8-Day Galapagos Multisport: San Cristobal, Isabela & Santa Cruz Adventure
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
8 days
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness: comfortable with repeated half-day hikes, snorkeling and a few hours of paddling or biking.
Overview
An eight-day loop through San Cristóbal, Santa Cruz and Isabela that pairs snorkeling with paddling and biking—get up close to Kicker Rock, swim Los Túneles, and search highland ranches for giant tortoises. Practical, active, and designed for travelers who want to move through the islands rather than just see them.
8-Day Galapagos Multisport: San Cristobal, Isabela & Santa Cruz Adventure
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The morning you step off the plane in San Cristóbal, a hot wind pushes the smell of salt and guano across the tarmac; sea lions bark like an impatient chorus and frigatebirds slice the sky. This is not a checklist trip — it’s a sequence of short, intense encounters: the vertical silhouette of Kicker Rock rising from glassy water, the soft bob of a paddleboard among curious seals, a dirt road in Santa Cruz where giant tortoises amble across your path like slow monuments.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Pack soft, small luggage
Inter-island public boats and vehicles have limited space—soft duffels under 20 kg make transfers faster and protect your gear.
Use reef-safe sunscreen and a rashguard
Sun is intense on exposed boat decks and while snorkeling—choose reef-safe SPF and a lightweight long-sleeve for UV and jellyfish protection.
Prepare for sea days
If prone to seasickness, start medication before the first boat transfer and sit on deck facing forward for better stability.
Carry cash for park fees & tips
Entrance fees are collected on arrival and some local services accept only cash—carry smaller bills in USD.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Galápagos sea lion
- marine iguana
History
The islands formed over a volcanic hotspot and rose to scientific prominence during Charles Darwin’s 1835 visit, shaping modern ideas of evolution.
Conservation
Strict park regulations and visitor limits protect nesting sites and coral; travel choices like reef-safe sunscreen and small-group tours minimize impact.
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Adventure Hotspots in Puerto Ayora
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Reef-safe sunscreen & SPF lip balm
Protects fragile marine ecosystems and prevents sunburn on long boat or beach days.
Lightweight wetsuit or thermal rashguard
Adds warmth during cooler upwelling months and protects against stings and scrapes while snorkeling.
winter specific
Sturdy water shoes
Useful for wet landings, rocky beaches and short hikes over lava rock.
Soft-sided duffel (20 kg max)
Easier to stow on public speedboats and small island transfers than rigid suitcases.