Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, situated on the island of San Cristobal, is the capital of the Galápagos province. Like Puerto Ayora, the most vibrant city in the archipelago, it is also a must-see destination during your voyage to these islands. Here you will discover compelling attractions such as the Gianny Arismendi Interpretation Center and Playa Mann. Furthermore, the city serves as a departure point for cruises that lead to the exploration of the archipelago.

Puerto Baquerizo Moreno: The First Village of the Galápagos

Founded in 1832 by General José de Villamil, Puerto Baquerizo Moreno is the oldest settlement in the Galápagos archipelago. The city bears, however, the name of Alfredo Baquerizo (1859–1951), the first Ecuadorian president to have visited it during his presidency.

In 1879, Puerto Baquerizo Moreno welcomed Hacienda Progreso, now known as El Progreso. This farm once housed a large sugar refinery and also produced leather and petroleum products.

In 1993, the residents of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno created the Albatros USA Foundation or Fundación Ecológica Albatros, an NGO that works on educating young people about the importance of preserving and conserving the environment and ecosystems of the island.

In 2010, Puerto Baquerizo Moreno had a population of 6,672 inhabitants. Its economy relies mainly on fishing, followed by tourism.

What to Visit in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno?

The Gianny Arismendi Interpretation Center

The Gianny Arismendi Interpretation Center showcases the history of the Galápagos, as well as its unique ecosystem. You will also discover the conservation measures undertaken to protect this precious environment. Other exhibitions at this venue include the geological formation of the archipelago.

The center was named by the Galápagos National Park in honor of Gianni Arismendi Guerrero, a forest ranger from San Cristóbal who devoted 27 years of his life to environmental education.

The Natural History Museum

The Natural History Museum of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, on Avenida Northia, houses exhibitions on the animals, plants, and minerals of the Galápagos. Among the finest displays in this museum is a giant tortoise (reportedly over 80 years old), an extinct iguana species, and a flightless cormorant species.

Playa Mann

Playa Mann, across from the San Francisco–GAIAS university, is a 10-minute walk from the center of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. This beach, with its gentle slope, is composed of soft white sand, coveted by many tourists. Its clear waters are highly inviting for snorkeling. Seafood food stands have been established near this beach to delight food lovers.

Lobería Beach

Lobería Beach is the best place on San Cristobal island to observe Galápagos sea lions. These animals love to lounge here. However, these are not the only stars of this bay, protected by a ring of rock. Sea turtles, marine iguanas, and pelicans also frequent it. Furthermore, by snorkeling here, you will encounter numerous colorful fish.

Lobería Beach is not only known for its magnificent animal population. Its reputation also comes from the fact that it is an excellent surfing spot. In fact, it hosts a surfing championship every year.

That's not all! This beach is also nestled not far from the El Baranco cliff, where many blue-footed boobies and frigatebirds have made their home.

Punta Carola and Las Tijeretas

Punta Carola, a surf spot favored by beginners, is easily accessible from the interpretation center via a trail. Beyond surfing, it is also suitable for relaxation and snorkeling. Additionally, you can enjoy a magnificent sunset here, graced by the presence of sea lions and blue-footed boobies.

Puerto Chino

On the other side of the island, 45 minutes from the city, lies Puerto Chino. With its white sand, it is also a favorable place for relaxation and contemplation of the Pacific Ocean. Furthermore, several animal species can be observed here.

Lake El Junco

Lake El Junco, occupying a former crater, is perched in the highlands of San Cristobal. It is the only freshwater body in the entire Galápagos archipelago. You can reach it by taxi. A short hike from the parking area is then necessary to reach the site itself.

The shores of this volcanic lake can be muddy, so prepare accordingly. The site is frequented by frigatebirds, which come here to rid the salt from their plumage by immersing themselves.

Opuntia Garden

The Opuntia Garden is an area populated with prickly pear cacti of the Opuntias genus (Opuntia megasperma). It is traversed by a 2 km trail. During your walk, you will have the opportunity to spot cactus finches, which love the fruits of these cacti, as well as other terrestrial bird species such as the San Cristobal mockingbird, the small ground finch, the spotted flycatcher, and the small finches.

Cruise Discovering San Cristobal Island and Other Galápagos Islands

As mentioned above, Puerto Baquerizo Moreno is a departure point for cruises exploring the Galápagos Islands. These excursions offer unparalleled immersion into the unique biodiversity of the archipelago, with varied itineraries including stops at famous islands such as Santa Cruz, Isabela, and Fernandina. Captivating activities such as snorkeling, hiking, and wildlife observation are also on the agenda.

When to Visit Puerto Baquerizo Moreno?

Puerto Baquerizo Moreno is conducive to tourism from June to August and from mid-December to mid-January, when the weather is dry and sunny. However, note that these periods correspond to high tourist seasons. If you plan to encounter fewer tourists during your visit and do not mind a humid climate, instead opt for the period extending from early September to late November.

From Continental Équateur

Puerto Baquerizo is accessible by plane from Quito and Guayaquil. The city is situated just 5 minutes by taxi and 25 minutes on foot from San Cristobal airport terminal.

From Puerto Ayora and Puerto Villamil

If you are already in the Galápagos archipelago, you can access Puerto Baquerizo by plane or boat from Puerto Ayora, on Santa Cruz island, or from Puerto Villamil, on Isabela island.

Best Hotels and Restaurants in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno

To stay in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, you have a wide range of options. Among the most popular hotels are the Galapagos Sunset Hotel, offering stunning ocean views, and La Zayapa Hotel, appreciated for its warm atmosphere. For tighter budgets, Casa de Alexis offers affordable rates without compromising comfort.

As for dining, the culinary scene in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno is diverse. For an unforgettable gastronomic experience, several restaurants stand out:

• Maui Bar & Restaurant: known for its seafood, but also its vegetarian dishes. Its bar offers exotic cocktails.

• Tour: a restaurant that attracts many tourists with its beachfront setting and delicious seafood dishes.

• Bar and Café Nativo: this restaurant offers fresh ceviches, among other dishes. It also appeals with the magnificent view it provides.