit the Cerro Colorado Tortoise Breeding Center to learn about conservation efforts and observe giant tortoises before returning to town.
Route: Santa Cruz → San Cristobal Island
Duration: Full day
Location: Puerto Baquerizo Moreno & Highlands
Price: From $354
SAN CRISTOBAL ISLAND · GALÁPAGOS
Itinerary
Note: the itinerary may vary depending on weather conditions and Galapagos National Park regulations.
Morning
Meeting point transfer to the pier in Puerto Ayora
Morning
Transfer San Cristobal Island
Morning
Visit Interpretation Center
Morning
Hike Cerro Tijeretas viewpoint
Midday
Playa Carola leisure and wildlife observation
Midday
Lunch at local restaurant Puerto Baquerizo Moreno
Afternoon
Visit Highlands
Afternoon
Stop El Junco Lagoon
Afternoon
Visit to Cerro Colorado Tortoise Breeding Center
Midday
Return to town or hotel
What's Included
- Round trip transportation (Santa Cruz – San Cristobal)
- Land transportation and water taxis
- Certified bilingual naturalist guide
- Snorkeling equipment (mask and fins)
- Lunch in San Cristobal
- Coffee, tea, and purified water during navigation
- Excursions mentioned in the itinerary
Not Included
- Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
- Additional alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
- Galapagos National Park entrance fee
- Transit Control Card (TCT)
- Travel insurance
- Tips for guide and crew
- Wetsuit for snorkeling
- Fuel surcharge (if applicable)
Recommendations
- Comfortable walking shoes for hiking
- Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
- Light clothing and swimsuit
- Towel
- Reusable water bottle
- Waterproof bag for personal items
Why Visit San Cristobal Island
San Cristobal Island offers a unique combination of history, wildlife, and scenic landscapes. From coastal viewpoints and beaches filled with sea lions to highland ecosystems and freshwater lagoons, it provides a diverse experience not found on other islands.
This tour is ideal for travelers looking for a complete Galapagos island-hopping experience that includes culture, nature, and wildlife in a single day.