San Cristóbal Island
The first steps of Darwin's journey
San Cristobal holds two of the island’s natural treasures — El Junco, the only freshwater lake in all Galapagos, hidden in the misty highlands, and the Giant Tortoise Breeding Center that protects the San Cristobal giant tortoise. Off the coast, Kicker Rock rises from the ocean, where sea turtles, rays, and hammerhead sharks glide through crystal-clear waters.
San Cristóbal was the first island Charles Darwin set foot on in 1835 — the gateway that sparked one of science’s greatest discoveries.
Today, this same island still feels like a living museum of evolution.
Its main town, Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, blends local life with wild encounters: fishermen sharing the pier with sea lions, surfers catching waves as pelicans dive nearby. From its volcanic cliffs to its calm beaches, San Cristóbal carries the quiet magic of a place where people and nature have learned to coexist in perfect balance.
Truly
One-of-a-Kind
Day 1
Sea Lion Welcome
Begin with a guided nature walk to take in the island's raw beauty, then snorkel alongside playful sea lions in their natural element.
Day 2
Birdlife & Underwater Surprises
Take a boat trip to a blue-footed booby nesting colony, where a cacophony of calls fills the cliffs. Then snorkel with sea lions, turtles, and a vibrant mix of marine life.
Day 3
Kicker rock icon
Full-day boat tour to the legendary Kicker Rock - one of the very best snorkeling & scuba diving spots in Galápagos, where encounters with sharks are part of the magic.
Day 4
Highlands Adventure
Hike a dormant mini-volcano to the only permanent freshwater lagoon in the archipelago, meet the iconic giant tortoises, unwind at a soft sandy beach, and enjoy a farm-to-table lunch in the highlands.
Day 5
Española Expedition
Sail to Española Island, home to dramatic cliffs, marine iguanas, and the famous waved albatross (seasonal). Snorkel in crystal waters rich with marine life for a true Galápagos highlight.
Day 6
Departure Day
Conclude your journey with an evocative morning snorkel at La Lobería, followed by breakfast and your transfer to the airport.
We create joyful, tailored, and one-of-a-kind experiences that reconnect travellers with what truly matters.
From diving to surfing, from volcano hikes to camping under the stars—every journey with Isla Expedition is designed to help you feel the wild, the profound, and the beauty of these islands… and of yourself within them.
Know before you go
Find Your Way to us
We call San Cristóbal Island home — the heart of the Galápagos and the place where every one of our journeys begins. From here, we craft tailor-made adventures and welcome travelers into our world of ocean, waves, volcanoes, and wild encounters.
Whether you want to plan your next expedition, ask a question, or simply say hello, we’d love to hear from you.
📍 San Cristóbal Island, Galápagos, Ecuador
✉️ hello@islaexpedition.com
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