Marjolein Dilven
Which Galapagos Island is shaped like a seahorse from a top view? That sight makes you anticipate the marine delights you will find on Isabela Island, with its abundant wildlife and spectacular views. Welcome to the wonder that is Isabela Island Galapagos!
Located some 600 miles (965 kilometers) west of the Ecuadorian mainland, Isabela Island lies in the eastern Pacific Ocean at the center of the Galapagos cluster. Larger than all the Galapagos islands combined, it has a population of around 2,200.
Isabela’s diverse wildlife includes friendly sea lions, roving iguanas, 5 species of giant tortoises endemic to the island, and more.
With this article, learn more about this enchanting island blessed with natural marvels and scenic views and why it should be at the top of your Galapagos itinerary.
15 Things To Do in Isabela Island Galapagos
1. Bahia Urbina Visiting Site
The Bahia Urbina visiting site is the only spot in the archipelago where tortoises are a natural, intact population; they remain in the habitat where they were born.
The site is situated on the central west side of the island. All other sites have experienced migratory issues or issues with invasive non-native species.
2. Explore Punta Vicente Roca
Punta Vicente Roca lies on the northern side, the head, of this seahorse-shaped island.
It is an important, productive marine area being hit by the Cromwell Current’s deep, nutrient-rich ocean water flows from the Western Pacific, bringing food to the surface for Galápagos species. Because of this, Punta Vicente Roca has some of the most amazing marine species in the archipelago.
The famed flightless cormorant is almost everywhere at the Punta Vicente Roca visitor center. The behavior and surroundings of this species at this place provide evidence of their evolution.
During our visits, we also frequently encountered whales and sharks.
3. Take a Tour of El Muro de Las Lágrimas, El Estero, and Humedales
Taking a tour is the best way to enjoy a day in Isabela.
There are several stops along the 3-mile (5 kilometers) trail, each more stunning than the last. This route can be traveled on foot or, more quickly and conveniently, by renting a bicycle from $2-3 (hourly) to $12 (entire day).
The journey begins at the Muro de Las Lágrimas (Wall of Tears). On the way back to the port, you can stop at El Estero, a resting beach, before arriving at Playa del Amor, where you can watch the sunset or have a drink at Beto’s Bar.
4. Snorkel at Concha de Perla
A favorite activity and one of the best things to do on Isabela Island is snorkeling at Concha de Perla (Pearl Beach). It is an excellent snorkeling spot where swimmers and snorkelers can have a perfect view of everything happening in the quiet, crystal-clear waters.
Experience a wondrous time swimming with various tropical fish and snorkeling with turtles. The sea lions are another fantastic aspect of this place; they like playing in the water with visitors.
Sea lions often taunt their human swimming partners by swimming up to their faces and appearing to crash before scurrying away just in time.
5. Visit Los Diablos Lagoon
A main breeding ground for flamingos, Laguna de Los Diablos is the best place to view these delightful birds if you want to observe them in their natural habitat.
The Wetlands Complex, ideal for bird watching, is located not far from this location. Start in the Galapaguera, proceed via the flamingo pool, and when you exit, you’ll be close to the beach on the road that leads to the Wetlands.
6. Travel to Las Tintoreras
A group of islets known as Las Tintoreras is located near Isabela Island. The islets host an extensive range of unique marine species. Mangroves on one of the islands surround a beach, enabling marine iguanas to reproduce, as there are few places where they can do this.
Additionally, there are fantastic chances to see animals like marine turtles, penguins, and white-tipped reef sharks. The islets are typically reached via a panga (dinghy), which occasionally feels like a mini-adventure in and of itself.
Visitors frequently praise this excursion as among the best things to do on Isabela Island, especially considering the profusion of marine iguanas.
7. Isabela Highlands
Ascend to the highlands and enjoy a panoramic sight of Isabela Island’s port and surrounding islands.
