A trip to the Galapagos Islands is a dream come true for many people. This archipelago is made up of thirteen islands, which were all created by volcanic action. Each of the islands has its own individuality, and one of the most interesting islands is San Cristobal Island Galapagos. Those wishing to visit the island, named for Saint Christopher, can travel quickly by plane from Quito, Ecuador, or slowly by cruise ship from various ports around the world.
This island is the fifth largest of the thirteen, and is the capital of the Galapagos Islands. It is the most eastern island of this chain of islands, as well as one of the oldest. A volcano that emerged nearly 2.4 million years ago, with its last eruption nearly 650,000 years ago forms the southwestern portion of the island. The northeastern section of the island was created from a more recent volcano whose last eruption was only a few centuries ago.
Due to its subtropical climate, San Cristobal is a perfect destination any time of the year. The colder, dryer season runs from June to December, with August being the coolest month. The warmer, wetter season runs from December to June, with the hottest and wettest months being March and April.
Click for larger Map of Galapagos Islands
Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, the provincial capital of the Galapagos, was a penal colony more than one hundred years ago. Now, it is a relaxing tourist site overlooking the harbor, beckoning the traveler to its beaches and hotels.
As Charles Darwin discovered, this island is home to many unique species of animals and plants. These include animals such as the famous Galapagos Giant Tortoises. Those interested in viewing the various birds of the area will find frigate birds as well as an endemic species, the Chatham Mockingbird, among those living there.
The island of San Cristobal is the home of the largest fresh water lake in the archipelago. It exists in a volcano crater in the highlands of the island, surrounded by various endemic ferns and trees. This attracts several types of birds to the area, making bird watching an enjoyable activity for anyone visiting this site.
One additional area the visitor should explore is the waters around the island, especially during the times when the warm ocean currents run close to the island. This is an excellent time for snorkeling, where one can view tropical fish, swim with the penguins and dolphins and watch the playful sea lions and rays.
San Cristobal Island Galapagos, as one of the Galapagos Islands, is expected to have its share of unique plants and animals, and this island does not disappoint the visitor. However, in addition to being the home to flora and fauna found nowhere else, the island caters to its tourists, with its hotels, restaurants, beaches and other visitor sites, making a visit to this island an adventure found nowhere else in the world.
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[...] Islands only airport was on this island. However, an additional airport has now been built on San Cristobal Island. In spite of this, the majority of tourist flights continue to land at the Baltra airport. Because [...]