San Cristóbal Highlands Tour & Farm Visit
ACTIVITY LEVEL: Easy/Moderate
DURATION: ~6 hours
SAN CRISTOBAL HIGHLANDS TOUR MAP:
HIGHLANDS TOUR ITINERARY:
We will pick you up at your hotel at the designated time and drive 20 minutes to El Junco crater lake at an elevation of 2,300 feet above sea level. If conditions are good, we will climb the steep stairs to the top of the crater. Total visit is around 30 minutes. If visibility is poor, we will make this stop at the end of the tour with the hope that conditions improve.
From El Junco, it’s a 10-minute drive to La Galapaguera tortoise research & conservation center where we will visit the giant tortoises by walking on a rocky but mostly level trail for about one hour.
After another short drive, we’ll reach the end of the road at Puerto Chino. We’ll walk the paved trail for about 10 minutes to the sandy beach where we can relax and swim or go for a short hike to the lookout point over the bay.
Next we’ll proceed to a local farm to learn more about animal husbandry and sample seasonal fresh fruits. Alternately, we’ll visit a property that showcases many trees and plants and has a beautiful view of the ocean.
Upon our return to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno town center we’ll drop you off at your hotel.
The order of site visits in this itinerary may be adjusted due to weather conditions.
THINGS TO REMEMBER:
- The tour operator will not be responsible for any accidents or injuries that may occur.
- Familiarize yourself with the Galapagos National Park rules.
- The water temperature averages 21°C / 70°F.
- There are no restrooms at El Junco or Puerto Chino.
WILDLIFE YOU MAY ENCOUNTER:
Sea lions, sea turtles, lava lizards, blue-footed boobies, giant tortoises, frigates, finches and other birds.
WHAT’S INCLUDED:
- Accompanied by an English- & Spanish-speaking local resident
- Ground transportation
- Admission to a local farm or other private property to be determined based on your interests
- Lunch may be included depending on your customized itinerary
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED:
- $10 per person National Park guide fee at La Galapaguera
WHAT TO WEAR/BRING:
- Wide-brim hat
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Water and snacks
- Comfortable walking shoes that can get muddy
- Swimsuit and towel
- Light jacket
- Camera
- Small backpack and dry bag
Feel more adventurous? You can do a variation of this tour by bicycle!