Things to do in
Isabela Island, Galapagos Islands

Our most recommended things to do in Isabela Island, Galapagos Islands

From Puerto Ayora: Isabela Island & Tintorera Islet Day Tour

From Puerto Ayora: Isabela Island & Tintorera Islet Day Tour

Embark on a very active, captivating day tour to Isabela Island, a gem of the Galapagos. This early day starts with a speedboat ride (public speedboat, the only way to get to Isabela by water, navigation time approx. 2 hours) to the seahorse shaped island of Isabela, in the western part of the archipelago. As soon as you arrive, you will notice immediately that the boat ride was definitely worth it: The endemic Galapagos Penguins usually already await you on the rocks when entering the bay of Puerto Villamil. After some free time on the little beach right next to the pier where you can observe sea lions and marine iguanas, a little boat (very short navigation time, the National Park doesn't allow bigger boats within the bay) to Tintorera Islet, an ecological heaven where you'll encounter tons of marine iguanas, sharks resting in the islet's little Channel, blue-footed boobies and the iconic Galapagos penguins. Accompanied by a naturalist guide, you'll learn about the diverse ecosystems and the different types of lava that formed this islet. After that you will get a short but great snorkel activity offering lots of variety as here we can usually find some sea turtles, sea lions, sharks, rays, and possibly penguins. When getting back to the pier, you will get a ride to one of the best oceanfront restaurants for a nice lunch menu, before our land tour will start: A naturalist guide will try to spot the flamingos for you (not easy as they like to move around a lot and there are many different lagoons on Isabela), before taking you on a visit of the Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre, where you cannot only see the baby and juvenile giant tortoises, but also very old ones up to 200 years. As last part of this tour, you will walk the short trail towards the beach, along another lagoon with mangroves where you might get lucky and see some more flamingos as well as big marine iguanas and different species of birds. Right after this visit you will be accompanied back to the pier again, from where (after the check-in process & luggage control, which is obligatory for any speedboat ride between inhabited islands), a speeboat will take you back to Puerto Ayora. and The wetlands trail promises sightings of flamingos amidst mangroves, leading to a serene coconut palm beach. Further enriching the experience, the Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre introduces you to these gentle giants, providing insight into conservation efforts.

Conquer Sierra Negra Volcano! Expedition to the lava fields

Conquer Sierra Negra Volcano! Expedition to the lava fields

Get ready to be captivated into the fascinating realms of volcanology, plant life, captivating landscapes, intriguing history, and incredible adventures awaiting you in the Galápagos at the third active largest caldera in the world. During this immersive half-day excursion spanning 6 hours, you'll hike 16 kilometers with an expert bilingual tour guide where you will explore the active zone of the volcano, observe the enormous cracks inside of the caldera, walk over volcanic formations, lava tunnels, be inside of the tuff cones and scenic formations of the northern flank of the volcano. You will feel like you are inside of the moon, totally different experience. At the end viewpoint you will observe the north side of the island and a 360 view of the majesty and energy of the volcano with different colors. We've taken care of all the essentials for your comfort and convenience during the tour. Your package includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an expert tour guide, transportation, and a delicious box lunch with options suitable for various dietary preferences, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. We kindly ask you to inform us of any specific dietary restrictions you may have.

Los Tuneles Day Tour (Isabela Island)

Los Tuneles Day Tour (Isabela Island)

Description: Early in the morning, at 07:15 or 11:00 am, after wondering a delicious breakfast, you will embark on a must-do day trip to one of the most biodiverse sites in the Galapagos, Los Tuneles -or The Tunnels in English- also known as Cabo Rosa. They are unique geological formations, a series of arcs and tunnels underneath and above the water, located 1 hour riding from Puerto Villamil Pier. The first spot is in Roca Union a small islet located in the open sea were watching majestic pelicans, blue footed boobies and Nazca Boobies and, occasionally, sea lions resting on the rocks makes your terrific journey. This site is an ideal place for snorkeling due to its crystal-clear and shallow waters, so there is possible to swim next to sea turtles, white-tipped sharks, trumpetfish and surgeon fish. It is also able to see eagle and golden rays. The second and principle spot is in Los Tuneles where you will be allowed to do more snorkeling and enjoy some short trail observing the landscape and teeming wildlife. Cabo Rosa is heaven to sea turtles, marine iguanas, sea lions, blue footed boobies, royal frigate, eagle rays, penguins, lobsters, sea snakes, a variety of birds, among other species. Hot box lunch will be served aboard. It is recommended to wear a wetsuit in order to neutralize the sea temperature, because it falls below 20ºC from June to November and it is up to 27ºC from December to May. Departure: at 7:15 am or 11:00 am from Puerto Villamil Pier Returning time: approximately at 1:30 pm or 5:00 pm Travel Time: speed boat ride takes around 1 hour (August – October the seas can be quite rough). Adventurers with back or neck injuries are not advised to take this journey. Difficulty Level: intermediate Highlight activity: walking and snorkeling Transportation: speed boat Important: day before of the tour all passengers must be at 5:00 pm in the Galapagos Path for wetsuit fitting.

