We hiked up to Cerro Tijeretas, also known as Frigate Bird Hill, during our time on Isla San Cristobal. It was one of the best free activities we did in the Galapagos, especially since we could explore independently. If you’re planning to visit the Galapagos, I’d definitely recommend adding this to your itinerary.
The name Cerro Tijeretas comes from the frigate birds that inhabit this area. It’s one of the few places where you can spot both species of frigate birds nesting in the same colony. The hike itself is quite close to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, and along the way, we found several viewpoints that offered stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Plus, there’s an inlet perfect for snorkeling to cool off after the hike.
How to Get to Cerro Tijeretas
We decided to hike up to Cerro Tijeretas on foot since it’s only a short distance from Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. The journey starts right at the Charles Darwin Interpretation Center, which is located on the outskirts of town. We simply followed the shoreline north, passing through Playa Mann. Just after the beach, there’s a path to the right that leads straight to the Interpretation Center.
Even though it’s a quick and easy walk, if you’re short on time or just want to save your energy for the hike, you can always grab a taxi to the center. It’s super affordable, costing only a dollar or two.
What to See in Cerro Tijeretas
Charles Darwin Interpretation Center
Before starting the hike up to Cerro Tijeretas, we took our time exploring the Interpretation Center. It’s definitely worth a stop. Unlike the Charles Darwin Research Station in Santa Cruz, which mainly focuses on the conservation of giant tortoises, this center dives deep into the human history of the Galapagos Islands.
We were genuinely surprised by how much we learned. Before visiting, I always imagined the Galapagos as wild, uninhabited islands filled with unique wildlife and little else. But it turns out there’s a rich, complex human story here that I never expected. It added a whole new layer of appreciation for the islands beyond just the incredible animals.
Cerro Tijeretas Trail
The hike to Cerro Tijeretas is well-pathed but be prepared—it takes you through a rugged landscape of lava rocks and towering cacti. We quickly realized there’s practically no shade along the way, so if you’re planning to do this hike, make sure to bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water. Trust me, you’ll be glad you did!
As we made our way up, we found a few shaded spots among the trees where we could catch glimpses of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno and the shimmering sea below. These little lookout points were perfect for taking a break, catching our breath, and snapping a few photos to remember the journey.
Along the trail, we came across several forks in the path. If you take the left route, it will lead you to Playa Carola. We highly recommend checking it out, though we suggest saving that detour for after you’ve tackled the challenging hike to Frigate Bird Hill.
The final left split in the trail will take you to Darwin’s Cove—a spot we had on our list for later. But since our goal was to reach Cerro Tijeretas first, we kept to the right and continued on our way. The anticipation of reaching the summit kept us going, even as the heat started to take its toll!
The Scenery at Cerro Tijeretas
Even if you’re not particularly interested in frigate birds, the views alone make this hike worth every step. From the top of Cerro Tijeretas, we were greeted with a breathtaking panorama—Darwin’s Cove below, with its deep turquoise waters, teeming with sea turtles and sea lions lazily drifting around. Looking further out, the endless blue ocean stretched before us, occasionally interrupted by a distant cruise ship or cargo vessel.
We were lucky to spot the famous frigate birds up close; their size was truly impressive. The trees just below the viewpoint were bustling with activity, especially during the right season when you can even catch a glimpse of fluffy baby frigate birds. And it’s not just the frigates that enjoy this spot; we were surprised to see a few blue-footed boobies perched on the rocky ledges too.
Going Further?
If you have some time left in your day, I definitely recommend extending the hike beyond the viewpoint. From there, it transitions into a dirt trail, a bit rough with pebbles and overgrown patches, so good hiking shoes are a must. After a 45-minute trek, you’ll reach Playa Baquerizo. When we arrived, it was so peaceful—it felt like our own private beach. Apart from the occasional marine iguana and a few turtles, there was no one else around.
Once you head back down from Cerro Tijeretas, take the trail leading to Darwin’s Cove. It’s a popular free snorkeling spot where you can swim with sea lions, turtles, and even marine iguanas. Just remember to scan the water before jumping in—it’s their playground too!
Instead of retracing your steps, we suggest taking a sharp right turn after leaving Darwin’s Cove. This trail leads you across a headland to Punta Carola. There’s even a statue of Darwin to snap a quick photo with, along with an old World War II cannon that adds a touch of history to the scenery. As you continue, you’ll eventually reach a beautiful crescent-shaped beach surrounded by rugged rock formations, perfect for ending the day.
Bottom Line
Cerro Tijeretas is a fantastic spot to explore on a free day. The hike along the trail leading up to the viewpoint really lets you connect with nature. Whether you’re a bird enthusiast or just someone who appreciates beautiful landscapes, this walk is rewarding. The panoramic views from Cerro Tijeretas are absolutely stunning. If you’re searching for free activities during your Galapagos adventure, be sure to include this place on your bucket list—it’s definitely worth it!
