San Cristobál Diving

Upon arrival on San Cristobál Island you will be transferred to the Islands’ Interpretation Centre to learn about the origin of the fascinating archipelago. After that, we will hike for about 2 hours until we arrive at Frigate Hill, a magnificent spot to observe the frigate birds. We will end the day with a snorkelling adventure in Frigate Bay, before returning to your selected hotel.

Day 2 and 3 will offer you diving experiences in the following locations, dependant on availability, operation day, diving options, and Galapagos National Park Authorisation. The four following diving sites apply for selection for both today and the next day:

1) Kicker Rock: Located on the west side of Sa Cristobál about 45 minutes away from Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, with moderate to strong currents, this magnificent diving spot in the middle of the ocean where the titular rock comes up to 152m (500 ft) above the sea is home to dozens of marine creatures, such as hammerhead and white-tipped reef sharks, barracudas, sea turtles, and an array of tropical fish. Two immersions are planned on this site; one along the canal between the rocks, and the second immersion being done on the backside of the rock. Each immersion will last approx. 45 minutes, with a maximum diving depth of between 20 and 25 meters. After the immersions, there is a stop at Manglesito beach for time to relax and sunbathe. It is important to note that divers that have not dived for more than seven months must have a scuba review prior to this excursion, subject to an additional cost.

2) Tijeretas & Carahua: Tijeretas, with moderate currents, is only 10 minutes away from the port at Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, with the dive taking place at a maximum of 12 meters. On the other hand, at Carahua, there is a 100-year-old sunken ship at a depth of 14 meters, with the propellers, anchor and engines of the steamboat still visible on the dive. You may encounter sea turtles, manta rays, sea lions, and tropical fish on this dive, among other species.

*See Day3 for other two options for this day.

Day 2 and 3 will offer you diving experiences in the following locations, dependant on availability, operation day, diving options, and Galapagos National Park Authorisation. The four following diving sites apply for selection for both today and the previous day:

3) Punta Pitt: Punta Pitt, located on the East side of San Cristobál Island, is effected by moderate currents, and is the only site in the whole Galapagos Islands that is home to all three species of boobies. There is a 3km path up to the top of the nearby mountain to watch over Punta Pitt. In terms of diving, Punta Pitta offers visibility of around 10-15 meters (32-49 ft), with a depth of 6 to 23 meters (20-75 ft). On this dive, you may encounter sea turtles, manta rays, and pelagic fish, among an array of other aquatic species.

4) Española: Española, also known as “the Jewel of Galapagos”, is and island on the southeast of the archipelago, effected by moderate to strong currents. From April to December, this site is home to breeding Albatrosses in their many colonies. In the diving spot, Gardner Bay, located on the northeast side of Española, allows you to encounter sea lions, white-tipped reef sharks, pufferfish, and a mosaic of other marine life. It is important to note that divers that have not dived for more than seven months must have a scuba review prior to this excursion, subject to an additional cost.

*See the Day 2 for other two options for this day.

Transfer back to San Cristobál Airport for your flight back to the mainland.

End of services.