Day Trip to Isabela Island and Tintoreras in Galápagos

Day Trip to Isabela Island and Tintoreras in Galápagos

We begin the tour at 06H10 AM at the port of Puerto Ayora to board the ferry that will take us to Isabela. (Transfer in boat has a duration of 2 hours approximately until arrive to Isabela) We start the activity at 09:00 from Isabela Island, from the bay we go by means of a boat to a group of islets called Tintoreras. Well known for being the habitat of penguins and white tip sharks! Other animals that we can observe while we surround the islets are: rays, sea turtles, bay sharks, colorful fish, etc. Tintorera sharks. Along a channel with fences on one of its edges, we can find a large number of individuals of the species. Likewise, we enjoyed a snorkeling time near the site. At the end of our activity in the complex, we headed to the port to enjoy lunch. Our next stop is the flamingo lagoon. We have time to take pictures. To finish, we headed to the Arnaldo Tupiza Breeding Center. We can see the turtles in the conservation area. We finish the tour at 14:00 p.m. then we have to come back to Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz - 2 Hours of Ferry

Explore the Natural Wonders of Isabela and Tintoreras Islet

Explore the Natural Wonders of Isabela and Tintoreras Islet

Embark on an unforgettable adventure to Isabela Island, one of the most impressive destinations in the Galapagos Islands. This full-day tour includes a ferry ride from Puerto Ayora and takes you to explore Tintoreras Islet, famous for its abundant wildlife and unique landscapes. The tour begins at 7:00 am from the Puerto Ayora dock on Santa Cruz Island, with a ferry ride of approximately 2 hours to Puerto Villamil on Isabela. During the navigation, enjoy spectacular views of the ocean and surrounding islands. Upon arrival, you will visit the Arnaldo Tupiza Breeding Center, where you will learn about the Galapagos National Park's conservation efforts to protect giant tortoises and see both juvenile and adult tortoises. Next, you will explore the Isabela wetlands, home to one of the most extensive mangrove areas in the Galapagos, where you can observe pink flamingos, ducks and other birds while enjoying the beautiful scenery. The highlight of the tour is a visit to Tintoreras Islet, known for the white tip sharks, also called blue sharks, resting in a crevice of crystal clear water. In addition, you will see marine iguanas, sea lions, penguins and blue-footed boobies. The visit includes a snorkeling session on a small beach, where you can discover the rich marine life. The ferry back to Santa Cruz departs at 3:00 pm, arriving in Puerto Ayora around 5:00 pm. The tour includes round trip ferry from Santa Cruz to Isabela, entrance fee to Isabela and water taxi, certified tour guide (English-Spanish), dock use tax, lunch, boat for the visit to Tintoreras Islet, long wetsuit and snorkeling gear. Soft drinks, towels and tips are not included. It is recommended to bring comfortable walking clothes, swimsuit, biodegradable sunscreen, and a camera to capture the breathtaking scenery, and take motion sickness pills 30 minutes before boarding, as the ferry ride can be bumpy. Enjoy a unique experience exploring the natural diversity of Isabela and Tintoreras Islet with Enchanted Islands. Reserve your place today and live an unforgettable adventure in the Galapagos Islands!

