A Guide to visiting Isabela Island - Galapagos.

Isabela Island is the largest and one of the most fascinating islands in the Galápagos archipelago. It was formed by the merging of six volcanoes, some of which are still active today. If you are looking for a place to explore the natural wonders and wildlife of the Galápagos, Isabela Island is a great destination. But how can you get there?

Isabella island is a 2 hour ferry journey from Puerta Ayeora in Santa Cruz. These ferries cost about $35US. The seas tend to be rough on these journeys so sitting at the back is advised, however this is also where you will get the wettest. Alternatively, anti sickness tablets. might also help if you are prone to motion sickness.

One thing to note is that there is an entrance fee on to the island at the port, that is not advertised until you get there, and only cash is accepted. We didn’t know this, and we had to leave our passports with the port officers while we went to an ATM in the town.

The main town of Isabella, Puerto Villamil, is a short taxi ride from the port. Its in walking distance, but with bags, I would advise a taxi.

Whether you want to go all out on accommodation, or on a budget like us, there is so much choice for accommodation on Isabela. We booked to stay at Poseda Del Caminante, a small hostel with both private rooms and dorms. It is outside the town centre, but only a short walk. Its cheap, around $75 a night for a double room with a private bathroom, and basic, but clean and it was perfect for our needs.

As it is the largest Island in the Galapagos Archipelago, there is so much variety of things to do on Isabella!

Wall of Tears

Visiting the Wall of Tears, or El Muro de las Lágrimas in Spanish, is a popular activity to do while on the island. It is about a two hour walk from Puerto Villamil, but if you rent a bike there, it will half your journey.

The history of the Wall is a dark one. It was built in the 1940s and 1950s by prisoners who were sent to the island, and it had no real purpose. It is said that it took the lives of many of the prisoners, and its name comes from the literal tears that were shed during its construction.

The bike route to the wall is a beautiful one, as you pass many beaches, lava formations and mangrove paths along the way. You can also spot a variety of wildlife, from Iguanas to tortoises and birds. But be careful while cycling, they like to chill on the pathways!

Las Tintoreras

Las tintoreras, named after the white tipped reef shark, is one of the most visited places on Isabella Island. The small inlet can be visited on a day trip, as part of your cruise itinerary or on a Kayak tour. We chose the Kayak tour, spending a few hours paddling around the inlets with a tour guide, taking time to snorkel at various spots.

On this tour you have the chance to spot various marine life, from Iguanas, to White Tipped reef sharks, and even the Galapagos penguins, who can only be found on Isabela and Fernandina Islands. Unfortunately we didn’t get to see any sharks on the day, but we did get to pass by a penguin colony.

Concha Perla

Concha de Perla, or Pearl shell, is in walking distance from Puerta Villamil, just by the port. As you get close to the pearl, you will begin a short but beautiful walk down a boardwalk, through the mangroves, before being arriving at the most beautiful tourquise lagoon, surrounded by a mangrove forest, perfect for snorkeling.

Flamingo Lagoon

Adding to the list of amazing animals you can come across on Isabela island flamingos at Laguna de los Flamingos, or Flamingo Lagoon. Located to the west of the island, the best way to get there is by renting a bike. I would advise to visit the lagoon at sunrise or early in the morning, to have the best chance to get a view of the flamingos, along with many other fascinating bird species.

Sierra Negra Volcano

The Galapagos Islands were formed from volcanic eruptions, so it is not a surprise to know that you can still visit some volcanos on your trip. Sierra Negra Volcano is located 13 miles (21km) from Puerta Villamil, and is home to the world’s second largest volcanic crater. You can take day tours to the volcano, which involves hiking for a few hours to the crater, but the panoramic views of the island from the peak are worth it. The volcano is still active, having last erupted in 2018.

Isabela island has so much variety of things to offer, from Lava Tunnels, to turquoise lagoons, to an abundance of wildlife to see. The seahorse shaped island is definitely one we would recommend visiting on your trip to the archipelago.