Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, San Cristobal
Get to know San Cristobal
Welcome to the oldest and second most populated island of the Galapagos, San Cristobal. This island is the furthest island from the volcanic hotspot that has produced the Galapagos Islands, indicating its relatively old geological age. It is also home to an extremely unique natural environment, unlike any other in the Galapagos Islands. It hosts the only permanent freshwater lagoon in all of the archipelago. It’s also the best spot to hang if you’re a surfer and is home to several endemic species of the Galapagos.
Puerto Baquerizo Moreno
The town of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno is the political capital of the Galapagos and is its second largest town. One of the Galapagos’ two airports that fly to the mainland of Ecuador is just minutes outside of town. The downtown area is spread in front of the beach. Barking sea lions welcome you as you arrive at the dock and are omnipresent as you walk down beach and the boardwalk. The main drag is a long line of shops and restaurants that cater to everything travelers need in the way of souvenirs and services.
What to do
Activities in San Cristobal include: snorkeling, diving, swimming, mountain biking, hiking, and sea kayaking.
Interpretation Center
Here, a team of ecologists are dedicated to preserving the natural and human history of the Islands and sharing that with excited travelers. This is an important part of the Galapagos experience, because it is our belief that along with the gift of experiencing the Galapagos Islands as a visitor comes the responsibility of helping to maintain these fragile ecosystems in such pristine condition.
Frigate Hill
There are two species of frigatebirds in the Galapagos: the Great and Magnificent Frigates. They are a truly astounding bird with a bright red pouch that the males inflate to attract the females soaring up above. This mating display is a must-see for avid birdwatchers.
Punta Pitt
Also known as “Pitt Point,” this cliff-lined beach is not only home to a sea lion colony but also all three types of Booby birds native to the islands: Blue-footed, Nazca, and Red-footed. This is a great spot for snorkeling, bird watching, or simply taking in the majesty of nature.
Kicker Rock
Although this is technically a couple hours from the shore of San Cristobal, it’s a very popular destination. Explorers love to