Half Day Tintoreras Tour from Isabela Island

Half Day Tintoreras Tour from Isabela Island

The guide will pick you up in the lobby of the hotel, (Hotel pick up inside the urban perimeter of Puerto Villamil) or we can give you a good meeting point to join with us. We started the activity at 09:00 AM or 14H00 PM from Isabela Island. From the bay we go to a set of islets called Tintoreras. Well known for being the habitat of penguins and white tip sharks! We can sight these cute birds and have a great chance of finding wolves sailors along the coasts. Other animals that we can observe while surrounding the islets are: rays, sea turtles, bay shakrs, goldfish, etc. We enjoyed snorkeling time near the site, we will observe, sea turtles, sea lions, shark dye, different types of manta rays, various types of fish, galapagos penguin etc). Bird watching (blue footed boobies and other birds) Islet walk observation of volcanic rock formations. The boat drop off in Puerto Villamil´s dock and you can go to your hotel by yourself

Sulfur fumaroles spectacle: Inside the volcano expedition

Sulfur fumaroles spectacle: Inside the volcano expedition

Sulfur Fumaroles Spectacle: Inside the Sierra Negra Volcano Expedition is a captivating adventure that takes you deep into the heart of an active volcano with the 3rd active largest caldera in the world in Isabela Island. This is a 4h30 exploration perfect for thrill-seekers, nature enthusiasts, and those with a passion for Earth's geological marvels, this expedition promises an adventure like no other. 1. Explore the Unknown: Embark on a journey into the mysterious world beneath the Earth's surface, where you'll encounter otherworldly sulfur fumaroles and lava formations, we will drive along the flanks of the volcano and see the enormous caldera. 2. Surreal Sulfuric Landscapes: Witness surreal landscapes as you navigate through the volcanic terrain, petrified ferns, endemic tree ferns, where billowing sulfuric clouds and steaming vents create an eerie, ethereal atmosphere. 3. Expert Guided: Led by experienced guides, this expedition ensures safety while offering fascinating insights into the geological and scientific wonders of volcanic activity. 4. Up-Close Encounters: Get up close and personal with active sulfur vents, we will start the exploration walking 4 km total inside of the caldera of the volcano, allowing you to witness the raw power and beauty of nature's forces. 5. Observe closer the volcanic rock composed by iron, silica and sulfur and the crystal formation. After the exploration, we will have a picnic in front of the caldera to eat a delicious lunch included in your tour. You will be in a group with a tour guide who will share unique insights about the unique volcanology of Galapagos and this active volcano.

Walking Tour to Sierra Negra volcano and Chico Volcano

Walking Tour to Sierra Negra volcano and Chico Volcano

The guide will pick you up in a good meeting point offer for you The tour starts early in the morning, you pick up a bus or car to take you to the starting point that is 30 minutes from Puerto Villamil, where the trail that leads to the Sierra Negra volcano begins. The walk lasts about 5 hours and most of the journey is flat, with few ups and downs. When you enter the small volcano, which is inside the crater of the Sierra Negra Volcano, you will realize that it is still active and many holes feel warm when you put your hand. Drop off in Puerto Villamil's dock, you have to go to the hotel bu yourlself

Volcán Trillizos

Volcán Trillizos

While in the Galapagos archipiélago on Isabela Island. Up by the volcanic sierra, you will have the opportunity to rappelling down 500 feet inside an ancient volcano’s crater, reach bottom, walk around the chambers, and witness the long evolution of geology on its natural state, see untouched quartz Cristals, petrified lichens and more natural wonders that were formed by this dormant volcano last eruption (600,000 years ago). ….. Then, climb up back to the surface, walk around the triplets edge (three volcanoes together) and observe from safety, the abysmal tunnels inside of each volcano, while enjoying the majestic coast and Galapagos ocean view. Don’t miss this treat!

Galapagos horse riding the ridges of Sierra Negra Volcano

Galapagos horse riding the ridges of Sierra Negra Volcano

Embark on an exhilarating 5-hour adventure starting at 800 meters above sea level, exploring the unique landscapes of Sierra Negra Volcano in the Galapagos Islands. The journey begins with a horseback ride through humid vegetation and agricultural areas, gradually ascending to the summit of the world's third-largest active caldera. Marvel at the panoramic views of the caldera as you ride alongside it for 5 kilometers. Your experience is enriched by the guidance of a knowledgeable Galapagos naturalist guide, an expert in volcanology, who will provide insights into the geological wonders and history of the volcano. Upon reaching a scenic viewpoint, you'll delve into the fascinating details of the volcano, followed by a 2-hour hike through the active lava fields. Witness magnificent rock formations and enjoy a stunning view of Isabela's northern sea horse-shaped coastline. After a picnic lunch, the adventure continues with a 5-kilometer horseback ride back to the starting point, offering an immersive exploration of the Galapagos' rich flora, geological history, and breathtaking vistas. The tour kicks off at 7:30 am, promising an unforgettable experience until 1:30 pm.

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