León Dormido

One of the things I love about diving is how close you can get to the marine life
One of the things I love about diving is how close you can get to the marine life

I’ve always wanted to learn how to SCUBA dive and when I made it to San Cristobal I figured…when in the Galápagos, right?! And let me tell you, learning to SCUBA dive was one of the best decisions I’ve made while studying abroad, allowing me to enter even further into the underwater realm.

Getting ready to go on our first open water dive
Getting ready to go on our first open water dive

Besides being known for Darwin’s finches, the Galápagos Islands are known for having the most biodiversity in almost the entire world. Think about it, there is NO OTHER PLACE that has as many different species in one place. In fact, the Islands are considered to be one of the world’s best SCUBA and snorkeling destinations. I’ve gotten the privilege to dive twice at Kicker Rock, known to the locals as León Dormido.

The channel of Kicker Rock
The channel of Kicker Rock

Kicker Rock was originally a volcanic cone but has since been eroded from water, forming a channel that is perfect for diving and snorkeling. The channel is home to many species of fish and sharks including: scalloped hammerhead, Galápagos sharks, White-tip Reef sharks, and Black-tip Reef sharks. The scalloped hammerhead can be found throughout the archipelago in coastal areas, but you are almost guaranteed to see a Galápagos shark if you go to Kicker Rock.

A Galápagos Shark
A Galápagos Shark

Kicker Rock is also the perfect place to spot frigate birds and blue footed boobies nesting.

I still can’t believe that I have been on San Cristobal for over a month, I can’t wait to see my next few months have in store!! 🙂

yellow sea star
yellow sea star

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The shipwreck of Karanua
The shipwreck of Karanua

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