Aerial view of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, San Cristóbal, Galápagos
San Cristóbal Island · Galápagos, Ecuador

Around San Cristóbal

Discover the wonders of the oldest inhabited island in the Galápagos

San Cristóbal is the administrative capital of the Galápagos Islands and one of the most biodiverse places on Earth. From volcanic lagoons to pristine beaches and extraordinary wildlife, every corner of this island holds a new adventure.

Beaches

Beaches

Playa Mann

5 min walk

A calm, sheltered beach right in town — perfect for swimming and snorkelling alongside sea lions and marine iguanas.

Playa Carola

15 min walk

A wilder, more dramatic beach with strong surf and frequent sea lion colonies. A favourite for surfers and wildlife watchers.

La Lobería

20 min taxi

A rugged black lava coastline teeming with sea lions, marine iguanas, and blue-footed boobies.

Nature & Wildlife

Nature & Wildlife

Laguna El Junco

45 min drive

The only freshwater lake in the Galápagos, nestled in an ancient volcanic crater at 700m altitude. Home to frigate birds and stunning panoramic views.

Galapaguera de Cerro Colorado

30 min drive

A giant tortoise breeding centre where you can walk among these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

Punta Pitt

Boat tour

The only place in the Galápagos where all three species of booby — blue-footed, red-footed, and Nazca — nest together.

Town & Culture

Town & Culture

Malecón Charles Darwin

5 min walk

The lively waterfront promenade lined with restaurants, cafés, and sea lions lounging on the benches — a perfect evening stroll.

Interpretation Centre

10 min walk

An excellent free museum covering the natural and human history of the Galápagos Islands, from volcanic formation to conservation.

Frigate Bird Hill

15 min walk

A short hike above town offering panoramic views of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno and the chance to see magnificent frigate birds nesting.

Water Activities

Water Activities

Snorkelling at Kicker Rock

Boat tour

One of the most iconic dive sites in the Galápagos — a dramatic volcanic formation rising from the sea, surrounded by hammerhead sharks, sea turtles, and rays.

Kayaking & Paddleboarding

At the hotel

Explore the calm waters around Puerto Baquerizo Moreno by kayak or paddleboard, often accompanied by playful sea lions.

Scuba Diving

Dive centre nearby

San Cristóbal offers world-class diving with encounters with whale sharks, Galápagos sharks, and vast schools of fish.

Local tip

Our team at Katarma can arrange guided tours, boat trips, and activities for you. Just ask at reception — we know all the best spots and the most knowledgeable local guides.

Stay at the heart of it all

Katarma Galapagos puts you steps from the waterfront and minutes from the island's greatest adventures.

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