You can view magnificent island lookouts at Mirador del Mango by bike, taxi, or group tour. You can also visit Cueva Sucre, a natural lava tunnel.
8. Take a Los Túneles Tour
The Los Túneles tour is for you if you want to snorkel with sea lions, sharks, and tortoises under lava tunnels. If you’re only going to do one excursion of Isabela, this should be it.
It features snorkeling and a breathtaking trek across Los Tuneles, where, if you’re lucky, you may witness blue-footed boobies doing their mating dance.
When we took the excursion, we could get so close to the blue-footed boobies, snorkel with white-tip sharks, and enjoy the beautiful landscapes.
9. Visit the Tortoise Breeding Center
Sometimes, visiting the breeding facility for tortoises is combined with a trip to Tintoreras. This activity is beneficial because it teaches much about the enormous Galapagos tortoises.
On Isabela Island, it is among the best activities for learning about conservation efforts.
10. Travel to Elizabeth Bay
Elizabeth Bay is home to some marine iguanas and a sizable colony of Galapagos penguins. Green turtles and white-tip sharks, for instance, are both visible here. There are several kinds of rays, such as golden and spotted eagle rays.
This bay is another great location for snorkeling or viewing the variety of aquatic life. Kayaking is also one of the most popular activities here, a great way to explore the area.
Visitors are not allowed to land at this lovely location west of Isabela Island, so you must travel there by dinghy.
11. Wall of Tears
Visiting the Wall of Tears, an allegedly haunted historical landmark is among the top historical activities on Isabela Island. After the Second World War, convicts were kept in a penal colony here for 14 years and forced to construct the 328-foot (100 meters) long, 65-foot (20 meters) high wall from lava rocks.
The Wall of Tears now memorializes the many people who perished building it since they labored in dangerous conditions.
12. Admire the Flamingo Lake
The stunning beauty of Flamingo Lake alone qualifies it as one of the top Isabela Island activities.
Due to the opportunity to witness these magnificent birds in all their glory, this is consistently ranked as one of the best things to do on Isabela Island.
13. Minas de Azufre
Minas de Azufre is a fantastic trekking option on Isabela Island. The hike from the foot of Sierra Negra Volcano to these sulfur mines, formerly in operation, is incredibly picturesque.
You can see several fascinating bird species, including martins, hawks, and paradise flycatchers. Birdwatching is often listed as one of the best things to do on Isabela Island for folks who enjoy being active.
14. Isabela Wetlands
The Isabela Wetlands, which are close to Puerto Villamil, rank among the top attractions in Isabela because of the fascinating variety of bird species that can be discovered there.
Many shorebirds reside in the wetlands, which consist of swamps, lagoons, and mangroves. You can also see other bird species, such as common stilts, whimbrels, and gallinules.
Bird watchers will undoubtedly find this activity among the top things to do on Isabela Island.
15. Visit Puerto Villamil
While most Isabela Island activities are centered on wildlife and geology, a trip to Puerto Villamil gives a lot of chances to amuse various demographics.
There are beautiful beaches, restaurants, and bars around the town where you may unwind and go souvenir shopping.
Where to Stay in Isabela Island Galapagos
La Gran Tortuga – Best Budget Option
Travel safely and have fun at La Gran Tortuga. They offer cozy lodging, air conditioning, en suite bathrooms, cable TV, WiFi, and tours. You can go on excursions to the Galapagos Tortoise Center, lava tunnels in the sea, bays, and volcanoes.
La Gran Tortuga charges less than $100, a perfect choice for those on a tight budget yet still desire comfort and cleanliness.
La Laguna Galapagos – Best Mid-Range Option
If you want a little bit of luxury with top-notch service, La Laguna Galapagos Hotel is a fantastic option with its cozy lodging, convenient amenities, breathtaking views, and terrific setting. It is ideal for resting and relaxing pleasantly while enjoying your Isabela Island holiday since it is close to the Flamingo Lagoon and only a few blocks from the beach.
