El Junco Crater Lake
Galapagos' only freshwater lake, nestled in an extinct volcanic crater, offering unique birdlife and misty highland vistas.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clearer skies, less mud
El Junco Crater Lake
Best Time
Clearer skies, less mud

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Galapagos' only freshwater lake, nestled in an extinct volcanic crater, offering unique birdlife and misty highland vistas.
"Stunning views from the top if you are lucky enough to get clear weather, but the cloud can roll away as fast as it arrived."
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can get very muddy, especially after rain. Waterproof hiking boots are recommended!
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
There are no facilities at the lake. Bring plenty of water and snacks for your visit.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Freshwater Crater Lake
San Cristobal Island Highlands
Galapagos' only freshwater lake, a stunning caldera filled with rain, offering unique birdwatching opportunities.

Abundant Birdlife
Around the lake
Spot endemic species and frigatebirds bathing in the cool, misty waters of this highland oasis.

Panoramic Highland Views
Overlook points
Enjoy sweeping vistas of the island and potentially the coast, weather permitting. The mist adds a dramatic, ethereal quality.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for El Junco
Getting to this Highland Gem
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can get very muddy, especially after rain. Waterproof hiking boots are recommended!
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
There are no facilities at the lake. Bring plenty of water and snacks for your visit.
🚗 Negotiate Taxi Fare
Taxis are the main transport. Agree on a round-trip price, including waiting time, to avoid surprises.
☁️ Be Patient with Weather
Mist is common. If it's cloudy, wait a bit; views can change rapidly.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can get very muddy, especially after rain. Waterproof hiking boots are recommended!
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
There are no facilities at the lake. Bring plenty of water and snacks for your visit.
🚗 Negotiate Taxi Fare
Taxis are the main transport. Agree on a round-trip price, including waiting time, to avoid surprises.
☁️ Be Patient with Weather
Mist is common. If it's cloudy, wait a bit; views can change rapidly.
📸 Capture the Mist
The ethereal mist adds a magical quality to photos, even if visibility is reduced.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find El Junco Crater Lake a unique highland attraction, the Galapagos' only freshwater lake, offering beautiful views and birdwatching opportunities. However, the experience can be heavily influenced by weather, with mist often obscuring the scenery. Getting there can be costly due to taxi requirements, and the trails can be very muddy.
"Cool to see the area and hike around the lagoon. It was very cloudy when we went, so did not see a lot of birds."
Tyler Schube
"This is a massive highland lake. The walk from the parking lot up is a few hundred feet. You'll get sweaty quickly thanks to the humidity. There are no restrooms at the bottom or on top. From the top you can see multiple coasts and even a caldera! You'll likely see tons of birds. There is a trail circling the top but if it rained recently it will be pure mud."
Michael Barton
"El Junco is a nice spot for a visit, with stunning views from the top of you are lucky enough to get clear weather but that’s not guaranteed and if the cloud rolls in you can’t see much at all. That said this is the Galápagos, and the cloud can roll away as fast as it arrived so wait 10 minutes and it might be fine.
The lake is pretty small by the standard of most lakes and its interest lies in it being the caldera of a volcano.
The real problem is that it is difficult to get to. You need to get a taxi to the base and have them wait for you and that gets a bit pricey for what you actually get to see. In a large group to split the cost or as part of a tour to the interior it’s maybe worth a visit but probably not worth the cost of the taxi to get there on your own."
Daisy Chain
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
El Junco Crater Lake is located in the highlands of San Cristobal Island. The most common way to get there is by taxi. It's recommended to negotiate a round-trip fare with your driver, including their waiting time, as public transport options are limited. Some tours to the island's interior may also include a stop here.
While accessible by taxi, reaching El Junco can be a bit pricey if you go independently. The drive itself is part of the experience, showcasing the island's diverse landscapes.
Public bus services to El Junco are not readily available. Taxis or organized tours are the most practical options for reaching this highland attraction.
The drive takes you through lush vegetation and volcanic landscapes, offering a glimpse into the island's interior. The road can be winding and sometimes unpaved.
