San Cristóbal Ocean Swim & Trail Challenge (4D/3N) III – Edition

San Cristóbal Island Cross-Trail Challenge: Volcanic Trails & Wildlife (42K | 21K | 10K | 5K) is an elite multisport expedition combining open-water swimming across volcanic bays with technical trail running through contrasting ecological zones.

Designed for triathletes, trail runners, and endurance enthusiasts, this program delivers a seamless blend of high-level athletic support, competitive conditioning, and authentic Galapagos conservation immersion.

Need Expert Local Guidance?

Have questions about the route, gear, or event logistics? Connect directly with a native Galapagos athlete and local specialist. Click below to chat on WhatsApp (+593 98 618 6253) or send us an email.

Program Overview

• Duration: 4 Days / 3 Nights

• Activity Level: Advanced / High Physical Demands

• Disciplines: Open-Water Swimming, Trail Running, Active Recovery Snorkeling

• Group Dynamics: Small Group (Max 8-12 participants) or Private Expeditions

• Starting Rate: From $$1,280 USD per person (Standard / Shared Logistics) –★ Hotel Accommodations + Group trail/swim sessions + Shared day tour to Kicker Rock (León Dormido) + Group hydration kit.

• Premium VIP / Private Support| $$1,850 USD (Private VIP Logistics)4★ Boutique Hotel + Dedicated private support vehicle (pickup/van) + Personalized multisport guide + Private transfers + Premium nutrition kit.

 Seasonal Calendar:March 18 – 21, 2027 (4 Days / 3 Nights)

• • Ocean & Marine Edition (March / April): Calm waters, peak underwater visibility, and high marine life activity. Perfect for open-water swimmers and aquathlon athletes.

 Seasonal Calendar: October 21 – 24, 2027 (4 Days / 3 Nights)

• • Highlands & Trail Edition: October / November (Cooler temperatures, ideal trail running conditions, and lush volcanic landscapes)

  • San Cristóbal Island Cross-Trail Challenge: Volcanic Trails & Wildlife (42K | 21K | 10K | 5K)

Detailed Expedition Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival, Technical Orientation & Open-Water Adaptation

• Morning Transfer: Direct private reception upon arrival at San Cristóbal Airport (SCY) and check-in at selected accommodations.

• Orientation Session: Briefing covering route maps, marine currents, terrain elevation profiles, and distribution of individual hydration and nutrition kits.

• Afternoon Training (1.5 km – 2 km Swim): Guided open-water session along the Playa Mann – Carola Bay coastal stretch. Focus on acclimatization to ocean salinity, buoyancy assessment, and navigation techniques alongside local marine life.

• Sunset Protocol: Active recovery walk to the Galapagos National Park Interpretation Center to learn about the biogeography of the island.

• Evening: Curated sports-nutrition welcome dinner with targeted carbohydrate loading.

Day 2: The Aquathlon Challenge & Kicker Rock Marine Expedition

• 07:00 AM — Main Sporting Event:

  • Leg 1 (Ocean Swim – 1.5 km): Open-water crossing from Playa Mann to Tijeretas Cove under direct kayak and vessel supervision.

  • Leg 2 (Technical Trail Run – 10 km): High-cadence run across sharp basaltic lava fields, Tijeretas cliffs, Baquerizo Beach, and coastal tracks.

• 11:30 AM — Marine Recovery & Snorkeling: Boarding a dedicated vessel for Kicker Rock (León Dormido). Active recovery snorkeling through vertical marine channels, observing Galapagos sharks, eagle rays, and sea turtles. Onboard sports lunch provided.

• 16:30 PM: Return to port; evening dedicated to muscular recovery.

Day 3: Highlands to Coast Downhill Trail & Coastal Recovery

• 06:30 AM — Highland Trail Run (12 km – Downhill Elevation): Private transfer to El Junco Crater Lake in the island’s humid highlands.

  • Route Dynamics: Technical 12 km descent transitioning rapidly through microclimates—from humid highland cloud forests down to the arid coastal biome of El Progreso.

• 11:00 AM — Conservation & Wildlife Integration: Guided visit to the Cerro Colorado Tortoise Reserve to observe giant tortoises in a semi-wild sanctuary.

• 13:00 PM — Active Rest: Rehydration and relaxation at Puerto Chino Beach, featuring white-sand shores and natural coastal waves.

• 16:00 PM: Private return transfer to hotel.

Day 4: Sunrise Shakeout & Executive Departure

• 07:00 AM: Easy 3 km recovery shakeout run along the Puerto Baquerizo Moreno waterfront at sunrise.

• 08:30 AM: Farewell breakfast featuring locally sourced organic coffee and fresh fruits.

• Departure: Private transfer to San Cristóbal Airport for outbound flights or island extensions.

Professional Service Inclusions

Included:

• Accommodation: 3 nights in superior 3-star/boutique hotel accommodations.

• Support Crew: Lead certified Galapagos National Park guide (PADI / Multisport background) and dedicated terrestrial support vehicle (pickup/van) for highland routes.

• Athlete Logistics: On-route mobile hydration, electrolyte replenishment, high-altitude regional fruits, and energy snacks.

• Excursions: Full-day offshore boat tour to Kicker Rock including complete snorkeling equipment and lunch.

• Transfers: All land and sea transfers (Airport – Hotel – Start Points – Airport).

• Digital Media: Professional high-resolution photo and video package capturing the athlete’s route performance.

Not Included:

• Commercial airfare to/from San Cristóbal, Galapagos (SCY).

• Galapagos National Park Entrance Fee ($200 USD international) & Transit Control Card / TDT ($20 USD).

• Personal running shoes, specialized hydration vests, or personal wetsuits.

• Discretionary crew gratuities and personal insurance policies.

Plan Your Expedition with a Local Specialist:

Get insider tips on trail conditions, ocean swim preparation, and custom itinerary options from a native Galapagos athlete. Contact us on WhatsApp (+593 98 618 6253) or via email—we’re here to help you conquer San Cristóbal!