3-Day San Cristóbal 360°: Highlands, Kicker Rock & Snorkel Adventures
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3 days
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness recommended—comfortable walking for a few hours, and ability to get on/off small boats.
Overview
Cross the channel and spend three days experiencing San Cristóbal from inlet to highland: freshwater lagoons, tortoise conservation, and a 360° boat loop that circles Kicker Rock and turtle-rich bays. Practical, wildlife-forward, and paced for travelers who want land hikes and ocean snorkels in one trip.
3-Day San Cristóbal 360°: Highlands, Kicker Rock & Snorkel Adventures
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The ferry thuds against Puerto Baquerizo Moreno’s dock and the salt air shoves you forward—slow, insistently—toward the island’s basalt rim. On day one you leave the bustle of Santa Cruz and cross a line where the horizon sharpens: San Cristóbal’s cliffs loom, gulls punctuating the sky like commas. A guide meets you at the hotel the next morning and the itinerary loosens into a rhythm of land and sea—an inland loop through laurisilva and volcanic ridges, then a full-day boat circuit that turns the island inside out.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Carry cash for local fees
Bring small USD bills for the pier use rate ($10) and sea taxi fee ($2) that must be paid on site.
Pack reef-safe sunscreen
Protect marine life—regular sunscreens can damage reefs; choose reef-safe SPF and apply before boarding.
Bring seasickness prevention
Open-boat crossings and the 360° day can be rough; take motion-sickness meds ahead of departure if you’re prone to nausea.
Footwear for mixed terrain
Wear reef shoes or sandals that grip for beach entries and light hiking shoes for highland paths and rocky shores.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Galápagos sea lion
- Galápagos tortoise
History
San Cristóbal historically served as a provisioning and whaling stop; its highland freshwater source, El Junco, was critical for early sailors and settlers.
Conservation
The islands operate strict visitor guidelines—pay local pier and sea-taxi fees, use reef-safe sunscreen, and follow guide instructions to minimize disturbance to wildlife.
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Adventure Hotspots in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects skin and the marine environment during extended sun exposure on boats and beaches.
Light waterproof jacket
Wind and drizzle are common in the cool Garúa season—pack a breathable shell for boat rides.
winter specific
Reef shoes
Helps with slippery rocks and beach entries during snorkel stops.
summer specific
Dry bag (10–20L)
Keeps camera, documents and spare clothes dry on open boats and during wet landings.