San Cristobal Island

If you want to mention the most beautiful islands in Ecuador, especially in Galapagos, you can definitely not miss San Cristobal Island. San Cristobal is a Galapagos treasure. San Cristobal is the quietest of the three main islands, which results in a lovely, relaxing, and tranquil atmosphere befitting of an island in the midst of the Pacific Ocean. In terms of geology, the island is also one of the oldest of the Galapagos Islands. Its name is derived from St. Christopher, the patron saint of seamen. The island is also known as Chatham Island, after William Pitt, 1st Earl of Chatham.

For those who enjoy animals, there are a plethora of incredible experiences to be had here on San Cristobal. You'll be spoiled for choice whether you want to hang out with sea lions, study marine iguanas, or go snorkeling diving at Kicker Rock to see the complex remnants of a volcanic cone, stroll the paths to the appropriately called Frigatebird Hill, or frolic (slowly) with the legendary giant tortoises in the Galapaguera de Cerro Colorado nature refuge. There are also blue-footed boobies, red-footed boobies, Nazca boobies, and swallow-tailed gulls can be seen. Less typically observed birds, such as yellow warblers and a variety of finches, can be spotted at several locations surrounding San Cristobal. Visitors may also witness white-cheeked pintail ducks, common gallinules, and the Chatham mockingbird.