If you want to discover the very best that San Cristobal Island has to offer, including its rich marine biodiversity, don't miss this 5-day tour with scuba diving—you'll enjoy the Galapagos by land and sea!
5-Day Galapagos adventure
Day 1: San Cristobal Airport - Tijeretas Hill - La Loberia Beach
Upon your arrival at San Cristobal Airport, our team will be ready to pick you up and take you into the enchanting world of the Galapagos Islands. Your home for the next few days will be Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, where we'll begin our exploration.
Our first destination is the awe-inspiring Tijeretas Hill, a natural sanctuary bustling with frigate birds and an array of other bird species. Our guides will share insights into the distinctive birdlife as we take in the panoramic views from this natural viewpoint.
Following a delicious lunch, we'll continue our journey to La Loberia Beach, a hidden gem with coral sand and a thriving sea lion population. Immerse yourself in the magical world of the Galapagos as you encounter marine iguanas, yellow warblers, finches, and other endemic species. As the sun sets, we'll return to the hotel in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno.
Day 2: San Cristobal Interpretation Center - Mann Beach
After a hearty breakfast, we'll dive into the history of the Galapagos Islands at the San Cristobal Interpretation Center. Explore the islands' natural and human history through engaging exhibits, including Natural History and Human History sections.
After a delightful lunch at a local restaurant, we'll spend our afternoon at Mann Beach. Formed by the fragmentation of shells, this picturesque beach offers prime conditions for snorkeling and diving. As the day transitions into evening, prepare to witness a mesmerizing sunset.
We'll then take you back to your hotel in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno.
Day 3: Diving in Tijeretas - Karahua - The Coral Caves or the Bay
We'll kick off our third day post-breakfast. Boarding the boat, our destination is Tijeretas, a mere 15-minute journey away.
At Tijeretas, dive into depths ranging from 5 to 35 meters (16 to 115 feet). Ready for the dive? To guide our descent and ascent, we'll use the coast as a reference, as this area is so pristine that there are no buoys. The bottom is rocky up to 18 meters, beyond which lies a sandy bed where eels and batfish can be spotted. Keep an eye out for sea turtles, marbled rays, sea lions, octopus, and moray eels.
Our second dive takes us to Karahua, another 15-minute boat ride from Tijeretas. This shipwreck, dating back to 1916 and around 100 meters (328 feet) long, once transported food to the Galapagos twice a year. Despite the years and the sea's effects, parts of the ship, including the anchor, steering blade, bow, and engine, are still impressively visible.
Continuing our dive adventure, we explore the Coral Cave or the Bay Cave, depending on weather conditions. Both offer a glimpse into fascinating marine formations, and you might spot turtles, rays, octopus, moray eels, and colorful fish. With luck, you might even catch sight of the Galapagos sleeper!
Wrapping up the day, we'll return to the hotel in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno.
Day 4: El Junco Lagoon - Galapaguera - Puerto Chino
Following a delightful breakfast, we'll venture to El Junco Lagoon, nestled inside an extinct volcano. Get ready for a scenic hike through this natural haven teeming with reeds and miconias unique to the Galapagos. It's a captivating experience!
Post-hike, we'll guide you to the Cerro Colorado Galapaguera, a sanctuary housing tons of land tortoises. Dive into insights about the diverse reptile species inhabiting the Galapagos and catch glimpses of various birds and native vegetation.
As the fourth day winds down, relax on the tranquil shores of Puerto Chino, framed by lava rocks and mangrove forests. Witness sea lion colonies, occasional turtles, and an array of birds—the perfect conclusion!
To cap it off, we'll transport you back to the hotel in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno.
Day 5: San Cristobal Airport
After breakfast, enjoy some free time until we take you back to San Cristobal airport, ensuring you're well-timed for your return flight.
Accommodation
Your 4-night stay in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno includes various options, which you'll be able to choose during the booking process:
- Hostel accommodation: Hotel Cabañas Pimampiro or equivalent
- 3-star hotel accommodation: Casa Playa Mann or equivalent
Please note that the indicated price is per person sleeping in a double room.
Return flight
The tour spans five days. For instance, if you begin on Tuesday, plan your return flight for the following Saturday of the same week.
