El Junco Crater Lake - a person in a kayak in the water
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El Junco Crater Lake

4.4
·29 reviews·San Cristobal, Ecuador

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Dry season mornings

Clearer skies, less mud

CrowdLow
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El Junco Crater Lake - a person in a kayak in the water

El Junco Crater Lake

Best Time

Dry season mornings

Clearer skies, less mud

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.4
(29 reviews)

"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."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Freshwater Crater Lake

The Freshwater Crater Lake

San Cristobal Island Highlands

Galapagos' only freshwater lake, a stunning caldera filled with rain, offering unique birdwatching opportunities.

Abundant Birdlife

Abundant Birdlife

Around the lake

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

Panoramic Highland Views

Panoramic Highland Views

Overlook points

Enjoy sweeping vistas of the island and potentially the coast, weather permitting. The mist adds a dramatic, ethereal quality.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything for El Junco

El Junco is the Galapagos' only freshwater lake, nestled in an extinct volcanic crater. Visit during the dry season (June-September) for clearer skies, though mist is common and adds to the mystique. Be prepared for humidity and potential mud, especially after rain.

Getting to this Highland Gem

El Junco is located in the highlands of San Cristobal Island. Taxis are the primary way to reach it, and it's advisable to negotiate a round-trip fare, including waiting time, as public transport is limited. Consider combining it with other island interior sites like Puerto Chino.

Best Times

When
Dry season mornings
Why
Clearer skies, less mud
Crowd
Low
When
Anytime with mist
Why
Mysterious, unique atmosphere
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Friendly reminder that this is your last summer to visit the lake, at Crater Lake, Oregon until 2029. #craterlake #pnw #oregon #lake #craterlakenationalpark #PNWGetaway #TravelTok #VacationVibes #NatureLovers #HiddenGems #ScenicViews #Wanderlust #WeekendGetaway #ExploreMore
@svetlanassmith
80.5K likes • 1.1M views

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

Trails can get very muddy, especially after rain. Waterproof hiking boots are recommended! Reddit

💧 Pack Water & Snacks

There are no facilities at the lake. Bring plenty of water and snacks for your visit. Reddit

The Best Trail in Crater Lake National Park is Closing!! 📍SAVE to plan your trip to Crater Lake! At the end of 2025 Crater Lake is closing the only trail that leads to the bottom of the rim for renovations and it’s not expected to open again until 2029! That means this is your last summer for a while to swim in the lake or visit and hike Wizard Island via boat tour! Info about the trail and Wizard...
@voyageswithval
53.6K likes • 1.6M views
☺️🌿 Discover El Junco Lagoon, the Galapagos Islands’ only freshwater lake! Nestled within an extinct volcanic crater on San Cristobal island, this hidden gem offers panoramic views, lush vegetation, and a cool escape from coastal heat. 💚🙌Explore diverse birdlife and embrace the mysterious mist as you journey uphill. Planning your visit is a breeze – read on for all the details! Link in Story 😊 ...
happygringo
123 likes • 637 views

🚗 Negotiate Taxi Fare

Taxis are the main transport. Agree on a round-trip price, including waiting time, to avoid surprises. Reddit

☁️ Be Patient with Weather

Mist is common. If it's cloudy, wait a bit; views can change rapidly. Reddit

El Junco Lagoon is a lake in the highlands of San Cristóbal in the Galápagos Islands. Despite the name, it is a volcanic crater lake rather than a lagoon. It's a great tour for hiking, birdwatching, photography and filming. Come to San Cristóbal Galápagos. We will help you to make your holidays the best ever. Book directly with us @galapagoscasaplayamann . . . #galapagos #holidays #cometogal...
cpmglapgs
24 likes • 560 views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

Trails can get very muddy, especially after rain. Waterproof hiking boots are recommended! Reddit

💧 Pack Water & Snacks

There are no facilities at the lake. Bring plenty of water and snacks for your visit. Reddit

🚗 Negotiate Taxi Fare

Taxis are the main transport. Agree on a round-trip price, including waiting time, to avoid surprises. Reddit

☁️ Be Patient with Weather

Mist is common. If it's cloudy, wait a bit; views can change rapidly. Reddit

📸 Capture the Mist

The ethereal mist adds a magical quality to photos, even if visibility is reduced. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.4
(29 reviews)

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

Unique freshwater lake
Birdwatching opportunities
Highland scenery

What People Dislike

Weather dependent views
Muddy trails
Cost of taxi access

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Public bus services to El Junco are not readily available. Taxis or organized tours are the most practical options for reaching this highland attraction. Reddit

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. Instagram

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). Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. Instagram

El Junco is generally accessible during daylight hours. It's best to visit during the day to appreciate the views and wildlife. Instagram

No, advance booking is not usually required for El Junco. You can typically pay the entrance fee upon arrival. Instagram

Unfortunately, there are no restrooms available at El Junco Crater Lake, either at the parking area or at the top. Plan accordingly. Reddit

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. Instagram

🎫 🏞️ 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. InstagramReddit

You can spot various bird species, including frigatebirds, finches, and other endemic birds that frequent the freshwater lake. Instagram+1

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

📸 📸 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. Instagram+1

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. Reddit

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

The frequent mist and clouds can be challenging but also create dramatic and ethereal photographic opportunities. Patience is key, as conditions can change quickly. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

El Junco offers a unique natural experience for families. The short walk from the parking area to the viewpoints is manageable for most children. The chance to see unique birds like frigatebirds can be exciting for younger visitors. However, be mindful of the potential for mud, so ensure kids wear appropriate footwear. There are no facilities like restrooms, so plan accordingly. Reddit

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

For hikers, El Junco presents an opportunity to explore the unique highland ecosystem of San Cristobal. The crater rim trail offers a more immersive experience, though its muddy conditions require sturdy footwear. The chance to observe endemic birdlife in its natural habitat is a major draw. InstagramReddit

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

El Junco is a dream for photographers seeking unique shots. The volcanic caldera setting combined with the frequent mist creates dramatic and atmospheric scenes. Capture the reflections on the freshwater lake, the silhouettes of birds against the misty sky, and the lush highland vegetation. Instagram+1

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

El Junco Crater Lake is a remarkable natural wonder, formed within the caldera of an extinct volcano on San Cristobal Island. This geological formation is the Galapagos Islands' only natural freshwater lake. Over thousands of years, rainwater and mist have collected in the collapsed volcanic crater, creating this unique aquatic ecosystem. The lake's elevation in the highlands contributes to its cooler temperatures and distinct microclimate compared to the coastal areas of the Galapagos. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

Wildlife Encounters at El Junco

El Junco Crater Lake is a haven for various bird species, many of which are endemic to the Galapagos. Visitors often report seeing frigatebirds bathing in the freshwater, a sight that is particularly striking given their usual coastal habitat. The lake also attracts numerous finches and other highland bird species that rely on this freshwater source. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

Navigating the Highlands: Transport and Trails

Reaching El Junco requires a journey into the island's highlands. Taxis are the most common mode of transport, and it's essential to negotiate a fair round-trip price, including the driver's waiting time, as services are sparse in this remote area. The drive itself offers scenic views of the island's interior, transitioning from coastal scrub to lush greenery. Reddit

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. Reddit

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