Top 5 Must-Do Day Tours in Isabela Island, Galápagos
- roytupiza28
- Dec 8, 2024
- 7 min read
Isabela Island, the largest and most diverse of the Galápagos Islands, offers a paradise for adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. Whether you want to snorkel alongside sea turtles, hike active volcanoes, or discover unique marine life, Isabela has it all. With its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes, the island is home to unforgettable day tours that showcase its natural wonders.
As a travel enthusiast who recently had the opportunity to visit Isabela, I can confidently say that it was one of the most unforgettable trips of my life. I went on several day tours with Whale Shark Dive Center and discovered the island in ways I never thought possible. Below, we’ll dive into the top five must-do day tours on the island, where adventure and awe are guaranteed. From volcanic hikes to underwater safaris, there’s something for every kind of traveler.
Snorkeling at Los Tuneles (Lava Tunnels): A Marine Wonderland
When I first heard about the Lava Tunnels (Los Tuneles), I had no idea what to expect. I’ve snorkeled before, but nothing could have prepared me for the unique underwater experience this tour offered. Located on Isabela’s western coast, El Finado at Los Tuneles is one of the best snorkeling spots in the Galápagos. The tunnels are a natural wonder that was formed by ancient lava flows that created a series of tunnels and arches both above and below the water. The crystal-clear waters, the fascinating lava formations, and the abundance of marine life made this tour a highlight of my trip.
The tour started early in the morning, but you could also go mid-day, and after a short boat ride, we arrived at the tunnels. As soon as we jumped into the water, we were greeted by a sea turtle gliding gracefully beneath us. The knowledgeable guide from Whale Shark Dive Center pointed out several species, including eagle rays, seahorses, and even a few white-tip sharks that were resting in the mangroves. Swimming through the ancient lava flows was surreal; it felt like entering another world.
Tip: If you love marine life, this tour is an absolute must. Bring a waterproof camera because you’ll want to capture the incredible sea creatures and the stunning lava formations. Snorkeling at Los Tuneles is ideal for both beginners and experienced snorkelers alike, and the tour guides are highly experienced, ensuring a safe and unforgettable experience.
Hiking Sierra Negra: A Volcanic Adventure
A visit to Isabela Island isn’t complete without hiking the iconic Sierra Negra Volcano. This active volcano boasts the second-largest crater in the world, offering sweeping views that extend across the island. It’s an experience that combines adventure, geological marvels, and a glimpse into the island’s volcanic origins.
The tour started with a drive from Puerto Villamil to the trailhead, where our guide briefed us on the hike ahead. The initial part of the trail took us through lush, tropical vegetation, and we could hear the songs of Darwin’s finches and the occasional rustle of a giant tortoise moving through the brush.
As we climbed higher, the landscape changed dramatically. The greenery gave way to a more arid, volcanic terrain, and soon, we reached the rim of the Sierra Negra crater. The view was jaw-dropping—the crater stretches nearly 10 kilometers in diameter and has a circumference of 26 kilometers in total, and from its edge, you can see the dark, jagged lava fields below. Our guide explained that the last eruption was in 2018, and the lava flow from that event is still visible today.
We continued hiking along the rim until we reached the Chico volcano, a smaller but equally fascinating crater with fumaroles and colorful lava formations. The entire hike took about 4-5 hours, and though it was tough at times, the panoramic views and the feeling of standing on an active volcano made every step worthwhile.
Tip: If you’re up for a challenge, this hike is a must. Be sure to wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring plenty of water. The terrain can be rough, especially as you get closer to the crater, but the views are worth the effort. For nature lovers and geology enthusiasts, hiking Sierra Negra is an unforgettable way to experience the raw power of the Galápagos’ volcanic origins.
Exploring the Sulfur Mines: A Journey into History
One of the most memorable tours I took was to the Sulfur Mines of Sierra Negra. This tour offers a unique journey into the history and natural beauty of Isabela Island. Located on the slopes of Sierra Negra, the sulfur mines give visitors a chance to explore an intriguing and rarely seen side of the Galápagos.
The adventure begins with a scenic drive from Puerto Villamil to the highlands, where we started the hike. Along the way, we passed through lush forests and spotted endemic species such as the Galápagos Hawk and various finches. As we approached the sulfur mines, the terrain shifted dramatically to sulfuric fields dotted with fumaroles and strange rock formations. The ground is covered in yellow, orange, and white sulfur deposits, giving the area an almost otherworldly feel.
