Day tour to San Cristobal Island with private Land Tour and snorkeling
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Day tour to San Cristobal Island with private Land Tour and snorkeling

Active
(22 reviews)
10h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This tour allows you to get to know the captial of the Galapagos: San Cristobal Island and its beautiful sites in only one day; you will not only get to see tons of sea lions and many sea lions babies, but also many marine birds, marine iguanas, sea turtles, tropical fish, sharks and even more sea lions. Moreover, you will get to see beautiful landscapes with crystal clear turquoise water and the iconic Kicker Rock.
This tour is the perfect combination of land and water, as during the snorkel activity you will get to know the abundant wildlife underwater, while three sites (Punta Carola, Tijeretas and La Loberia) allow you to get to the the most beautiful sites, species and landscapes San Cristobal has to offer on land too.

The tour includes a very good lunch menu too and you will be provided with high quality snorkel equipment and wetsuits.

Please note that the only way to get to San Cristobal is by PUBLIC SPEEDBOAT - of course they are safe but on rough sea it can get choppy!

Available options

Day tour to San Cristobal

What's included

Fee charged for the use of the pier in Puerto Ayora
Soda/Pop
Lunch
Use of Snorkelling equipment
Wetsuits (long or short, as preferred)
Guía privado during the entire stay on San Cristobal Island
Fuel surcharge
Lunch menu in one of the local restaurants
Boat ride to San Cristobal round trip on a comfortable and fast speedboat
Transport with a private driver
Mesh bag to store your snorkel equipment and the wetsuit

Detailed itinerary

1

At Puerto Ayora's pier before your Speedboat you could observe a variety of birds fishing, small sharks or sea lions resting on the public seats.
After the speedboat ride, you will disembark at the pier of San Cristobal Island, Puerto Baquerizo Moreno.
It is the capital of the archipelago of Galápagos, and it is the place with the most abundante population of sea lions in all of Galapagos - they are literally everywhere; on the streets, on the banks, on the beaches, everywhere.
This is the reason why San Cristobal is the perfect island to see recently born baby sea lions on one of the beaches you will visit during this tour.

2

Your private land tour will start with a nice walk of about 25 minutes through endemic and native vegetation, leading you to a stunningly beautiful coral beach where you will be able to observe many recently born sea lions babies, on the beach and playing in the water as well as sally lightfoot crabs, lava herons and pelicans. The order of the different visitor sites can also be the other way around, we always check the tide and organize the tour accordingly, so that you will get the best possible conditions for the snorkeling.
This is the perfect place to take the perfect picture of a baby sea lions and if you like, you can already do the first snorkel activity from this beautiful beach.

3

From Punta Carola, your guide will accompany you on an even trail (stones and sand - about 25 minutes wakling time) to "Las Tijeretas", passing by different spectacular view points, where besides the many frigate birds (that is where the name of this place comes from, as their tales are shaped as a scissors - tijeretas in Spanish) and swallow tailed gulls as well as nazca boobies, blue-footed boobies and marine iguanas you get a stunning view of the unique landscape made out of a beautiful cove with turquoise, crystal clear water and the famous Kicker Rock (Leon Dormido) in the background.
This unique cove also is the place where the snorkel activity will take place; your guide will lead you to the best hidden spots to find playful sealions, sea turtles, rays, tropical fish and often also sharks.

4

After lunch in one of the local restaurants, a private car will take you to the last activity for today: "La Loberia". From the parking lot, you will start to walk for about 15-20 minutes passing by some small white beaches with mangroves and big marine iguanas as well as hermit crabs until you arrive at a stunning Bay with black lava in contrast tu crystal-clear water and a white sand beach, called La Loberia. The big colony of sea lions inhabiting this place is where the name comes from; it is like a sea lion kindergarten where it never gets boring to observe the cute little sea lion babies, sleeping on the beach, playing in the water and calling their mothers back from getting food. Exploring this bay a bit further, you will see lots of marine birds: Swallow-tailed gulls, nazca boobies, pelicans as well as great blue herons.

What's not included

Propinas (optional)
Water taxis to and from the speedboat ($2 in total)
Alcoholic Beverages

Available languages

Guide guide
EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9
8 reviews
5★
7
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor 4.9
14 reviews
5★
12
4★
2
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

We meet at our office in Calle Enrique Fuentes ("El Saigón"), only a few footsteps from the pier. You can also find us on Google Maps: Guiding Galápagos Expeditions S.A.

About Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is the second-largest island in the Galápagos and home to the largest population. Known for its diverse ecosystems, from lush highlands to arid lowlands, it offers a unique blend of wildlife, culture, and adventure. The island is a gateway to some of the most iconic natural wonders in the world.

Top Attractions

Charles Darwin Research Station

A scientific research station dedicated to the conservation of the Galápagos Islands. It's home to the famous giant tortoises and offers educational exhibits.

Nature 1-2 hours $10 (included in national park fee)

El Chato Tortoise Reserve

A protected area in the highlands of Santa Cruz, home to giant tortoises in their natural habitat. The reserve offers a unique opportunity to observe these ancient creatures up close.

Nature 2-3 hours Free (donations welcome)

Tortuga Bay

A stunning beach with white sand and clear waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. It's also a nesting site for sea turtles.

Beach Half day Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Ceviche

Fresh raw fish cured in fresh lemon or lime juice, mixed with onions, tomatoes, and cilantro. Served with popcorn or plantain chips.

Appetizer Contains fish, can be made gluten-free.

Locro de Papa

A hearty soup made with potatoes, cheese, and sometimes avocado. A staple dish in Ecuador.

Main Course Vegetarian, can be made vegan.

Seco de Chivo

A traditional Ecuadorian stew made with goat meat, served with rice and plantains.

Main Course Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the highlands Snorkeling and scuba diving Beach lounging at Tortuga Bay Sunset cruises Visiting local markets and shops Learning about Galápagos conservation efforts Kayaking and paddleboarding Snorkeling with sea lions and turtles

Best Time to Visit

December to June

This is the warmest and wettest time of the year, with higher humidity and occasional rain. The ocean is calmer, making it ideal for water activities and wildlife viewing.

22°C to 28°C 72°F to 82°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Spanish
  • Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas)
  • English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

GMT-6

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Santa Cruz is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, petty theft can occur, especially in crowded areas. Exercise normal precautions and keep valuables secure.

Important Precautions:
  • • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
  • • Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night.
  • • Avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit or deserted areas.

Getting there

By air
  • Seymour Airport • 10 km from Puerto Ayora

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and frequent, connecting key points in the town and to the highlands.

Taxis

Available

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Puerto Ayora Highlands of Santa Cruz

Day trips

Isabela Island
30 km from Santa Cruz • Full day

Isabela is the largest island in the Galápagos, known for its volcanic landscapes, diverse wildlife, and beautiful beaches.

Floreana Island
40 km from Santa Cruz • Full day

Floreana is known for its unique history, including the famous Post Office Bay and the Floreana mystery.

Festivals

Galápagos Anniversary Festival • March 1-31 Santa Cruz Carnival • February/March (dates vary)

Pro tips

  • Book tours and accommodations well in advance, especially during peak seasons.
  • Bring cash for small purchases and tips, as not all vendors accept cards.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking and hiking, as many attractions involve uneven terrain.
  • Respect the wildlife and maintain a safe distance. Do not feed or touch the animals.
  • Pack layers for the highlands, as the weather can be cooler and wetter than in Puerto Ayora.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 18-65
1
Childs
Age 2-11
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available

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