Puerto Baquerizo Moreno is a charming coastal town on the island of San Cristobal, and during our time there, it quickly became one of our favorite spots in the Galapagos. As the provincial capital of the Galapagos Province, it’s often seen as just a starting point, but we found it offered so much more.
When we first arrived, we were greeted by the laid-back atmosphere and the stunning views of the harbor. Me and my wife strolled along the malecón, taking in the sight of sea lions lounging on the rocks—a moment that made us feel like we had stepped into a nature documentary. For us, Puerto Baquerizo Moreno wasn’t just a gateway but a destination rich with its own unique charm.
We’ll share why this town is a must-visit for anyone exploring the Galapagos, and highlight the special moments we experienced that made it unforgettable.
We also covered some of the places in my video:
Attractions and Activities in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno
Once in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, visitors have a wealth of exciting destinations and activities to explore:
La Loberia
One of the highlights of our time in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno was visiting a beautiful beach known for its thriving sea lion colonies. I remember how surreal it felt wading into the clear waters, watching these playful creatures dart around us. My wife decided to grab her snorkel gear and join them, and it turned into a magical experience, with curious sea lions swimming gracefully by and playfully mimicking her movements. Meanwhile, I took a moment to simply sit on the shore and take it all in—the picturesque surroundings, the gentle sound of the waves, and the joyful scene unfolding in front of me. This beach became a special memory for both of us, and it’s a place we’ll never forget.
La Loberia quickly became one of our favorite places to unwind. The beach’s natural beauty, with its golden sands stretching along the coast and tall cliffs framing the backdrop, offered a sense of solitude that was hard to find elsewhere. One afternoon, my wife decided to lie back and soak up the sun while I wandered down the shoreline, the calming sound of the waves accompanying my thoughts. There was something therapeutic about being in that moment, surrounded by nothing but the raw beauty of nature. The gentle breeze and the distant calls of the seabirds made La Loberia the perfect spot for us to slow down, relax, and fully appreciate the tranquility of this hidden gem.
El Junco
El Junco was a destination we couldn’t miss, even though we had been warned about the unpredictable weather in the highlands of San Cristobal. The hike to the crater rim was surrounded by lush greenery, and we found ourselves stopping often, not just to catch our breath, but to appreciate the changing landscape around us. By the time we reached the top, the views were indeed stunning, despite the mist rolling in.
It’s known as a birdwatcher’s paradise for a reason. We managed to spot a few frigatebirds soaring gracefully, and a couple of blue-footed boobies perched nearby, adding a touch of excitement to the overcast day. Although the weather didn’t fully cooperate, leaving us with less visibility of the lake itself, the experience of standing on the edge of a volcanic crater, surrounded by such rich biodiversity, was something we wouldn’t trade. Even in the fog and drizzle, El Junco revealed a glimpse of the Galapagos’ untamed beauty and the extraordinary wildlife that calls it home.
Kicker Rock (Leon Dormido)
A popular spot for diving and snorkeling, Kicker Rock is a volcanic formation rising from the ocean.
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Kicker Rock is truly an iconic natural wonder and a must-visit for anyone seeking an exhilarating underwater adventure. The towering formation is home to a variety of marine species, including graceful rays, curious sea turtles, and even the occasional sight of sharks cruising through the depths. The underwater world here felt alive, and for us, it was the kind of experience that leaves you feeling both humbled and amazed by nature’s wonders.
If you’re planning a visit, I highly recommend including Kicker Rock as part of the popular 360º tour on San Cristobal. This full-circle tour gives you a taste of the island’s diverse coastline and is perfect for those wanting to experience everything from pristine beaches to thrilling underwater spots like this one. For me and my wife, the 360º tour was not just a highlight of our trip but a way to fully appreciate the wild beauty of San Cristobal, with Kicker Rock as the ultimate adventure along the way.
Cerro Tijeretas
Cerro Tijeretas turned out to be one of the most accessible yet rewarding spots during our stay in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. Just a short walk from town, this area is named after the frigatebirds, or Tijeretas as the locals call them, which you can spot gliding gracefully above.
The hike up to Cerro Tijeretas was more than just a pleasant walk; it offered stunning views and a sense of connection to the island’s natural history. We took our time climbing the well-marked trails, with occasional stops to take in the scenery and watch the frigatebirds hovering effortlessly in the sky. At the top, the viewpoint overlooking Darwin Bay was breathtaking—a panoramic view that made us pause to soak in the beauty of the surroundings.
