The channel
Between the pillars.
Xxchangwoo0120xx — CC BY-SA 3.0 · Andrew Turner from Washington, DC, United States — CC BY 2.0 · kuhnmi — CC BY 2.0
A stunning volcanic rock formation rising from the ocean off San Cristóbal, the remains of an old volcanic cone eroded into two towering pillars split by a narrow channel. Islanders call it «León Dormido», the sleeping lion, as from some angles it looks like a crouching lion. Its big draw is snorkelling and diving in the deep channel between the pillars, where clear blue water teems with life: sharks of several kinds pass in the depths, along with sea turtles, rays and colourful fish, and sometimes curious sea lions. Around the rock are many seabirds, including blue-footed boobies and frigatebirds. Trips usually include a stop at a nearby beach to relax and swim. Trips from Puerto Baquerizo Moreno are priced separately and include gear; the sea can be choppy, so bring seasickness tablets if needed. The water is colder than you expect, so a wetsuit helps. Foreign visitors pay the US$200 national park fee and the US$20 transit card to enter the Galápagos, per 2026 visitor guides.
Between the pillars.
Sharks, turtles, rays.
The rock's birds.
Off San Cristóbal Island, about an hour by boat from Puerto Baquerizo Moreno
Yes with a licensed guide: the sharks there do not usually bother snorkellers, but currents can be strong. Wear a life vest if you are not a strong swimmer.