Cormorant Beach House – Best Luxury Option
Cormorant Beach House is a great option for rest and renewal for visitors to Isabela. It is renowned for its picturesque setting and proximity to excellent dining establishments, making it simple to enjoy the finest of Isabela. One of the island’s oldest families, who highly value giving each guest individualized and attentive service, owns the hotel.
You’ll stay in comfortable rooms with air conditioning, en suite bathrooms, and a breathtaking ocean view. Reserve a room with a balcony to enjoy the mesmerizing sunsets.
The hotel provides free internet and breakfast in an adjacent building, and soon it will have an incredible rooftop where you can eat and enjoy a beautiful view.
For more accommodation options, you may click on the map.
How To Stay Safe and Enjoy During Your Stay In Isabela Island Galapagos?
During your visit to Isabela Island in the Galápagos, prioritize safety by adhering to local guidelines and maintaining respectful distances from wildlife. Employ reputable tour guides, and ensure you’re well-prepared with sun protection and hydration to safely enjoy the island’s unique biodiversity and landscapes.
Additionally, consider protecting yourself with travel insurance such as SafetyWing, which can cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen incidents during your stay. Use the widget below to snag the perfect policy for your needs and travel with peace of mind knowing you’ve got your back covered, no matter what adventures come your way!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Isabela Island
What Are the Galapagos Islands?
These 19 islands and the adjacent marine reserve are located in the Pacific Ocean, around 621 miles (1,000 kilometers) from the South American continent. The Galápagos Islands are a “melting pot” of marine species because they are situated where three ocean currents converge.
The processes that created the islands are still visible in the ongoing seismic and volcanic activity. These processes, coupled with the island’s extreme isolation, contributed to the evolution of unusual animal life, including the land iguana, giant tortoise, and numerous species of finch, which, after Charles Darwin’s visit in 1835, served as inspiration for his theory of evolution by natural selection.
What Is Special About Isabela Island?
Isabela Island is the largest landmass in Galapagos. It’s difficult to top its diverse fauna and volcanic landscapes.
Excellent diving, trekking, and snorkeling are available. Isabela is a great place to unwind.
How Do I Get To Isabela Galapagos Islands?
Since there are no direct flights to Isabela Island, you have to take another flight upon arrival in Ecuador. Coming from either Quito or Guayaquil, you have 2 options.
You can head to Baltra Island, then after a bus ride to Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island, take a ferry to Punta Villamil, Isabela Island’s port.
Another way is to fly to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno on San Cristobal Island, then you can either take a plane or a ferry to Punta Villamil.
How Many People Live on Isabela Galapagos?
While approximately 25,000 people live in the entire Galapagos archipelago, Isabela’s population is around 2,200, mostly concentrated in Puerto Villamil.
These residents welcome visitors and rely on fishing and tourism.
Conclusion – Isabela Island Galapagos
With Isabela Island’s awe-inspiring landscapes, epic snorkeling spots, diverse ecosystems, and spectacular wildlife, only its size and the distance between its numerous attractions make it one of the Galapagos’ least visited islands.
So, make Isabela Island your next stop if you want a less crowded and touristy destination where you can leisurely experience nature’s wonders.
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Related reads:
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Founder of Spark Nomad, Radical FIRE, Copywriter
Expertise: Personal finance and travel content. I’m a full-time traveler, and I’ve been to 49 countries and 5 continents.
Education: Bachelor of Economics at Radboud University, Master in Finance at Radboud University, Minor in Economics at Chapman University.
Over 200 articles, essays, and short stories published across the web.
Marjolein Dilven is a journalist and founder of Spark Nomad, a travel platform, and Radical FIRE, a personal finance platform. Marjolein has a finance and economics background with a master’s in Finance. She has quit her job to travel the world, documenting her travels on Spark Nomad to help people plan their travels. Marjolein Dilven has written for publications like MSN, Associated Press, CNBC, Town News syndicate, and more.