San Cristobal Island is one of the oldest islands in the Galapagos, geologically speaking. As you relax on the sundeck of your yacht you’ll notice that four volcanoes have fused together, creating its distinctive shape. A single lake, El Junco, provides the island with fresh water, and for this reason it became inhabited relatively early on. The lake is accessible on an enjoyable late afternoon hike.
When Darwin sailed to the Galapagos, San Cristobal was the first place he came ashore. Today, San Cristobal is one of the few islands in the Galapagos accessible by plane: you can fly here direct from Quito, which is significantly faster though less romantic than coming by boat.
On the island there are plenty of sites of interest to budding conservationists. La Galapaguera, just off the coast, is a sanctuary and breeding station for giant tortoise; and blue footed booby nest at Isla Lobos. In the waters around the island you can spot dolphin, shark, and ray, and there are also plenty of marine iguana, lobster, and sea lion.
