Sharks of Galapagos

Common sharks

Galapagos Sharks

Encounter the Galapagos Shark (Carcharhinus galapagensis), a local celebrity in these waters! Endemic to the Galapagos Islands, these sharks, reaching up to 3m/10ft, showcase a striking dark grey color and a distinctive broad, flat snout. Spot them in shallow waters, effortlessly cruising as they feast on fish, squid, and crustaceans.

Hammerhead Sharks: Iconic and Majestic

Witness the iconic Hammerhead Shark (Sphyrnidae) family, dominated by the Scalloped Hammerhead (Sphyrna lewini). Easily recognizable by their hammer-shaped heads, these sharks excel in detecting prey buried in the sand. While typically found in deeper waters like Kicker Rock, they occasionally grace shallow bays and estuaries with their presence.

Bullhead Sharks: Nocturnal Marvels

Experience the nocturnal wonders of the Bullhead Shark (Heterodontus quoyi), a small yet fascinating species. With their flat, broad heads and strong jaws, these sharks are skilled hunters, preying on small fish and crustaceans in the waters surrounding San Cristobal Island.

Whitetip Reef Sharks: Docile Wonders

Encounter the Whitetip Reef Shark (Triaenodon obesus), a small yet abundant species known for its docile nature. Admire their white-tipped dorsal fins as they rest on the ocean floor or explore caves and crevices during the day, emerging at night to hunt small fish and invertebrates.

Blacktip Sharks: Fast and Agile Predators

Witness the speed and agility of the Blacktip Shark (Carcharhinus limbatus), a common sight around San Cristobal Island. These sharks, with their distinctive black-tipped dorsal and caudal fins, showcase acrobatic leaps as they hunt small fish and squid in the surrounding waters.

Embark on Rare Encounters

Tiger Sharks

Uncover the mysteries of the Tiger Shark (Galeocerdo cuvier), one of the largest and most fearsome sharks in these waters. With a potential length of 5.5m/18ft and a striking striped pattern, these sharks are voracious predators, consuming anything from turtles to dolphins.

Whale Sharks

Witness the awe-inspiring Whale Shark (Rhincodon typus), the largest fish globally, reaching lengths of up to 12m/40ft. These gentle giants, filter feeders by nature, grace the waters around San Cristobal Island, especially during warmer months when plankton blooms abound.

Dive Into the Adventure!

Ready to dive with these incredible sharks in the Galapagos? Contact us to tailor the ultimate dive tour, perfectly suited to your skill level and experience. Immerse yourself in the wonders of San Cristobal’s underwater realm for an experience of a lifetime!