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Exploring With the Best Travel Guide: San Cristobal, Galapagos, Ecuador (South America)

Updated: Jul 9, 2024

San Cristobal was my favorite island in the Galapgos due to its livliness, atmosphere, variety of restaurants, and overall energy! With the best travel guide right here, exploring San Cristobal (Galapagos) will be bewildering and, of course, budget-friendly!

Recommended amount of time: 3-4 days (or longer if you have the time)




  1. Getting to San Cristobal:

  • Fly from the mainland

    • San Cris is one of the two spots you can fly into (SCY) when coming to the Galapagos. Santa Cruz (GPS) is the only other airport where you can fly into/out of from the mainland.

  • Fly from other islands (Santa Cruz or Isabela)

  • Take a ferry from Santa cruz (30 USD)

  • Leaving San Cristobal

    • Flying to another island

    • Taking a ferry at 7 am or 3 pm to Santa Cruz


a. GENERAL TIPS:

  • There is a $20 tourist card (paid in cash) you must get at the airport in Ecuador to even be allowed on the fight.

  • $100 entry fee once you land in Galapagos paid in cash (changing to $200 in August 2024)

  • You NEED USD before entering the island. 

  • Santa Cruz, Isabela, and San Cristobal are the main islands tourists visit

  • All islands have airports but Santa Cruz and San Cristobal fly to the mainland. 

  • Buy your own snorkel on the mainland and carry it around with you everywhere!

  • Don't plan anything until you get there!

  • You do not need to check a bag! The cost of the ticket will rise a lot! I brought only a small backpack for two weeks, did laundry once, and was perfectly fine! Keep in mind that you will wear your bathing suit every single day!

  • AIRBNBs are worth it and very cheap if you're traveling with someone…

  • Make sure there is a kitchen because cooking breakfast will save you a ton of money. 

  • Panaderías are cheap and delicious! 

  • Every island offers a menu of the day for lunch & dinner ranging from 5–10 USD!

  • MIDDLE ATM at Supermarket Proinsular ON SANTA CRUZ is the best ATM across all the Islands for foreigners ($0-2 charge depending on your card)


2. Place of stay

  • AIRBNB: 8/10! Great Airbnb with an excellent location just one street off the main strip. Shared with two other rooms, no hot water (but not necessary in the warm climate), reliable wifi, though the kitchen could use better equipment.


3. Activities

  • Must-Do 360 Tour: This tour company was the cheapest one on the island by a mile, espeically if you opt for the smaller boat. Widely promoted across town for good reason! This tour circles the island 360 degrees, featuring 3–4 snorkeling spots, beautiful beaches, wildlife encounters, and delicious freshly prepared food. During my trip, our guide even caught a fish and turned it into fresh sashimi after a snorkeling session—a fantastic experience!

  • Relaxation Spot: Located close to town, perfect for unwinding. You can also snorkel here if you're interested.

  • Scenic Walk: A pleasant 35-minute walk from town to a crystal-clear water beach. Although snorkeling was hindered by strong winds on the day I visited, it's recommended for calmer days.

  • Snorkeling Paradise: A wonderful spot for snorkeling! Along the way, you can visit the interpretation center to learn about the island and Darwin.

    • Explore Playa Punta Carola and consider a hike out to Playa Baquerizo. The hike to Playa Baquerizo is rocky and takes about an hour, suitable for a low-demanding activity, but the beach itself isn't exceptional for snorkeling—only go if you enjoy a nice hike!

Highlands Day:

  • Arrange this trip by negotiating with a taxi driver (approximately $60–$70) and grab a group of people to split this with! Visit three key spots—El Junco, Galapaguera de Cerro Colorado (tortoise breeding center), and Puerto Chino—a scenic beach in the highlands of San Cristobal. This afternoon excursion allows you to explore at your own pace, with the taxi driver acting as your chauffeur for the half-day.

Rooftop Yoga @ Golden Bay Galapagos:

  • Enjoy various types of yoga sessions on the rooftop of a beautiful hotel. Sunset vinyasa yoga, in particular, offers a breathtaking experience.


4. Food


The Galapagos is truly fantastic and a must-see in your lifetime! Now is one of the most affordable times to visit as prices are gradually rising. Locals are friendly and willing to assist, so don't hesitate to ask for guidance or assistance. Engage in bargaining where appropriate and immerse yourself in the unique wildlife experiences!


Visit:


Xoxo,

Chelsey



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