SAN CRISTOBAL MOUNTAIN BIKING, 1 Day

From: $ 163USD p/person

Level: Moderate

A premium tour by mountain bike that explores the highlands of San Cristobal Island, which includes el Junco, Galapaguera & El Progreso.

DAY 1: MOUNTAIN BIKING SAN CRISTOBAL HIGHLANDS

We depart in the morning by vehicle to the highlands all the way up to El Junco. El Junco is an extinct volcano crater lagoon located in the highest part of San Cristobal Island. It is frequented by Frigate Birds that use the fresh water to wash salt water from their wings. We walk and explore the lagoon area which is covered by endemic Miconia forest, and other species. We fit our bikes and helmets, and after a safety briefing we begin a scenic downhill ride mostly on dirt roads. We trail approximately 18 Km, trough the agricultural zone very fertile and lush, to el Progreso, a historical place where you will hear interesting stories about the Emperor of Galapagos and his sugar mill enterprise.

During this journey we stop to get fantastic views to the coastline or search or birdlife. We continue cycling until we return to town, before an afternoon visit to the Frigate Hill and Darwin Bay. (L)

INCLUDED: Professional English speaking guide, mountain bikes and helmets, spare mountain bike, land transportation, snack and drinks.

IMPORTANT: This itinerary is subject to change without notice due to seasonal changes, last minute weather conditions and adjustment of Galapagos National Park policy.

IMPORTANT FACTS:
VEHICLE TRAVEL TIME: 1 hour
CYCLING TIME: 1 to 2 hours
SEASON: All year
ALTITUDE: Sea level to 700 m.
SUGGESTED: Layered clothing, rain jacket, water bottle, sun block, hat and mosquito repellent.

SEA KAYAK PLAYA OCHOA AND SNORKEL AT LEON DORMIDO
From: $170 USD p/person

Level: Moderate

With this program you will find a healthy balance between relaxation and
adventure. It’s an intimate way to explore the beautiful San Cristobal
Island and its spectacular environment in a kayak, a totally different but
unimaginable experience, well combined with beachcombing, snorkeling and
hiking.

We slip into our ocean kayaks and spend the morning paddling along the
coast, going north exploring bays and coves full of local wildlife - including Darwin Bay, the site of the first landing of the HMS Beagle. The route is home to colonies of sea lions, marine turtles, blue-footed boobies, and frigate birds. Once we reach Playa Ochoa, we continue on to nearby Isla Lobos on the lookout for marine iguanas and sea lions. This is a fantastic snorkelling site where we are nearly guaranteed to enjoy one of the best sea lion encounters in the entire archipelago. We continue on to Leon Dormido, the jagged remains of an old tuff cone whose flanks are home to thousands of sea birds. At Leon Dormido, we enjoy excellent snorkelling; for certified divers, this is also one of the best dives in the islands (optional). There is a good chance of seeing Galapagos sharks, eagle and golden rays, as well as dozens of species of tropical fish, clams, starfish, and marine invertebrates. With a little lucky, we may also swim with hammerhead and white-tipped sharks. (L)

INCLUDED: Box lunch, kayaking and safety gear, professional English speaking guide, land and sea transportation.

IMPORTANT: This itinerary is subject to change without notice due to seasonal changes, last minute weather conditions and adjustment of Galapagos
National Park policy.

IMPORTANT FACTS:
PADDLE OR ACTIVITY DURATION: 3-6 hours
BEST SEASON: January to June and September to December
ALTITUDE: Sea level to 600 meters
WEATHER TEMPERATURES: December to May: 80ºF to 90ºF / 25ºC to 30ºC.  June to September: 60ºF to 70ºF / 15ºC to 20ºC.  October to December: 70ºF to 80ºF/ 15ºC to 25ºC
WATER TEMPERATURE: The waters of the Galapagos Islands are a unique mixture of warm and cold water, ranging between 65ºF and 85ºF.
SUGGESTED: Water sandals, rain jacket, flashlight, water bottle, non-cotton kayaking gear, sun block, hat and mosquito repellent