Your Travel Experience with Galapagos PRO
El Junco Lagoon
The green highlands of San Cristóbal are the agricultural heart of the island. Here livestock and organic fruit cultivation farming are the backbone of the local communities.
In the middle of this area is the only freshwater lake in the entire archipelago. El Junco is filled solely by rainwater and has a capacity of 360,000 m³ of water. The lake has a diameter of around 270 m and measures 6 metres at its deepest point. In the dry season, the level drops to 1 metre and in the rainy season, the lake often overflows, forming a small stream.
A variety of endemic ferns and perennials grow around the lake, as well as the Miconia robinsoniana - an endemic species only found in San Christobal.
Los Petreles Reserve
The Los Petreles Reserve in the upper part of San Cristóbal will take you from 300 to 540 meters above sea level. It spans 118 hectares of forest covered with species such as Miconia (Miconia robinsoniana), Galápagos tree ferns (Cythea weatherbyana), and bracken (Pteridium aquilium arachnoideum), among others. You will be accompanied by your private English-speaking guide, and upon arrival, the park rangers will welcome you and provide a brief introduction; then, you will take a hike along the trail to explore and learn about the nesting colony of the Galapagos petrels (Pterodroma phaeopygia), their biology and ecology; as well as the relationship between this living conservation laboratory and the park rangers, scientists, and the local community; participating in activities that strengthen your connection to biodiversity and long-term conservation. Tickets will be handled by Jocotoco, the agency that manages the nature reserve. The natural reserve does not includes a professional tour guide
The Reserve La Galapaguera
In the highland plains of the island of San Cristóbal lies the reserve La Galapaguera - a breeding ground for giant tortoises. The leisurely giants move freely in their natural habitat, seek out cooling mud pots, slowly munching a few blades of grass, or leisurely ambling on their way without taking any notice of the tourists. The dry and tropic climate attracts not only giant tortoises but also scarlet flycatchers and mockingbirds. If you plan to visit the Galapaguera on your own, you must purchase a guided tour ticket for a specific time slot (admissions every hour). You must purchase these tickets in advance at a local travel agency in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. Tickets are NOT sold on-site at the entrance.
Puerto Chino Beach
A path of black lava rock leads you to the beach of Puerto Chino, this afternoon. Walk along the small, white beach, feel the fine sand under your feet and breathe in the fresh, salty air - relaxation at its best.