Highlands Tours
$70.00 / per person
Nature, History, and Unique Landscapes in an Unforgettable Tour
Explore the green heart of San Cristóbal on this land-based tour that connects you with the island’s biodiversity, culture, and geology. The highlands offer a different face of the Galápagos: misty trails, giant tortoises in their natural habitat, and breathtaking viewpoints.
This tour is perfect for those who want to go beyond the beaches and immerse themselves in the humid, volcanic landscape that gives life to the island.
- Round-trip ground transportation from your accommodation
- Entrance to all visited sites
- Time for walks and wildlife observation
- Stops at key points along the route
- This tour is designed for you to enjoy at your own pace. The option to incluide a naturalistic guide is available for an additional cost for those who want more information
Highlands Tour Stops
El Junco Lagoon
Located over 600 meters above sea level, El Junco is the only permanent freshwater lagoon in the entire Galápagos archipelago. It formed in the crater of an ancient volcano and is surrounded by native vegetation.
You’ll enjoy a short hike with spectacular views from the lookout point, and you may spot iconic birds like frigatebirds and ducks that use the lagoon to clean their wings. Occasional mist gives this spot a mystical and unique atmosphere.
“La Galapaguera de Cerro Colorado” Breeding Center
This conservation center is one of the most important environmental education sites on the island. You’ll witness the breeding and care process of the San Cristóbal giant tortoises (Chelonoidis chathamensis), a species in danger of extinction.
The visit includes interpretive trails where you can see tortoises from just a few months old to full-grown adults in semi-wild conditions, and learn about ongoing efforts to protect them.
Puerto Chino Beach
A peaceful white-sand beach with turquoise waters, surrounded by volcanic hills covered in coastal vegetation. After a short walk along the access trail, you’ll reach this hidden paradise, ideal for relaxing, taking photos, or simply soaking in the natural beauty.
It’s common to see blue-footed boobies, sea lions, and sea turtles near the shore, making this stop a perfect mix of nature, ocean, and rest.
Scenic viewpoints along the route
During the journey between sites, the tour makes stops at natural lookouts where you can observe the transition between the coastal and humid highland ecosystems. These points are great for panoramic photos and for appreciating how biodiversity changes with elevation.
- Giant tortoises
- Frigatebirds
- Darwin’s finches
- Galápagos hawks
- Sea lions
- Migratory and highland birds
Half-day tour – 4 to 5 hours (morning or afternoon options)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Eco-friendly sunscreen and insect repellent
- Hat or cap
- Light clothing (plus a rain jacket if visiting during the wet season)
- Reusable water bottle
- Charged phone or camera
- The order of stops may vary depending on the weather.
- El Junco trail can be foggy, which only adds to its magical atmosphere.