Hiking

San Cristóbal Highland Tour

Departs from and returns to San Cristóbal · Galapagos Xcursion Agency

Overview

Discover a different side of San Cristóbal as you travel from the coast into the island’s green highlands. Visit El Junco Lagoon, a freshwater lake inside an ancient volcanic crater, and enjoy views of the surrounding landscape. Continue to the Galápagos Tortoise Breeding Center to learn about the conservation of San Cristóbal’s giant tortoises and observe them up close. The tour ends at Puerto Chino, where a short walk leads to a beautiful white-sand beach. Take time to relax, explore, and enjoy the scenery before returning to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno.
Duration
4 hours
Capacity
Up to 16 people
Meeting Point
Galapagos Xcursion Agency
Main Activity
Hiking & swimming

Itinerary

Estimated duration: approximately 4 hours. Recommended time: 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., but you can choose the start time that works best for you.

Before Departure
1
8:30 am
Pick up from your hotel
In the Water · 3 Stops
1
El Junco
Hike up to El Junco Lagoon — a freshwater crater lake surrounded by lush highland scenery, where frigatebirds often gather to bathe.
2
Galapaguera de Cerro Colorado
Walk among giant tortoises at La Galapaguera — a breeding center where you can observe these iconic animals in their natural surroundings.
3
Puerto Chino beach
Relax on the white sands of Puerto Chino Beach — a peaceful bay with turquoise waters, perfect for swimming and enjoying the coastal scenery.

Tour Route

Stops along the route, in order. Select a stop to locate it on the map.

Wildlife

Species commonly seen on this tour — sightings vary by season and sea conditions.

Very Common Sightings
Giant tortoises
Birds around El Junco Lagoon
Often Seen
Blue-footed boobies
Mockingbirds
Frigatebirds

What's Included

Includes
Bilingual naturalist guide
Round-trip land transportation
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Water
Not Included
Galápagos National Park entrance fee
Transit control card
Lunch
Tips

Logistics

Duration
4 hours
Group size
Up to 16 people
Meeting point
Galapagos Xcursion Agency
Departure time
8:30 am
Our Vessel

Meet the Melito

Designed to accommodate up to 12 passengers, the Melito ensures an intimate experience aboard our flagship vessel. Padded seats and distinct internal and external areas let you relax in the shade or enjoy the sun while navigating the Galápagos, guided by a certified naturalist guide, sailor, and seasoned captain.

Capacity
12 passengers
Length
12.53 m
Beam
3.50 m
Engines
2 x 300 HP

Real Stories, Unforgettable Adventures

We don’t just design tours; we create memories that last a lifetime. Discover why hundreds of travelers choose us to explore the magic of San Cristóbal and its hidden treasures.

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