Kicker Rock: the snorkeling gem of the Galapagos

Kicker Rock (Leon dormido) is an ancient volcanic landmark and one of Galapagos’ most iconic sights. From Puerto Baquerizo Moreno (San Cristobal Island’s capital), the rock is visible roughly 17 km. offshore and reached by about 90 to 100 minutes on a boat ride.

Its rugged twin pillars- remnants of a collapsed tuff cone– draw visitors worldwide. Snorkelers and scuba divers flock here to swim in the protected channel between the walls. Above water, the cliffs are a roost for seabirds (blue-footed and masked boobies, Nazca boobies, frigatebirds, pelicans).

Below water, rich plankton from the Humboldt Current attracts marine life (blacktip and whitetip reef sharks, Galapagos sharks, occasional hammerheads, rays, turtles and sea lions).

This post covers everything you need to know: how to get to Kicker Rock, when to go, costs, safety and gear, plus a little bit of wildlife you can expect, to make of your experience in the Galapagos an unforgettable one.

Location and access

• Kicker Rock lies off the northeast coast of San Cristobal Island, part of Ecuador’s Galapagos National Park. The rock is in open ocean waters, so land access is impossible. All visits must be via a licensed tour boat.

• Daily day tours depart from the town pier at dawn, usually around 7 a.m. to 8 a.m., and return by early afternoon, between 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

• There are some tours called “San Cristobal “360°”, which, besides the Kicker Rock, include other landmarks in San Cristobal, circumnavigating the island during 9 to 10 hours.

• Galapagos cruises often include Kicker Rock in their itineraries, but always confirm with your operator or agent the specific route.

• One important aspect to remark is that no independent boats or kayaks may land or snorkel here without special permits; only approved tour operators and guides are allowed.

Getting There

• From mainland Ecuador. Fly into Quito or Guayaquil, then take a domestic flight to San Cristobal Airport (SCY). San Cristobal is one of the two main island gateways (the other is Baltra/Santa Cruz). From San Cristobal’s airport, it is a short taxi ride to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno.

• From other islands. If visiting via Santa Cruz, you will have to take a ferry to San Cristobal first, around 2 hours per way.

Tour options and costs

• Snorkeling tours. Day trips, 6 to 7 hours, dedicated to Kicker Rock snorkeling. These include 2 to 3 hours of water time in the Kicker Rock channel, plus often a second stop at a nearby beach (e.g. Manglecito, Puerto Grande or Cerro Brujo). Tour operators usually provide snorkel gear, wetsuits, lunch and guide. Prices range roughly $180–$220 USD per person (shared small-boat tours).
• Snorkel + dive tours. Some operators combine snorkeling at Kicker Rock with diving (for certified divers). Typically two short dives and one snorkel are offered on an 8-hour tour, visiting Kicker Rock and one beach. You will be required to have a PADI/SSI certification and a logbook; gear is provided. (If uncertified, some shops offer an introductory scuba option). Prices are higher compared to the only-snorkeling tours, starting at $ 200 USD, varying according to dive equipment and instructor fees.
• 360° Island tours. As mentioned before, these are longer tours that take around 9 to 10 hours, and include other important San Cristobal’s landmarks, like Cerro Brujo or Punta Pitt. Prices could vary starting at $250 USD.
• Private Boats/Charters. Chartering a private yacht (for 2+ passengers) is possible but costly (roughly $400 or more). These custom trips may include Kicker Rock. (Be sure the boat is Park-certified.)

It is important to highlight that there is no additional fee for accessing the Kicker Rock. The fee you already paid when entering the Galapagos National Park is enough; you will only have to pay for the tour arrangements to this spot.

What to expect

• World-class snorkel. Many travelers call Kicker Rock “the crown jewel” of Galapagos snorkeling. The crystal-clear channel and diverse species often make it a trip highlight.
• No landing zone. Unlike some Galapagos islets, it is not possible to set foot on Kicker Rock. There are no visitor pathways or landings; all activity is from boats or the water.
• Diverse fauna. Hammerhead sharks, Galapagos sharks, whitetip reef sharks, sea lions, sea turtles, manta rays, as well as various seabirds such as blue-footed boobies and frigatebirds.
• Photography. On the surface, the channel looks emerald-green. Underwater, you will see how the sunlight plays on the tuff walls. Photographers often drop down to eye level with fish for stunning shots. The natural light ray spotlight through the gap is especially attractive just after sunrise.

Practical tips

• Book tours in advance. Be it online or via your hotel or operator; prices could be slightly cheaper (and protected against cancellations) compared to booking onsite. Reconfirm what your tour includes; most of the operators include wetsuit and snorkeling gear, but some might not include it.
• No extra Kicker Rock permit. Remember that, besides the Galapagos National Park entrance fee, you will not have to pay for any other official fee to access the Kicker Rock.
• Protect wildlife. Use environment-friendly sunscreen, do not touch or feed wildlife, take back with you any waste you generate (you will not find a place at Kicker Rock to throw the trash). Always follow Galapagos National Park guidelines.
• Take a go pro. If possible and within your means. The Kicker Rock is a fantastic place to take undersea photos of fauna. In case you cannot take with you an underwater camera, do not worry! Most of the operators will capture images and videos through the guide and share them with you afterwards.
• Verify the operator you book with is a certified one. Operators must have the right permit for taking you to the Kicker Rock; so make sure you hire a legally-established operator.
• Wear the wetsuit. Especially if you are sensitive to cold; depending on the season, the water temperature may start at 18ºC (64,4ºF).

Verdict: is it worth including the Kicker Rock in my Galapagos itinerary?

Yes, it is! If you are staying at San Cristobal Island, include Kicker Rock in your itinerary.

I would recommend taking a 360º tour that integrates Kicker Rock as part of the tour; this way, you will save time, money, and also get to know the most remarkable sites of the island.