Isabela Island Extension Itinerary

Bienvenido a las Islas Galapagos! Arrive in Santa Cruz where a speedboat whisks the tour off to the Galapagos’ largest island – Isabela. Formed by six merging volcanoes, five of which are still active, the silhouette of Isabela roughly resembles that of a seahorse. The unique ecosystem on Isabela means it has distinctly different flora and fauna to all of the other Galapagos Islands. Experience some of the natural wonders of Isabela by taking a trip to the Flamingo Lagoon, the largest coastal lagoon in the Galapagos and one of the main reproductive sites for flamingos.

Wake early to hike up the second largest volcano in the world and one of the most active in the Galapagos, Sierra Negra - getting to know the lay of the land along the way. Stroll past endemic Galapagos plant and wildlife and continue on to the Volcan Chino, taking in the view over lunch. Grab bathers and take the opportunity to go snorkelling or swimming in the crystal-clear waters of Concha Perla, where colourful fish, urchins, starfish, sea lions and even sea turtles help create the vibrant tapestry of this underwater world. If they’re in a good mood, sea lions may even splash around in the calm bay, displaying a mischievous side similar to that of playful puppies. A visit to the Giant Tortoise Breeding Center provides a fantastic opportunity to get to know more about these fascinating creatures, exclusive to the Galapagos, and even get up close with a couple of the residents. The Wall of Tears, a shrine to dark times in the Galapagos’ history when the islands were used as a penal colony, provides a somber point of reflection. Prisoners were made to build the wall using rock from surrounding hills for no other reason than to punish them and keep them busy. Eerily, locals claim to be able hear cries of those that lost their lives working in these extremely harsh conditions. A sail to Tintoreras Island – a deep crevice boasting clear and calm waters - reveals an underwater paradise with white-tip reef sharks, penguins, sea lions and marine iguanas all calling it home.

An early morning trip back to Puerto Ayora signals the end of this adventure on Isabela Island. Perhaps plan to visit Ecuador for some more South American exploration.