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CERRO TIJERETAS (Frigatebird Hill) San Cristóbal (Chatham) Island


Permitted Uses:   Interpretive and Educational Tours    Photography and filming

It is called Tijeretas because this is the name commonly known for the frigates. It is located within walking distance of Port Baquerizo Moreno. Close to this site operated La Predial, which was a fishing society and who was present on the island between 1952 and 1960. 

The entrance can be made through the street that leads to "Mann Beach". The loop is 3.5 miles and estimated travel time is 2 hours. There are many vistas where you can appreciate the beautiful scenery and there is also an inlet where you can go snorkeling. 

It is one of the only places where you can watch the two species of frigate birds nesting in the same colony. 

In one of the vistas there is American-made cannon dating from the Second World War which taken by the Ecuadorian Navy in the early 1970s for military exercises. Another vista offers a panoramic view of the north coast of the island from where one can see the Kicker Rock (León Dormido), Cerro Mundo and Cerro Tijeretas. At the third vista there is a statue of Charles Darwin in honor of his stay in San Cristóbal. The upper vista is located on Cerro Tijereta.

Special Indications

  • Avoid sudden and loud movements like loud sounds so as to not frighten the frigates (tijeretas).

  • It is advisable to combine the walk to the hill with a time for swimming at Playa Man. The excursion is a bit long and sometimes very hot. Carry water. 

  • You can obtain information at the National Park Office, located on the road to Playa Man.

  • It is an ideal place to practice surfing. The visit can be combined with a tour to the Interpretation Center because there is a path that links them directly.