Yes, many visitors combine a trip to El Junco with other interior attractions on San Cristobal, such as Puerto Chino beach or the Galapaguera de Cerro Colorado (tortoise breeding center).
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is typically a small entrance fee to access the area around El Junco Crater Lake. This fee helps with the upkeep of the site.
El Junco is generally accessible during daylight hours. It's best to visit during the day to appreciate the views and wildlife.
No, advance booking is not usually required for El Junco. You can typically pay the entrance fee upon arrival.
Unfortunately, there are no restrooms available at El Junco Crater Lake, either at the parking area or at the top. Plan accordingly.
Yes, a visit to El Junco can be relatively short, especially if you focus on the main viewpoints. However, allow time for the drive and potential weather changes.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main activities include enjoying the panoramic views from the crater rim, observing diverse birdlife, and taking short walks around the lake. The unique freshwater environment is a highlight.
You can spot various bird species, including frigatebirds, finches, and other endemic birds that frequent the freshwater lake.
Yes, there is a trail that circles the top of the crater. However, it can become very muddy after recent rain, so sturdy, waterproof footwear is essential.
The main viewpoints are accessible from the parking area, offering expansive views of the lake and surrounding highlands. The mist can create a dramatic, atmospheric scene.
Wear comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots, as the terrain can be uneven and muddy. Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended due to the humidity. A light jacket or rain poncho might be useful for the mist.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the unique freshwater lake within its volcanic crater, the diverse birdlife, and the dramatic misty landscapes. The interplay of light and mist can create stunning, atmospheric shots.
Absolutely. The volcanic caldera setting and the expansive views (when clear) make it a great spot for landscape photography. The mist adds a unique, moody element.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the landscape. If you're interested in wildlife, a telephoto lens will be useful for bird photography. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections on the water.
Mornings often offer softer light and potentially clearer skies, though the mist can be beautiful at any time. Experiment with different times to see how the light changes the mood.
The frequent mist and clouds can be challenging but also create dramatic and ethereal photographic opportunities. Patience is key, as conditions can change quickly.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider combining the visit with a stop at Puerto Chino beach for swimming and relaxation, making it a more complete day trip for the family. The drive itself, showcasing the island's diverse landscapes, can also be an engaging part of the adventure.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the geological significance of the crater lake and the distinct flora that thrives in this humid environment. The ever-present mist adds a mystical quality to the landscape, making it a photographer's delight. Be prepared for variable weather conditions and enjoy the tranquility of this elevated natural wonder.
📸 Photographers
Experiment with different times of day to see how the light interacts with the mist. A wide-angle lens is ideal for the expansive landscapes, while a telephoto lens will be useful for capturing the details of the birdlife. Be prepared for potentially wet conditions and protect your gear accordingly.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology of El Junco
The volcanic origin of El Junco is evident in its surrounding landscape, characterized by lush vegetation that thrives in the humid highland environment. This contrast between the arid coastal zones and the verdant highlands is a key feature of San Cristobal. The lake's existence is crucial for the local flora and fauna, providing a vital water source in an otherwise often dry region.
Wildlife Encounters at El Junco
While the primary draw is avian life, the unique environment supports a variety of plant life as well. The humid conditions foster endemic plants that are found only in this specific highland region. Keep an eye out for these unique botanical specimens as you explore the area. The presence of these endemic species underscores the ecological importance of El Junco.
Navigating the Highlands: Transport and Trails
Once at the lake, a short walk from the parking area leads to the viewpoints. For those who wish to explore further, a trail circles the crater rim. However, this path can become extremely muddy, especially after rainfall, making waterproof hiking boots a necessity. Visitors are advised to be prepared for these conditions and to check the weather forecast, as the mist can significantly impact visibility and the overall experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit