The Galápagos Islands are synonymous with adventure, nature, and exploration. As a family of three living in Quito, Ecuador, we couldn’t resist visiting San Cristobal Island—an enchanting gem within this renowned archipelago. Our three-day adventure on San Cristobal was magical, with stunning landscapes and unique wildlife at every turn. Join us as we share our unforgettable journey and provide tips for other families considering a similar trip.
Day 1: Arrival and Settling into San Cristobal Our journey began with an early morning flight from Quito, with a short layover in Guayaquil before landing on San Cristobal Island. We were greeted by warm, humid air upon arrival—a stark contrast to Quito’s cooler climate. Before exploring, we needed to take care of some paperwork, paying the Galápagos National Park Entrance Fee and the Transit Control Card fee, which is mandatory for all visitors.
Our pre-arranged taxi service whisked us to our hotel, Casa Playa Mann, a charming boutique bed-and-breakfast just minutes from Playa Mann. We were delighted that the hotel offered a family-friendly atmosphere, making us feel right at home. After settling in, we unpacked our travel essentials and ventured out for food.
Although our initial choice for lunch was closed, we found a place to eat, albeit with mixed results. The dinner experience at Wok by the Sea was decent, but we were left a bit underwhelmed by the food and portion sizes. Despite this, we made the best of our first day by enjoying some time on the hotel’s patio, ordering pizza and shrimp from a local favorite, Giuseppe’s.
Day 2: Adventure and Wildlife Encounters
Our second day began with a morning walk to Playa Mann, just steps from our hotel. The beach’s tranquil setting and the sound of the waves were the perfect way to start the day. After breakfast at the hotel, we ventured into Puerto Baquerizo Moreno’s city center, where marine life blends seamlessly with daily life. The sea lions lounging on the boardwalk were a delightful surprise, and we couldn’t resist capturing photos of these charismatic creatures.
Later in the day, we embarked on a half-day tour that took us to some of San Cristobal’s most iconic spots. El Junco Lagoon, a volcanic crater lake, was our first stop, offering breathtaking views and a refreshing walk through lush surroundings. Our next destination, Cerro Colorado Tortoise Reserve, allowed us to see the Galápagos giant tortoises in their natural habitat.
The final stop of the day was Puerto Chino, a stunning beach accessible by a short hike. The walk was challenging, especially with a toddler, but the final destination made it all worthwhile. The white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters were perfect for a relaxing afternoon. We spent time enjoying the sun and having a light lunch before heading back to the hotel.
That evening, we dined at Midori Sushi Pub, which came highly recommended. The sushi platter and fish ‘sticks’ were exceptional, and the fresh flavors made it the best meal of our trip. This was the perfect end to a day filled with exploration and adventure.
Day 3: Relaxation and Farewell On our final day, we took it easy, starting with another delightful breakfast at the hotel. The hotel’s tranquil setting and delicious food made it easy to unwind and prepare for our journey back home. We spent time walking along the boardwalk, exploring the city center, and enjoying ice cream cones as we soaked in the sun.
After a leisurely morning, we spent the afternoon at Playa Mann, where we relaxed on the beach and enjoyed the ocean’s soothing presence. Gideon, our toddler, loved playing in the sand and splashing in the waves, creating cherished memories for our family.
As the day came to a close, we headed out for our final dinner on the island, choosing a bar and grill called the Post Office. While the food was just okay, the sunset over the water made up for any shortcomings, providing a picturesque ending to our Galápagos adventure.
Our 3-day trip to San Cristobal was a remarkable experience that we’ll cherish for years. From exploring the island’s natural beauty to encountering unique wildlife, our family adventure in the Galápagos was a dream come true. If you’re considering a visit to the Galápagos Islands, we highly recommend starting with San Cristobal. It’s family-friendly, easy to navigate, and offers a great mix of wildlife and outdoor activities. We hope our journey inspires you to embark on your own adventure in this incredible part of the world.
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