Things To Do
in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno
Puerto Baquerizo Moreno is the capital of the Galápagos Province, located on San Cristóbal Island. It serves as a gateway to the archipelago's unique wildlife and offers a relaxed waterfront vibe. The town is known for close encounters with sea lions, frigatebirds, and dramatic lava formations at spots like Cerro Tijeretas and La Lobería.
With conservation at its heart and easy access to boat trips, snorkeling, and day tours, it makes a convenient base for island adventures.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the Galapagos Interpretation Center, where you can learn about the unique ecosystems of the Galapagos Islands. The center features informative exhibits that explain the natural history and conservation efforts in the area. Take a leisurely walk through the nearby trails that lead to scenic viewpoints overlooking the ocean.
After a morning of learning, head to the nearby Playa de Oro for some relaxation and sunbathing. The beach offers soft golden sand and clear blue waters, perfect for a refreshing dip. Enjoy a packed lunch with a view of the waves and watch the local sea lions basking in the sun.
As the sun sets, stroll along the waterfront malecon, where you can soak in the natural beauty of the surroundings. Stop for dinner at a local seafood restaurant, savoring dishes like ceviche and grilled fish. End your day by enjoying a peaceful evening with the sound of the ocean waves lapping at the shore.
Begin your day with an early breakfast before boarding a boat to Kicker Rock, one of the most famous snorkeling spots in the Galapagos. As you approach this iconic rock formation, marvel at the towering cliffs and the diverse marine life beneath the surface. Equip yourself with snorkeling gear and dive into the crystal-clear waters.
Spend the afternoon exploring the underwater world teeming with colorful fish, sea turtles, and perhaps even a playful sea lion or two. After snorkeling, enjoy a packed lunch on board while soaking in the sun and the stunning views of the surrounding islands. The boat ride back offers a perfect opportunity for dolphin watching as they often play in the waves.
Return to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno and freshen up before dinner. Choose a cozy eatery where you can enjoy traditional Ecuadorian cuisine, such as locro de papa or llapingachos. Wind down your evening by taking a leisurely walk along the beach, taking in the starry sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| 🥗Lunch or casual dinner for two | $25-50 |
| 🍺Beer or soft drink | $2-5 |
| 🏨One-night hotel accommodation (mid-range) | $60-150 |
| 🚕Taxi within town | $2-7 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close encounters with wildlife in a compact town
- Excellent snorkeling and boat-accessible beaches
- Conservation-focused tourism and guides
- Limited nightlife and nightlife facilities
- High season crowds in peak months
- Some services are cash-only in remote areas
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está?" - Where is it?
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Agua" - Water
- "Delicioso" - Delicious
- "Ayuda" - Help
Places to Visit in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno
Visit one of these nice places.
Frigatebird-filled cliffside trail with sweeping ocean views; early morning light is ideal for dramatic silhouettes.
Rocky shoreline and sea lions with volcanic formations; excellent sunset and portrait opportunities.
Colorful boats, pastel houses, and sea spray along the waterfront; great for street photography and candid portraits.
White-sand shore with turquoise water and nearby lava formations; ideal for action shots of snorkeling and silhouettes.
Spectacular sea stacks visible from several coastal vantage points; best captured from a boat or shore angle during calm seas.
Food in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno
Puerto Baquerizo Moreno Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh snapper cured in lime juice with onions, peppers, and cilantro; best enjoyed at seaside eateries.
Must-Try!
Bright fish soup made with stock, tomatoes, garlic, and herbs; served with crusty bread.
Hearty tuna fish soup with yucca and onions; a popular energizer after a morning boat ride.
Grilled whole fish with sides of plantains or rice; a simple, local favorite.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant daily market where locals buy produce, fish, and prepared snacks; great for fresh ceviche and empanadas.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Keep a respectful distance from animals; do not touch or feed wildlife; stay on marked trails and follow guide instructions.
Avoid leaving trash, minimize plastic usage, and photograph with care to avoid disturbing habitats.
Safety
Tipping in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, 5-10% is customary if service is not already included; guide and boat crew can be tipped per day or per trip.
Cash is widely used in remote areas; many shops in town take credit cards, but some boats and transfers are cash-only. Local currency is USD; ATMs are available in the city.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
December through May brings warmer air and water, with afternoon showers possible. Expect lush scenery, excellent snorkeling, and higher chances of wildlife encounters along coastlines.
June through November is cooler and drier with stronger Humboldt currents. Water is cooler but wildlife viewing can be superb; seas may be rougher, so plan boat trips with a captain you trust.
Puerto Baquerizo Moreno at Night
Hiking in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal hike with seabird viewing and ocean vistas.
A rugged coastal hike offering spectacular viewpoints and opportunities to see red-footed boobies.
Exposed lava landscapes with tortoise enclosures and wildlife.
Coastal walk with sea lions and sea views; best at sunrise or sunset.
Airports
How to reach Puerto Baquerizo Moreno by plane.
Located near Puerto Baquerizo Moreno; the island's air hub with flights to the mainland and other Galápagos islands; expect weather-related delays at times.
Main gateway for Galápagos visitors; located on Baltra Island near Santa Cruz; transfers by bus and ferry to Santa Cruz are part of the travel sequence from/to the mainland.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primarily Ecuadorian; Mestizo heritage with a strong coastal culture.
A mix of Galápagos National Park staff, conservation workers, and scientists.
Small community of guides, shop owners, and some expatriates supporting tourism.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular around Punta Carola, La Lobería, and other shorelines.
Paddling and scuba opportunities to see sharks, rays, and colorful reef life.
Coastal kayaking along lava formations and sheltered coves.
Frigatebirds, pelicans, boobies, and finches along coastal trails.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Puerto Baquerizo Moreno.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarians can enjoy fresh fruits, salads, veggie sides, and dairy or plant-based options; request dishes that feature beans, rice, and vegetables; seafood can be avoided if you prefer.