Kicker Rock, Puerto Baquerizo Moreno Travel Guide

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Discover Kicker Rock: Snorkel and dive in a Galapagos marine paradise teeming with sharks, sea turtles, and vibrant sea life near San Cristobal Island.

Kicker Rock, also known as León Dormido (Sleeping Lion), is a captivating rock formation off the coast of San Cristobal Island in the Galapagos. Rising dramatically from the ocean, this iconic landmark is a haven for diverse marine life and seabirds, offering exceptional snorkeling and diving experiences.

A brief summary to Kicker Rock

6FCJ+X8X, San Cristobal, EC

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Kicker Rock.

The best time to visit Kicker Rock for warm water and clear visibility is between December and May.
If you're interested in seeing a greater variety of marine species, visit during the cooler months of June to November, but be prepared for stronger currents and potentially reduced visibility.
Kicker Rock is best suited for confident swimmers due to strong currents, especially during the cool and dry season.
Bring an underwater camera to capture the incredible marine life, including sea turtles, sharks, and rays.
Consider taking seasickness medication before your boat tour, as the navigation can be a little shaky.

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Explore Kicker Rock on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Kicker Rock, mapped for you.

Getting There

Boat

Kicker Rock is accessible only by boat from Puerto Baquerizo Moreno on San Cristobal Island. Day tours typically last around 6 hours, including a 1.5-hour navigation each way. These tours often include snorkeling at Kicker Rock and a visit to a nearby beach such as Manglecito, Cerro Brujo, or Puerto Grande. The Kicker Rock tour can range from $140 to $257 depending on the type of boat and tour inclusions. Some tours combine Kicker Rock with a 360° tour around San Cristobal Island, which can cost around $180.

Discover more about Kicker Rock

Kicker Rock, or León Dormido as it's known locally, is an iconic geological formation and a premier snorkeling and diving destination in the Galapagos Islands. Located a short boat ride from Puerto Baquerizo Moreno on San Cristobal Island, this natural wonder is the eroded remains of a volcanic tuff cone, standing approximately 153 meters (500 feet) tall.Over time, the relentless forces of wind and water have sculpted the rock into a unique shape, resembling either a boot or a sleeping lion, hence its dual names. The formation is split by a narrow channel, creating a stunning natural passage for boats and a vibrant underwater ecosystem.Kicker Rock's allure extends beyond its striking appearance. The surrounding waters teem with marine life, attracting snorkelers and divers from around the globe. Snorkelers can expect to encounter sea turtles, rays, and various tropical fish. Lucky visitors may even spot hammerhead sharks and the endemic Galapagos sharks. Divers can explore the deeper waters, with depths ranging from 30 to 130 feet, increasing the chances of encountering hammerhead sharks and other pelagic species.Above the surface, Kicker Rock is a sanctuary for seabirds. Blue-footed boobies, masked boobies, frigatebirds, and red-billed tropicbirds nest on the cliffs, adding to the area's rich biodiversity. The Galapagos National Park carefully manages access to Kicker Rock to protect its fragile ecosystem, ensuring that visitors can appreciate its beauty for years to come.