San Cristobal’s most worthwhile tours pack a lot of natural wonder into your precious vacation time. The 360 San Cristobal stands out as my favorite, offering intimate small-group snorkeling with sea turtles, rays, and tropical fish. Lobos Island‘s half-day excursion impresses with its expert wildlife spotting and relaxed pace – perfect for families. For maximum value, the 360 Degrees full-day adventure includes both snorkeling and a tasty local lunch.
Multi-day options like the 7-Day Classic and 6-Day Land tours work well for travelers wanting to experience the Galapagos in depth. Let’s look at the specifics of these top San Cristobal experiences.
Key Points
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The 360 San Cristobal Tour offers a comprehensive snorkeling experience with diverse marine life encounters, suitable for up to 10 participants.
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The Tour Lobos Island tour provides a scenic boat ride and opportunities to spot sea lions and marine iguanas, with a 3.5-star rating.
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The Full Day San Cristobal Tour – 360 Degrees is a small-group tour that includes snorkeling at Sardina Bay and Kicker Rock, as well as a freshly prepared lunch.
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The Galapagos 360 Tour is a full-day adventure priced from $260, with a maximum of 10 participants and encounters with turtles and dolphins.
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The Kicker Rock Adventure Tour offers a personalized experience for up to 12 travelers, with snorkeling, lunch, and refreshments included, and a 4.7 overall rating.
Full Day Tour 360 San Cristobal – Best of the Island
The Full Day Tour 360 San Cristobal – Best of the Island offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the Galapagos Islands’ underwater wonders. This full-day snorkeling tour departs from San Cristobal, allowing adventurers to discover the vibrant marine life at top sites like Rosa Blanca and Sardinia Bay.
Travelers can expect to encounter mesmerizing creatures such as hammerhead sharks, sea turtles, rays, and octopuses.
The tour includes transportation, a provided lunch accommodating dietary needs, and all necessary snorkeling equipment. With a maximum of 10 participants, the group size ensures personalized attention from the certified naturalist guide.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and may not be suitable for those with back problems or serious medical conditions, most travelers can participate.
Reviews for this tour are mixed, with some praising the incredible snorkeling and crew, while others have reported issues with booking prices, meal requests, and equipment sizes.
To potentially save money, booking on the island is recommended, though availability may be a risk.
Read our full review: Full Day Tour 360 San Cristobal – Best of the Island Review
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Tour Lobos Island From San Cristobal
For those seeking a more relaxed Galapagos experience, the Tour Lobos Island from San Cristobal offers a scenic boat ride to the island, where visitors can spot wildlife like sea lions, frigates, and marine iguanas.
The tour also provides snorkeling opportunities, with the chance to see stingrays and sea turtles. Lunch is included, and advanced booking is required to guarantee a spot. The tour costs $218.67 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
The meeting point is in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, and participants can depart from either the office in San Cristobal or the dock. The tour ends at the San Cristobal Main Dock.
While the tour includes a professional bilingual guide, snorkeling equipment, and all taxes and fees, it excludes gratuities, SCUBA equipment, and towels.
Reviews for the tour are mixed, with a 3.5-star rating from 11 reviews. Positive comments focus on the relaxing nature and wildlife interactions, while criticism surrounds organization, equipment availability, and customer service.
Read our full review: Tour Lobos Island From San Cristobal Review
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Full Day San Cristobal Tour – 360 Degrees
Although there are various tours available in San Cristobal, the Full Day San Cristobal Tour – 360 Degrees offers a unique and immersive experience for visitors.
This small-group tour, limited to a maximum of 10 participants, is ideal for solo travelers, couples, and families seeking an up-close encounter with the island’s diverse marine life.
The highlight of the tour is snorkeling at Sardina Bay and Kicker Rock, where participants can spot hammerhead sharks, sea turtles, sea lions, and octopi.
The tour includes a freshly prepared lunch and all necessary snorkeling equipment. While wetsuits must be rented separately, the overall package provides excellent value.
Travelers should be aware that some have found the tour physically demanding, so it may not be suitable for older individuals or those with back issues.
Read our full review: Full Day San Cristobal Tour – 360 Degrees Review
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7-Day Galapagos Island Classic Tour: Los Tuneles and Local Flight
A 7-day Galapagos Islands adventure, the Day Galapagos Island Classic Tour: Los Tuneles and Local Flight offers small-group exploration of the archipelago’s major sites.
With a maximum of 15 travelers, the tour includes guided excursions and independent exploration of destinations like Puerto Ayora, Santa Fe, Isabela, Kicker Rock, and the iconic Los Tuneles.
Accommodation is provided in private hotel rooms, and meals include 6 breakfasts and 4 lunches.
The tour includes airport transfers, transportation between islands, and the services of an English and Spanish-speaking naturalist guide.
Snorkeling equipment, the Galapagos National Park entrance fee, and the Migratory Control Card are also covered.
Travelers should note the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and may be unsuitable for those with back problems or serious medical conditions.
While a family-friendly experience, the tour’s pricing starts at $2,515 per person and is non-refundable.
Read our full review: 7-Day Galapagos Island Classic Tour: Los Tuneles and Local Flight Review
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Full Day Galapagos 360 Tour From San Cristobal (Naturalist Guide)
Embarking on a comprehensive Galapagos 360 Tour from San Cristobal, travelers can expect to witness the archipelago’s diverse marine life up close.
This full-day adventure, priced from $260 per person, offers a maximum group size of 10, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience. Accompanied by a bilingual naturalist guide, guests will enjoy a range of inclusions, such as lunch, appetizers, beverages, and top-notch snorkeling equipment.
The tour’s highlights include encounters with turtles, small sharks, colorful fish, sea lions, and even dolphins and orcas. Snorkeling through the renowned Kickers Rock promises vibrant sea life.
With a moderate physical fitness level required, the tour caters to a wide range of travelers, though it’s not recommended for those with certain medical conditions.
Based on 9 reviews, the Galapagos 360 Tour boasts an impressive 4.8-star rating, with praise for the wildlife sightings, guide expertise, and overall tour organization.
Read our full review: Full Day Galapagos 360 Tour From San Cristobal (Naturalist Guide) Review
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Full-day Adventure Tour at Kicker Rock (León Dormido)
For travelers seeking an exhilarating day exploring the renowned Kicker Rock (León Dormido) off the coast of San Cristobal, the full-day adventure tour provides a captivating opportunity.
This tour, boasting a 4.7 overall rating from 7 reviews, offers a personalized experience for a maximum of 12 travelers. Snorkeling with native wildlife, including sea turtles, sharks, and blue-footed boobies, is the highlight of the day.
The tour includes all necessary snorkeling equipment, a delectable lunch with various dietary options, and refreshments such as coffee, tea, and alcoholic beverages. Participants will also have access to a restroom on board, clean towels, and a swimming life vest.
The tour starts at 8:30 AM and ends back at the meeting point, Sazón Canela in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, with participants needing to meet at least one day prior at 6 PM local time.
Despite some concerns about last-minute cancellations, the overall feedback from reviewers suggests an excellent snorkeling experience and a knowledgeable guide.
Read our full review: Full-day Adventure Tour at Kicker Rock (León Dormido) Review
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4 Days Galapagos Land Tour – Visiting San Cristobal Island
Travelers seeking a comprehensive exploration of San Cristobal Island in the Galapagos can opt for the 4-day land tour, which offers a captivating blend of hiking, snorkeling, and wildlife encounters.
The tour includes accommodations, meals, and transportation, with the flexibility to choose from different hotel classes to suit various budgets. Highlights include visiting Kicker Rock, Cerro Tijeretas, and La Loberia, where visitors can observe sea lions, Galapagos turtles, and sharks in their natural habitats.
The tour provides snorkel equipment and the services of knowledgeable, bilingual naturalist guides to enhance the experience.
Travelers should note the moderate physical fitness required and the importance of adhering to the itinerary, as it’s subject to change due to National Park regulations.
While air tickets and some additional fees aren’t included, the tour offers a convenient and immersive way to discover the wonders of San Cristobal Island.
Read our full review: 4 Days Galapagos Land Tour – Visiting San Cristobal Island Review
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Full-day Adventure Tour at Espanola Island (Waved Albatross Island)
The Full-day Adventure Tour at Espanola Island (Waved Albatross Island) offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore one of the Galapagos’ most captivating destinations.
