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Chatam Highlands Tour – San Cristóbal with GALAISLAND

Explore San Cristóbal’s highlands on a land-based route to El Junco Lagoon, the Cerro Colorado Tortoise Breeding Center, and Puerto Chino Beach. This 4‑hour experience blends volcanic scenery, endemic wildlife, and a relaxing white‑sand beach—guided by our certified bilingual naturalists.
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What’s Included in the Chatam Tour

– Certified bilingual naturalist guide
– Land transportation (round trip)
– Snorkeling gear (mask and snorkel) for optional swim at Puerto Chino
– Photos and videos included
– Snacks during the tour

Price per person: USD 110

Chatam Highlands Tour Itinerary (4 hours)

8:30 a.m. – Welcome & Preparation at GALAISLAND Office

Meet your naturalist guide in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. Briefing and gear check (mask & snorkel).

8:45 a.m. – Land Transfer to El Junco Lagoon

Scenic drive to the highlands with panoramic views of San Cristóbal’s volcanic landscape.

9:05 a.m. – El Junco Lagoon Hike (~35–40 min)

Walk to the crater rim of the only permanent freshwater lagoon in Galápagos (≈650 m a.s.l.). Opportunities to spot frigatebirds, petrels and finches.

9:50 a.m. – Cerro Colorado Tortoise Breeding Center (~40 min)

Educational visit to the conservation center for the giant tortoise Geochelone chatamensis. Interpretive walk through native vegetation and tortoise habitats.

10:50 a.m. – Puerto Chino Beach (~45 min)

Relax on a white‑sand beach with turquoise waters. Optional snorkeling from shore to observe sea turtles, rays and playful sea lions.

12:30 p.m. – Return to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno (End of Tour)

Arrival time may vary slightly depending on road and weather conditions.

Wildlife You May See

On Land

– Giant tortoises, marine iguanas, sea lions, lava lizards
– Endemic birds: blue-footed boobies (coast), finches, pelicans, frigatebirds

In the Water (Puerto Chino)

– Sea turtles, rays, tropical fish
– Sea lions (often along the coast)

Important Conditions

All times are approximate and may change due to weather, road conditions, or National Park guidelines. The itinerary order may be adjusted by the guide (e.g., beach first, lagoon last). Strict hygiene and safety protocols are followed: vehicles and gear are disinfected between uses; hand sanitizer is available.

Alternative Schedule (Afternoon Option)

If you prefer a later departure, this tour can also run from 2:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., following the same route (El Junco Lagoon → Cerro Colorado → Puerto Chino) in the highlands.

Private Tour Option

This tour can also be arranged as a private experience with alternative departure times, subject to availability and Galápagos National Park regulations.

How to Book Your Chatam Tour

– Contact us via WhatsApp to check availability
– Once your date is confirmed, you can make payment securely through our website
– Booking in advance is recommended, especially during high season

Chatam Highlands Tour – San Cristóbal
with GALAISLAND

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