San Cristóbal Canton

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This is the most easterly island in the archipelago and one of the oldest in this insular geological formation. It has lovely white coral and shell beaches. In its blue waters a large number of the marvellous species which inhabit the archipelago can be discovered. Among them large colourful birds and sea lions can be spotted.

Another place frequented by tourists is the area where the famous giant tortoises known as Galapagos live. It has impressive sights such as el Junco, a fresh water lake in the crater of a volcano, the Leon Dormido, the Isla Lobos and the Cerro Tijeretas, which lie near Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, the provincial capital, where there is also an Interpretation Centre.

There are animals which are unique to the island, such as a species of mockingbird, and the lava lizard; there are aiso unique plants such as the Calandrina Galapagosa and the Leococarpus Darwinii. You can also do diving. This island, famous for its tides, has an area of 430 sq. km.

The settlers on San Cristóbal Island have developed agriculture. The history of the island is told by its inhabitants with mystery and emotion: "Manuel J.Cobos, a cruel and despotic man, founded a sugar refinery more than a century ago. He took the produce to sell in Guayaquil. In 1904, the workers who were tired of the abuse from their master, revolted and killed him."