Operated by Galapagos Local, this private tour takes visitors on a journey to the stunning Espanola Island, home to the iconic waved albatross.
The tour includes snorkeling equipment, a delicious lunch with vegan and vegetarian options, and complimentary coffee, tea, and alcoholic beverages.
With a moderate physical fitness level required, the tour is suitable for most travelers. The meeting point is in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, and the tour starts at 6:30 am, returning to the same location.
According to reviews, the knowledgeable guide, Martin, and the fun captain, Robert, contribute to the overall positive experience.
While Viator’s pricing is higher than local options, the tour offers a comprehensive adventure with a focus on safety and accessibility.
Guests should be aware of the non-refundable cancellation policy before booking.
Read our full review: Full-day Adventure Tour at Espanola Island (Waved Albatross Island) Review
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6 Days Galapagos Land Tour Starting in San Cristobal Island Including Santa Cruz
This 6-day Galapagos Land Tour offers an immersive exploration of the islands, starting from San Cristóbal and including the stunning Santa Cruz.
Travelers will discover key landmarks like the San Cristóbal Interpretation Center, Kicker Rock, La Lobería Beach, and the Charles Darwin Research Station. The tour includes snorkeling with turtles and observing giant tortoises, led by bilingual naturalist guides.
Accommodations range from economic to first-class, with 5 nights and most meals included. While flights to/from Galapagos, dinners, and additional fees are excluded, the package covers all land and sea transportation, snorkel equipment, and a transfer between the departure and arrival airports.
Group size is limited to 12 travelers, with moderate fitness required. Flexibility is advised, as the itinerary may change due to park regulations or circumstances.
Read our full review: 6 Days Galapagos Land Tour Starting in San Cristobal Island Including Santa Cruz Review
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8-Day Galapagos Island Hopping Tour-Explore 5 Islands-Snorkel,Hike & Wildlife
Although the 8-Day Galapagos Island Hopping Tour explores five distinct islands, it promises an immersive experience that extends far beyond surface-level sightseeing.
With a maximum group size of 10 travelers, this tour offers an intimate and personalized adventure. Snorkeling and hiking activities allow visitors to connect with the islands’ diverse wildlife, including sea turtles and blue-footed boobies.
The tour includes all necessary equipment, such as snorkeling gear and wetsuits, ensuring guests can fully enjoy the Galapagos’ underwater world. Accommodations, meals, and transportation are provided, with a certified English/Spanish-speaking guide to enhance the experience.
While the Galapagos National Park entrance fee, INGALA fee, and other incidentals are additional costs, the tour’s all-inclusive nature streamlines the planning process.
With 24-hour support in English and Spanish, travelers can explore the Galapagos Islands with confidence and peace of mind.
Read our full review: 8-Day Galapagos Island Hopping Tour-Explore 5 Islands-Snorkel,Hike & Wildlife Review
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7-Day Luxury Safari Tour of the Galapagos Islands
Offering a more premium and immersive Galapagos experience, the 7-Day Luxury Safari Tour takes travelers on an intimate exploration of the islands. Priced from $6,748 per person, the tour includes 6 nights’ accommodation, select meals, all activities, and essential equipment like snorkeling gear.
With a maximum group size of 15, travelers can expect personalized attention and an exclusive experience. The tour covers San Cristobal and other key islands, allowing participants to enjoy the Galapagos’ renowned wildlife and landscapes.
Transportation, both on and between the islands, is provided. Mandatory fees like the Migratory Control Card and national park entrance are also included. While flights to/from the mainland are an additional cost, the operator offers 24/7 assistance in multiple languages.
Prospective travelers should note the tour’s health and safety requirements, such as valid insurance and limitations for certain medical conditions. Strict cancellation policies also apply.
Read our full review: 7-Day Luxury Safari Tour of the Galapagos Islands Review
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The Sum Up
The Galapagos Islands offer a wealth of outdoor adventures, from day tours to multi-day island-hopping expeditions. Visitors to San Cristobal can explore the island’s diverse landscapes, observe unique wildlife, and enjoy the natural wonders that make this destination so captivating. Whether you’re interested in a 360-degree tour, a visit to Lobos Island, or a more comprehensive Galapagos exploration, there are plenty of options to suit every traveler’s interests and preferences.