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Kicker Rock – Galapagos Islands
Galapagos Islands – Darwin & Wolf Islands
April 1, 2019
Lobos Island – Galapagos Islands
April 8, 2019Kicker Rock Galapagos is a fascinating site. This island is also known as Leon Dormido (sleeping lion). The reason for the two different names is because the rock can seem like a sleeping lion, depending on the way that you look at it. If you look at it from the south it is thought to look like this. If you look at it from the other side, it appears to some to resemble more of a boot, and this is why it also has the name Kicker Rock. Here we will inform you of everything you need to know about Kicker Rock Galapagos, including things to do, when to go, how to get there, wildlife you may see, and our own Insider recommendations for a visit to Kicker Rock.
Things to Do in Kicker Rock
The things to do at Kicker Rock mostly involve being in the water. Kicker Rock is known as being a superb site for snorkeling in Galapagos, and also good for diving too, so these are the main activities that are carried out here. You might also enjoy photography here, as the unusual shaped land form lends itself rather well to some interesting pictures.
Since Kicker Rock is a snorkeling and diving site, so naturally you can expect a wet landing! You’ll be getting directly into the water to experience everything that Kicker Rock has to offer.
How to visit Kicker Rock
You will not be able to access Kicker Rock on your own. However, unlike some of the other Galapagos marine visitor sites, you can visit Kicker Rock either on a Galapagos Islands cruise, or from a day tour. This makes it accessible to visitors that are staying on the Galapagos Islands in land based options.
Day tours to Kicker Rock typically leave from Puerto Baquerizo Moreno dock and head out early in the morning. You can expect to be out for the majority of the day on the trip, as the tour lasts for eight hours. However, not all of this time is spent at Kicker Rock, and the journey itself is only 1.5 hours each way. The day trip usually includes another activity, typically a visit to a quiet beach, for your enjoyment.
Not all cruises visit Kicker Rock, so be sure to check rather than assuming it will be on your itinerary.
Best time to Go to Kicker Rock
The best time to go to Kicker Rock will depend on your personal preferences. This Galapagos visitor site can be visited all year around, and so there is every opportunity to enjoy snorkeling here. However, the seas will be warmer between December and May. This may mean that you are able to stay in the water longer and make the most of your visit. In the drier, cooler season, the seas are also cooler. This runs from June to November. While it will feel noticeably chillier in the water, there is also likely to be a greater variety of species there at this time due to the Humboldt Current bringing more nutrients to the Galapagos seas during these months. On the other hand, the seas can have stronger currents during this time, so the water may not be so clear as in the wetter warmer season. In particular, currents will be likely to be strongest around August and September time. This aside, if you are comfortable in the water and have a wetsuit, or don’t mind the cold as much, the cooler season may be best for the variety of species offered at this time. However, it is worth reiterating that you will be likely to see a lot of wildlife whenever you go to Kicker Rock.
Wildlife in Kicker Rock
There is a diverse variety of wildlife at Kicker Rock, so it is well worth a visit here if you can make it. Above the surface of the water you can expect to see few different types of sea birds. Species that are commonly found here are the blue footed booby, the masked booby and frigate birds. On the shore of Kicker Rock you may also see sea lions lazing around in the sunshine.
Under the water, the marine life is even more exciting. Kicker Rock is known to be an excellent place to see Galapagos sharks. However, sometimes hammerhead sharks are spotted there too. These excitements aside, on your Kicker Rock snorkeling trip you might also see different types of rays, sea turtles and marine iguanas. You can also expect to observe tropical fish going about their underwater lives.
Insider Recommendations for visits to Kicker Rock
Not all Galapagos Islands cruises visit Kicker Rock. You have a greater chance of doing so if your itinerary takes in San Cristobal Island, but even this is not for certain. Our Insider recommendation is to contact us to find tours that include Kicker Rock on the schedule, if this is a “must see” place for you. We also recommend taking binoculars, so you can observe the bird life clearer.
Why not get in touch and we can see if your planned Galapagos cruise will stop at Kicker Rock – or find options that will instead. We have years of expertise in making Galapagos bookings and can help you find your ideal Galapagos Islands trip – contact us today!
