Highlands Tour
Discover the interior of San Cristóbal: a freshwater volcanic crater, giant tortoises in the wild and a calm-water beach.
4photosThe Highlands Tour explores the interior of San Cristóbal by vehicle, showing a side of the island very different from the coast: humid forests, volcanic craters and trails through native vegetation.
We visit three iconic spots. El Junco Lagoon, a freshwater reservoir formed by a natural volcanic crater in the highlands and a refuge for many bird species. La Galapaguera, a protected area where giant tortoises roam in their natural habitat alongside finches and the San Cristóbal owl. And Puerto Chino Beach, a spacious beach with calm waters where it's common to see sea lions, green turtles, manta rays and blue-footed boobies.
The tour lasts about 4 hours, with one hour at each point.
How the day unfolds
- Start
Meeting point · Departure by vehicle
Pickup in central Puerto Baquerizo Moreno and start of the drive toward the highlands.
- Stop 1
El Junco Lagoon
A freshwater reservoir formed by a volcanic crater in the highlands. Part of the Galápagos National Park and a refuge for many bird species.
- Stop 2
La Galapaguera
A protected area where giant tortoises roam in their natural habitat, along with the gray warbler finch and the San Cristóbal owl among trees and shrubs. Entrance costs USD 10 per person, paid directly on site.
- Stop 3
Puerto Chino Beach
A spacious beach with calm waters, a favorite for swimming. It's common to see sea lions, green turtles, manta rays and blue-footed boobies.
- End
Return to port
Return to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno after about 4 hours of touring.
What's included and what's not
Includes
- Land transport (taxi, minivan or bus depending on the group)
Not included
- La Galapaguera entrance fee (USD 10 per person, paid on site)
What to bring
Bring USD 10 in cash per person for the La Galapaguera entrance fee. Also bring biodegradable sunscreen, a cap, comfortable walking shoes, light clothing, a swimsuit and a change of clothes if you plan to swim at Puerto Chino Beach.
