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Santa Cristobal Island


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VISITOR SITES

PUERTO BAQUERIZO MORENO

Galapagos beach

The capital of the Galapagos Islands, Puerto Baquerizo Moreno (pop. 5500) supports the seafaring interests of both surfers and fishermen. When December and March bring sizable swells, sea lions share the waves with people at famous surf spots like Punta Carola or After Reef, while the congestion of motorboats and pelicans reveals the port’s true nature as a fishing town. Despite the seasonal surfing craze, this town exudes more tranquility than its bustling neighbor, Puerto Ayora.

Visiting Puerto Baquerizo Moreno's sights takes just a few hours, but it's easy to while away the day at any of the quiet, cove-like beaches.

Puerto Baquerizo Moreno streets

INTERPRETATION CENTER

The center's architecture arid environments are treats in and of themselves: wooden walkways wind through modern buildings amid lush plant life and ocean views. Its informative exhibits, providing some of the best and most comprehensive information about the Galapagos, trace the geological and human history of the islands.

Colorful Spanish/English displays explain everything from the evolution of Darwin's finches to chronicles from the infamous pirates and prisoners who once inhabited the islands. A trail (15min.) from the Center leads to Cerro de las Tijeretas.

CERRO TIJERETAS

 Just beyond the Interpretation Center, a well made, rocky trail allow for incredible views, access to Bahia Tijeretas (a prime spot for photography, swimming, or snorkeling), and observation of frigatebirds’ nesting site. Nick named Tijeretas for the bladelike movements of their trails, the exotic black birds are most well known for their bright red pouches, which males inflate during mating season. An abundance of frigates used nest here, but, for unknown reasons, their population has shrunk dramatically.

PLAYA CABO DEL HORNO

Past the Interpretation Center, another short trail leads to this small, quiet beach trimmed with mangroves trees. Although the sometimes rough current makes swimming dangerous, the lava rock formations along the coast are great spots to watch some of the islands’ best surfers ride huge waves at nearby Punta Carola.

CERRO BRUJO

The collapse volcano offers a spectacular geographical sight in a one of the most fascinating places in the archipelago. Cerro Brujo is a must for all those who appreciate volcanic landscape, and beaches with white sand and turquoise waters.

LEON DORMIDO (KICKER ROCK)

This pristine volcanic formation, made up of two islets, will impress you with is statuesque size and its height of 148 metres. This place, the most emblematic of the island, is surrounded by crystal clear waters which are home to wide variety of marine flora and fauna, where you can go snorkeling or scuba diving.

PLAYA OCHOA

Very near the port, but reached by sea, lies one the most interesting beaches on the island, where you can enjoy the peaces and natural setting offers by this delightful place.

ISLA LOBOS

A few minutes from Playa Ochoa is the starting point of one of the most interesting walks along the trails of Isla Lobos. This spectacular islet is situated off the coast of the Capital of Paradise, and its great diversity makes it an ideal destination.

 

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