- Ship
- 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Arrive at the wind-sculpted cliffs of Pitt Point, the first sight of land when Charles Darwin arrived in the Galapagos aboard the HMS Beagle on September 15, 1835. Disembark to that very same small green sand beach, where a group of barking sea lions first greets you.
Behind this dreamy beach, cross some thorny bushes, and begin a trail that takes you to the top of the cliff through a ravine. As you ascend, marvel at the landscapes of this geological wonder, where you can find three species of boobies breeding and playing: blue-footed, red-footed, and Nazca. Two species of frigate birds can be found as well (Great and Magnificent). Don't miss the chance to snorkel or kayak around these far-away, dreamlike shores.
Activities: Hiking, Snorkeling, Dinghy ride
Navigate to Kicker Rock, an impressive natural sculpture rising up from the ocean on the northeast coast of San Cristobal Island. From the side, it takes the shape of a giant shoe upside down with the tower as a high heel (hence its name Kicker Rock). In its longitudinal direction, it resembles a sleeping lion (explaining its Spanish name Leon Dormido). After, begin your adventure at Witch Hill.
Witch Hill is the remains of a tuff cone, and its primary attraction is a coral sand beach that opens into a tranquil bay. Snorkeling here leads to a marine habitat for marine iguanas, stingrays, white-tipped sharks, eagle rays, turtles, morays, garden eels, and many kinds of reef fishes.
Behind the sand dunes of the beach, there is a dry dark lava flow with salty ponds, which serve as a refreshment spot for iguanas, as well as a strategic place to observe coastal and migratory birds, including pelicans, blue-footed boobies, and swallow-tailed gulls.
Activities: Hiking, Snorkeling