Our guide told us more about the history of the once-important mining site, where workers extracted sulfur for industrial use. Standing in the sulfuric fields, surrounded by fumaroles and volcanic rock, I couldn’t help but feel like I was walking on the surface of another planet.
At the rim of Sierra Negra, we were rewarded with panoramic views stretching from the southern to the northern tip of Isabela. This is the perfect spot for photos and a moment of reflection as you take in the volcanic power that shaped the island.
Tip: If you’re interested in the lesser-known history of the Galápagos, this tour is a fascinating option. I thought it seemed a bit less popular than the longer volcano hike but the unique landscape and historical significance make it well worth the visit.
Boat Safari: Whale Watching and Manta Rays
One of the most thrilling tours I took was the boat safari along Isabela’s coastline. From June to October, the waters around the island are home to migrating humpback whales, and seeing these majestic creatures up close was a dream come true. The tour started with a long cruise all around the coast to the north-west, where we spotted sea turtles, manta rays, various unique birds and sea lions playing in the wake of our boat.
The volcanic formations along the coast provide a dramatic backdrop, adding to the thrill of cruising the open seas. This trip includes several opportunities for snorkeling, allowing you to dive into a more remote marine paradise that surrounds Isabela.
The absolute highlight of the tour came when a humpback whale breached right in front of us, creating a splash that seemed to shake the entire boat. Our amazing tour guide from Whale Shark Dive Center mentioned that these whales travel from the cold waters of Antarctica to the warmer waters of the Galápagos to give birth, and the area around Isabela is one of the best places in the world to see them.
And shortly after, we even witnessed a small pod of orcas swimming gracefully next to the boat, which definitely added an extra layer of excitement to the journey. I heard whenever the situation arises groups that are comfortable are even given the chance to jump in the water with the whales and snorkel with them.
Tip: If you’re visiting Isabela between June and October, don’t miss the chance to go on a whale-watching safari. Although even outside of whale season, the boat safari is a fantastic way to see unique birds and marine life and take in the stunning volcanic landscapes of the Galápagos far away from any civilization.
Tintoreras Islet: Tranquil Beauty and Wildlife Encounters
After several days of adventure, I was ready for a more relaxed tour, and the Tintoreras Islet tour was just what I needed. For those generally looking for a more relaxed yet equally mesmerizing adventure, this tour is perfect. Located just off the coast of Puerto Villamil, Tintoreras is a group of small islets that are home to a wide variety of marine life. The area gets its name from the Tintoreras (white-tip reef sharks) that frequent the shallow waters.
The tour began with a short boat ride from Isabela’s port to the islets, where we already spotted marine iguanas basking on the black lava rocks and sea lions lounging in the sun. Once there, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the volcanic formations and observe the fascinating wildlife. The calm waters around Tintoreras are ideal for watching sea lions, iguanas, and of course, the famous white-tip sharks resting in the shallow channels. The black lava rocks provide a stunning contrast to the turquoise waters, creating the perfect setting for photos.
The highlight of the tour was snorkeling in the calm, shallow waters around the islets. We saw white-tip reef sharks (also known as “Tintoreras”) resting in the channels between the rocks, and our guide explained that this is one of the best places in the Galápagos to see these sharks up close. The water was so clear that we could see schools of colorful fish swimming beneath us, and we even spotted a few penguins darting through the water.
Tip: If you’re looking for a relaxing but wildlife-rich tour, Tintoreras is a great option. The islets are close to town, so the tour doesn’t take up a full day, making it perfect for travelers who want a shorter adventure. Be sure to bring your camera because the wildlife sightings are incredible.
Endless opportunities
Isabela Island is a true gem of the Galápagos, offering adventures that range from challenging hikes to serene snorkeling tours. My experience exploring the island with Whale Shark Dive Center was nothing short of magical, and I can’t recommend their tours enough. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a nature lover, Isabela has something for everyone.
To make the most of your trip, book a tour with Whale Shark Dive Center and discover the best of Isabela for yourself. From snorkeling at Los Tuneles to whale watching along the coast, the island offers unforgettable experiences that will leave you in awe.
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