Discover
San Cristobal Island

San Cristobal island, also known by it english name Chatham is one of the oldest islands in Galapagos. The island is the owner of the only freshwater lagoon in the Galapagos. It used to be a penal colony and now a place for amazing visits and memories.

Our Best San Cristobal Island Tours

See All Trips

Our top 5 things to do in San Cristobal Island

San Cristóbal, Galapagos is not the most famous island in the archipelago, but it is certainly special. It is the easternmost island and was formed by a series of volcanoes that merged before becoming extinct. It was the first island that Darwin visited when he first arrived in the Galapagos.

On this island you can do different activities, from diving in crystal clear waters to walking along colorful trails.

Hike Up To Cerro Tijeretas

Just behind the San Cristobal Interpretation Centre is a walking path that leads you to the top of Frigate Bird Hill, which offers a sensational view over Shipwreck Bay to the south, and a great vista of the famous Kicker Rock to the west.

Diving At Leon Dormido

It is a popular site for snorkelling and diving because of its amazing location and the incredible, unique ecosystem in the area makes it a real underwater paradise.

Lagoon El Junco

The enormous crater was formed in the caldera of a volcano and researchers have said it has existed since the end of the ice ages. Being a freshwater lake on a small island in the ocean, the only inflow is from the heavy rains that occur in the highlands during the year.

La Loberia Beach

La Loberia Beach has exactly what you expect from a beautiful Pacific island – pristine, soft white sand and glistening turquoise water.The beach is in a crescent shape, and absolutely stunning. This is a great place to snorkel, and you can see turtles, sea lions, tonnes of different fish species, and if you are lucky, maybe a marine iguana swimming or eating underwater.

Port Baquerizo Moreno

It’s when you simply walk around this peaceful, quiet town that you get a sense of how calm island life really can be. The locals are very friendly and will greet you with a smile and a hello.

Best food in San Cristobal Island

Traditional food on the island: As you might expect, the food in Puerto makes the most of the supply of fresh fish and shellfish, it can be defined as varied. The most common way to prepare most fish recipes is ceviche style, that is, marinated with lemon and lobster.

Galapagos Lobster

It is one of the outstanding dishes of the Insular region. The softness of its meat and its exquisiteness make it a versatile product to delight the palate in its different presentations. Tasting it in seafood sauce, in ceviche or on the grill, will be an unforgettable gastronomic experience.

Canchalagua ceviche

Prepared based on onion, pepper, green, tomato, salt, lemon juice and fresh canchal water. The canchalagua is a mollusk that is found on the shores, and is collected on the stones of the intertidal zones.

Prawns

They are prepared with garlic, grilled and even encocado. The flavor of its meat is similar to that of the shrimp from the Coast, but its consistency is a little harder and tastier.

Fresh Fish and Seafood

Fresh fish and seafood is always offered in every menu at the restaurants in the Galapagos Islands. Tuna fish is an all-time favorite and very popular among the population. A singular fish that is becoming a must, is the “Brujo” fish. It is funny looking fish with white and reddish colors. A real delicacy.

What to pack for San Cristobal Island

Adaptor plug

The voltage in the Galapagos Islands is 120V and the power plugs and sockets are of type A and B. The standard frequency is 60 Hz.

Reusable water bottle

Galapagos is definitely outdoor adventure and a reusable water bottle will help you stay hydrated without contributing to the plastic waste in the pristine islands.

Wind and waterproof coat

The Galapagos Islands can have very diverse weather. Due to the warm and cold currents meeting onsite different micro-climates are formed. It can be very sunny at the sea shore but raining in the highlands.

Hiking shoes

Whether you’re trekking the through the Galapagos Highlands, or walking on white sand beaches like Tortuga Bay, you’ll need a good and comfortable pair of shoes in Galapagos.

Other things to know before you go

Depending on your nationality, you’ll need a valid passport and may also need visas to enter Ecuador. Please check this well in advance of your trip departure date. Also, COVID restriccions for the Galapagos Islands are changing according to specific situations. Please check with us before traveling.

Why travel with Ecuador Trails?

  • Customer Care

    TOP CLASS CUSTOMER CARE

    Always here for you

  • Details Sorted

    DETAILS SORTED

    Stress free and flexible trips

  • Unique Experiences

    UNIQUE EXPERIENCES

    Hand-picked by our expert guides

  • Ecuador Trails Cares

    ECUADOR TRAILS CARES

    Committed to responsible travel