The Best Things to do in San Cristobal, Ecuador

Located two hours from San Cristóbal, Española is the southernmost island and one of the oldest in the Galápagos archipelago. The island's flat profile is extremely dry with only a few inches of rain per year. Despite the dry climate the island is one of the world's only known nesting sites for the Waved Albatross.

During the boat trip you can enjoy the beautiful landscape and you may see dolphins. Upon arrival at León Dormido we will navigate around the island to see the sea birds and sea lions, resting on the rocks. If you wish, you can snorkel — there is a good chance you will see the Galapagos shark, sea turtles, different types of rays, and a variety of fish. After that, you have some free time to enjoy the beach at Playa Ochoa, Cerro el Brujo or Playa Manglecito. Return to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno.

Venture into the highlands of San Cristóbal on this tour. You’ll get to see some of the most interesting plants in the Galápagos and the only freshwater lagoon in the Galápagos. Your guide will provide snorkeling gear for your visits to the beaches.

Looking for an easy way to get from San Cristóbal to Santa Cruz? There’s a ferry that leaves for Santa Cruz from San Cristóbal twice a day — choose from a 7 AM or 3 PM departure.

This tour is the most complete you can find in San Cristóbal. The first visitor site is called BAHIA ROSA BLANCA, Then navigate to PUNTA PITT . The next place to visit is the BAHIA SARDINA beach, here you can snorkel and if you want to relax on the beach where you will find some shade. We will walk for approximately 30 minutes in PUNTA PUCUNA, which is a site that the National Park recently opened for visitors. We pass through CERRO BRUJO, a rocky geological formation with tunnel and a cathedral. KICKER ROCK is the place where they will make their next snorkel stop.

This tour takes you to explore Floreana Island, the island with arguably the most eccentric history in the Galápagos. It has seen its fair share of human activity, beginning with 18th-century whalers. On this tour you’ll see some remnants of that history, as well as plants and animals that are rare even by Galápagos standards—Floreana Island has its very own endemic species of finch called a medium tree finch, to offer just one example.

The Galápagos is known for its stunning wildlife, and this tour takes you to some of the best wildlife attractions around San Cristobál. On this all-day tour, you’ll see famous sights like Punta Pitt, Cerro Brujo, and Kicker Rock. Along the way, you'll get to explore he volcanic scenery on hikes and snorkeling excursions. Don't worry about finding a vending machine in the middle of the ocean — snacks and lunch are included.

The Millennium is a modern, 16-passenger yacht that offers cruises through the Galápagos Islands. The accommodations are comfortable and nicely equipped, and there are ample social areas on the ship. Cruises range from 5 to 8 days.

Isla Lobos is a small islet located approximate 40 minutes from Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. Is it home to various Galapagos birds, such as Blue-Footed Boobies, Nazca Boobies, and Frigate Birds, as well as a colony of Sea Lions and numerous Marine Iguanas. On this half-day trip you will disembark on the islet for an hour long interpreted walk around the island. Afterwards you will be able to snorkel in the protected bay nearby. Following a lunch onboard you will relocate to Ochoa Beach where you can wander the sand, snorkel some more or relax in the sun.

Just a short distance south of the San Cristobal airport, you’ll find the Loberia Beach, an excellent introduction to the dreamlike landscape of the Galápagos. The beach takes its name from the lobos marinos – the sea lions lolling around the beach. (Fun fact: “Lobos” actually means wolves in Spanish.) Whether they’re sea wolves or sea lions, these animals are fun to watch and are a great introduction to the marine wildlife of the Galápagos.

Explore the rich marine life in the Galápagos around the San Cristobal beaches of Tijeretas Bay and Carola Beach on this three-hour kayaking tour. It includes a stop for snorkeling at Carola Beach, allowing you to get a sense for the huge variety of wildlife that makes the Galápagos such a special destination.

This diving tour offers a unique opportunity to explore two outstanding dive sites near San Cristóbal Island: Darwin Bay and Karahua. Known for excellent visibility and abundant marine life, this experience combines a relaxed check dive with an exciting second immersion at a historic shipwreck dating back to the early 1900s, now transformed into a thriving artificial reef. Ideal for certified divers looking for a memorable and distinctive Galápagos experience.

The M/V Galapagos Legend is a deluxe expedition vessel designed for 100 passengers, offering a balance of luxury and comfort. It features a range of inviting outdoor spaces, enjoyable onboard activities, and diverse off-ship excursions. The ship provides a high standard of service, quality, and comfort in a relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal and affordable option for family travelers seeking stability and adventure.

The Anahí is a 90-foot (27-m) catamaran that offers world-class cruises in the Galápagos Islands. The ship can hold up to 16 passengers and has wonderful cabins and social areas. Cruises on the Anahí range from 4 to 8 days in length.

A cruise through the Galapagos Islands offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in one of the world’s most pristine natural environments. Each day brings new adventures, from guided hikes across volcanic landscapes and serene white-sand beaches to snorkeling alongside sea lions, turtles, and vibrant marine life. You’ll visit iconic islands where you can observe giant tortoises in their natural habitat, spot blue-footed boobies and marine iguanas up close, and explore coastal ecosystems by kayak or panga ride. All activities are led by expert naturalist guides who share fascinating insights into the islands’ geology, flora, and fauna. Whether you're relaxing on deck or exploring on land and sea, every moment is crafted to inspire wonder and connection with nature. (Photos are referential).