San Cristobal Island

The island of San Cristobal also called Chatham Island, is one of the easternmost of the Galapagos Islands in the eastern Pacific Ocean. The island lies about 600 miles away from the west side of Ecuador and is the most populated and fertile island of the entire archipelago. One of the oldest islands in the Galapagos, the main town of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, which is the base for most accommodations, restaurants, and activities and the gateway to other islands. The town boasts a laid-back island vibe where most restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops can be found along the two main streets in town; Malecon Charles Darwin runs along the waterfront and parallel to it a few blocks to the east is the main thoroughfare. There are numerous waterfront hotels and a small beach in town where the resident sea lions can be seen lounging on benches. A small fishing town with a port and there are several important landmarks situated in the town such as the Interpretation Center and the Charles Darwin Statue; marking the original place where he set foot on the islands in 1835.

There are more beaches encircling the island and the Cerro San Joaquin Mountains sit in the heart with an elevation of 2,940 feet above sea level. The island boasts an abundance of wildlife including two species of black frigate birds, sea lions, marine iguanas, Galapagos tortoise and blue-footed boobie birds. Lush green vegetation covers the island where Calandrinia galapagosa, Lecocarpus darwinii and trees such as Lignum vitae and matazarno grow. The beaches and coves dotted around the island are a hotspot for surfing, swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking with plenty of marine life to be seen including turtles, dolphins, and fish.