One of the special moments for me was stumbling upon the statue of Charles Darwin, placed here as a tribute to his iconic visit to the Galapagos. Standing by the statue, with the bay stretching out in front of us, gave us a sense of being part of this incredible natural history, even if just for a brief moment. It’s a site that not only offers fantastic hiking but also connects you to the legacy of exploration and discovery that makes the Galapagos so extraordinary.
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Places to Eat in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno
There is no problem looking for superb restaurants and cafes in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, as the island is home to plenty of them. Some noteworthy places to eat in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno include the following:
El Descanso Marinero
I went for the succulent grilled fish, perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection. Each bite melted in my mouth, and the local spices added a unique kick that I’ll never forget. My wife couldn’t resist the calamari, which was tender and crisp, and we both shared a generous portion of their mouthwatering ceviche. The freshness of the seafood, paired with the tangy lime and cilantro, was an explosion of flavor that left us wanting more.
It’s the kind of place where every dish feels like a love letter to the sea, and it quickly became one of our favorite dining experiences on the island.
Midori Sushi Pub
Midori Sushi Pub is a must-visit in the Galapagos, known for its exceptional sushi and dishes that showcase the fresh bounty of the local waters. The cozy atmosphere and warm decor make it an ideal spot for a relaxed dinner or gathering with friends. We were impressed by the freshness of the seafood, especially the Galapagos Tuna Nigiri and the shrimp tempura rolls, which combined delicate flavors with the perfect texture. It’s a place where great food and island vibes create an unforgettable dining experience.
Muyu Galapagos
Muyu is an upscale dining gem in the Galapagos that attracts visitors with its fantastic food, impeccable service, and ambiance that captures the island’s essence. The dishes are meticulously prepared, blending international flavors with local ingredients, creating a delightful fusion. Their creative and expertly crafted cocktails elevate the experience even further. While Muyu is on the pricier side, it’s worth every penny for those seeking a memorable and refined dining experience.
How to Get to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno
Travelers can reach Puerto Baquerizo Moreno in several ways:
By Flight
To reach San Cristobal, we took a direct flight from Guayaquil to San Cristobal Airport (SCY). It’s the quickest and most convenient way to get to the island, and as soon as we landed, we were greeted by the warm coastal air and the laid-back vibe of the Galapagos. After collecting our bags, we found taxis waiting just outside the terminal, making the short drive to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno easy and hassle-free.
The ride itself gave us our first glimpse of island life. I remember looking out the window and feeling a mix of excitement and curiosity as we passed by the quiet streets and local shops. It was a simple journey, but it marked the beginning of an adventure that we had been eagerly anticipating for months. The short drive from the airport to town was the perfect transition from the hustle of travel to the tranquility of island life.
By Ferry
If you’re starting your journey from Santa Cruz Island, ferries run regularly from Puerto Ayora to San Cristobal. My wife and I opted for this route during our visit, and the ride took about two hours. If you’re prone to motion sickness like I am, it’s a good idea to come prepared with some motion sickness remedies. The waves can be a bit rough, but the experience turned out to be more than just a ride between islands.
One of the highlights of the ferry trip was the unexpected chance to spot marine life. At one point, as we sailed through the clear blue waters, we caught sight of a group of dolphins playing nearby, jumping in and out of the waves. It was a magical moment that made the journey feel like part of the adventure, rather than just a means of getting from one place to another. Even though the ride can be a bit bumpy, those little surprises along the way made it worthwhile for us.
Conclusion
Puerto Baquerizo Moreno on San Cristobal Island captivated us with its blend of natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and vibrant culinary scene. The town warmly invites visitors to dive into adventures unlike any other.
During our stay, we explored the pristine beaches of La Loberia, where we had a blast swimming alongside playful sea lions. The journey to El Junco’s crater rewarded us with breathtaking views and the joy of watching graceful frigatebirds soaring over the lake. Kicker Rock, with its underwater marvels, gave us some of our most memorable moments, snorkeling among rays, turtles, and curious marine life. And the panoramic vistas at Cerro Tijeretas, where we admired the elegant flight of the frigatebirds, were unforgettable.
If you’re seeking adventure and relaxation in a unique paradise, the Galapagos delivers both. Be sure to include these destinations in your itinerary, and you’ll likely fall in love with this extraordinary place, just as we did.
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