El Junco Lagoon, San Cristobal, Galapagos

Table of content

1. El Junco Lagoon: A Pristine Freshwater Oasis in the Galapagos Islands
2. About El Junco Lake
3. Location and Access
4. How to visit El Junco?
5. Experiencing El Junco Lagoon
6. Practical Tips for your Visit​

El Junco Lagoon: A Pristine Freshwater Oasis in the Galapagos Islands

 

Discover the Natural Wonders of El Junco Lagoon on San Cristobal Island

El Junco Lagoon, a hidden gem in the heart of the Galapagos Islands, boasts the title of being the sole freshwater lake in this remarkable archipelago. Nestled atop the picturesque San Cristobal Island, this enchanting oasis offers a unique experience for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. From its abundant birdlife to the captivating panoramic views, El Junco Lagoon provides an enticing contrast to the region's hot coastal beaches. Let's delve into the details of this pristine freshwater marvel and learn how to explore it during your Galapagos adventure.

About El Junco Lake

 

Freshwater sources are a rarity in the Galapagos Islands, known for their brackish lakes and saltwater pools. El Junco Lagoon's exceptional existence is rooted in history, as it was formed tens of thousands of years ago when a volcanic crater collapsed, eventually filling with rainwater from the lush highlands. This natural wonder now holds a substantial 360,000 cubic meters of crystal-clear freshwater, with a diameter of 270 meters and a depth of up to 6 meters. During the dry season, water levels recede noticeably, and during extreme wet seasons, such as El Niño events, El Junco can even overflow, forming temporary rivers. Interestingly, the name "El Junco" derives from the local term for an endemic sedge plant, Eleocharis mutata, which thrives in this unique habitat.

Location and Access

 

El Junco Lagoon is perched in the highlands of San Cristobal Island, offering stunning views at an altitude of 700 meters (2,300 feet). To reach this secluded haven from Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, embark on a 19-kilometer drive along a well-paved road, passing through the quaint settlement of El Progreso along the way.

How to visit El Junco?

 

Exploring El Junco Lagoon is a breeze, and it won't strain your travel budget. There are several convenient ways to experience the beauty of this unique destination.

• DIY Adventure: If you're the independent type, you can hail a taxi and negotiate a round trip to El Junco. Your friendly driver will wait in the parking lot while you embark on the trek to the crater lake. For an insider tip, consult your taxi driver about the best time to visit for optimal weather conditions. Mornings typically offer clearer skies, but it's advisable to verify the local weather conditions for the day.

• Guided Tours: For travelers who prefer guidance from a naturalist expert, you can easily book El Junco tours at local agencies in town. Having a registered Galapagos guide enhances the experience by providing insights about the area and highlighting the wildlife you might otherwise overlook. Notably, El Junco visits are often integrated into multi-day Galapagos land tours for an immersive exploration.

 

Experiencing El Junco Lagoon

 

At El Junco Lagoon, there's an array of activities to enjoy. Let's explore the key attractions and things to do:

• Hiking: The principal activity at El Junco Lagoon is hiking. Starting from the parking lot, an uphill trail leads you directly to the lagoon. The brisk ascent takes around 15-20 minutes to reach the lagoon viewpoint, rewarding you with a breathtaking panorama of El Junco Lake and the surrounding landscapes. The main viewpoint offers an excellent opportunity for stunning photographs of the lake and its vibrant surroundings. Be aware that clouds can drift in swiftly in the highlands, so seize clear skies to capture beautiful shots when the moment arises. There's also a somewhat muddy trail that encircles the lake, allowing different perspectives and a closer look at the water's avian inhabitants. This loop trail takes approximately 30 minutes to complete at a moderate pace, extending the trek to about 2 kilometers in total.

• Bird Watching: El Junco Lagoon is a hotspot for Galapagos bird watching. Marvel at the spectacle of frigate birds descending to cleanse salt from their wings. You'll also encounter ducks and waders, including white-cheeked pintail ducks, moorhens, common gallinules, cattle egrets, and pied-billed grebes. While traversing the hill trail, keep an eye out for the San Cristobal mockingbird, Galapagos flycatcher, and Darwin finches.

• Plant Life: The highlands of El Junco offer a unique and verdant landscape, distinct from the coastal beaches. Frequent mist and drizzly rain nurture a lush ecosystem, creating the perfect habitat for ferns, sedges, and lichens. The scenery often evokes a setting from Jurassic Park. Notable plant species include the endangered Galapagos miconia (Miconia robinsoniana) and the endemic Eleocharis mutata sedge, from which El Junco derives its name.

 

Practical Tips for your Visit

 

Here are some helpful tips for an enjoyable El Junco Lagoon experience:

• Early Start: Plan your visit to El Junco in the early morning hours to benefit from clearer skies and observe more active birdlife.

• Weather Preparedness: El Junco is known for rapidly changing weather conditions with swift-moving clouds and mist. Make sure to carry weather-appropriate attire to adapt to these variations.

• Muddy Trails: Be mindful that trails can become muddy, especially during the rainy season from January through April. Appropriate footwear is essential for a comfortable hike.

• No Entrance Fee: Entrance to El Junco is free for all visitors.

• Opening Hours: The lagoon is accessible from sunrise to sunset every day.

• What to Bring: Consider packing comfortable walking shoes or hiking sandals, sun protection (sunglasses, hat, sunblock), plenty of water, a rain jacket, and mosquito repellent.

 

Experience the wonder of El Junco Lagoon during your Galapagos journey.