Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
site of the main sea-lion colonies of San Cristóbal. Swimming with
sea-lion pups in the shallows is a tour highlight for many people.
Farther down the coast another hour or so is the sheer-rock outcrop of
Léon Dormido
, or “Sleeping Lion.” This tiny island has been eroded
in half, and boats can pass right through the center if the ocean is
calm enough. Just circling around its massive vertical walls is excit-
ing. There is no landing here, but boats will drift around while you
snorkel between the rocks. The marine display is usually fascinating
- there's a good chance of witnessing sharks or even a massive, spot-
ted eagle ray.
Punta Pitt
and
Turtle Bay
lie at the north end of San Cristóbal.
Punta Pitt offers the chance to see all three species of boobies nesting
in the same area (and the only place to see the nesting red-footed
booby). Sea turtles are often found at Turtle Bay. Inland and a good
hike away is
Los Galápagos
, one of the best places to witness the gi-
ant Galápagos tortoise in its natural environment.
Many tours do not have time for the four-hour
round-trip hike into this area, so be sure to
inquire if you are interested.
PuertoMoreno
is one of twomain towns in the Galápagos (the other
is Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island). Modern facilities include ac-
commodations, restaurants, a tourist office, and even a bit of night-
life. Everything is located along the main street adjacent to the
waterfront.
Santa Fé Island
Santa Fé Island, just two hours southeast of Santa Cruz and only
nine squaremiles in size, is another popular destination for day-trips.
The trail from the landing is a great way to see the giant and endemic
Santa Fé land iguanas
. There is excellent snorkeling here, or you
can just hang out around the sea-lion colony and watch your fellow
travelers flap around in the water.
Santa Fé Island has no modern facilities and is visited by most tours,
particularly the shorter ones.
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