The magnificent Isabela Island packs the best of Galapagos into its shores. My favorite tours here cut straight to the action: The Wetlands Tour combines stunning ecosystems with historic sites like the Wall of Tears, while the 5-Day Classic gets you up close with wildlife across 19 islands. For pure excitement, don’t miss Tintoreras Bay, where you’ll spot sea turtles, rays, and maybe even white-tipped reef sharks. The Sierra Negra Volcano hike and Lava Tunnels excursion showcase the raw volcanic terrain that shaped these islands. Each tour includes expert naturalist guides who know exactly where to find the good stuff. Let’s explore the top tours you won’t want to miss.
Good To Know
The Full Day Lava Tunnels Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Isabela Island’s volcanic and underwater landscapes, including snorkeling in vibrant marine ecosystems.
The Sierra Negra Volcano Walking Tour provides a 4-hour hike along the crater rim, offering stunning views and insights into the island’s geology and flora/fauna.
The 3-hour Tour to Tintoreras Bay features diverse wildlife sightings, including blue-footed boobies and sea turtles, with a flexible cancellation policy.
The 5 Day Classic Isabela Island Tour showcases 19 Galapagos Islands, with activities such as snorkeling, swimming, and hiking, led by a local naturalist guide.
The Wetlands Tour with Wall of Tears, operated by Perfect Destiny, offers a 5.0-rated experience with a professional guide, hotel pickup, and a box lunch.
Wetlands Tour With Wall of Tears From Isabela Island
The Wetlands Tour with Wall of Tears from Isabela Island, Ecuador, is an immersive experience operated by Perfect Destiny. Priced from $271.00 per person, this tour accommodates a maximum of 15 travelers, with a 5.0 rating based on one review.
The tour includes a professional guide, hotel pickup, box lunch and breakfast, transportation to the PNG entry point, and bicycles provided throughout the tour. Pickup options are available from the hotel lobby or a designated meeting point, with the tour ending back at the meeting location.
Starting at 7:00 PM, the tour involves travel by boat, so participants should plan for potential motion sickness. Confirmed bookings can be canceled up to 24 hours before the experience, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.
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5 Day Classic Isabela Island Tour
A 5-day, 4-night Classic Isabela Island Tour offers visitors an immersive experience exploring the Galapagos Islands. The tour includes accommodations, meals, and transportation, allowing travelers to focus on the natural wonders of 19 islands that inspired Darwin’s theory of evolution.
Activities like snorkeling, swimming, and hiking provide opportunities to observe diverse wildlife, including giant tortoises, iguanas, colorful fish, dolphins, and finches.
The tour includes a local naturalist guide who provides commentary in English and Spanish, as well as 24/7 assistance. While the flights to and from mainland Ecuador aren’t included, the package covers airport pickup/drop-off, transfers between Baltra Airport and Itabaca Channel, and the Galapagos National Park entrance fee.
Travelers should be prepared for potential changes in the itinerary and bring appropriate gear for the activities. Reviews indicate a mixed response, with some highlighting the natural beauty and efficient organization, while others note hidden costs and communication issues.
Read our full review: 5 Day Classic Isabela Island Tour Review
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Tour to Tintoreras Bay From Isabela Island
Visitors exploring Isabela Island in the Galapagos have the opportunity to embark on a captivating 3-hour tour of Tintoreras Bay. The tour, offered as a group excursion, provides the chance to witness an array of fascinating wildlife, including blue-footed boobies, sea turtles, and iguanas.
Included in the tour are hotel pickup, use of snorkeling and SCUBA equipment, and a provided lunch. The experienced, bilingual guide leads the water-based tour, sharing insights and knowledge throughout the journey.
With a maximum group size of 10 travelers, the tour offers an intimate experience. Advanced booking is recommended to secure a spot, as the tour has a capacity limit of 15 people.
Flexible cancellation policies, with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, provide added convenience. While the tour isn’t suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions, it welcomes children when accompanied by an adult.
With an overall rating of 4.0 from 4 reviews, the Tour to Tintoreras Bay from Isabela Island is a highly recommended option for nature enthusiasts visiting the Galapagos.
Read our full review: Tour to Tintoreras Bay From Isabela Island Review
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Sierra Negra Volcano Walking Tour in Isabela Island
One of the must-do activities for visitors to Isabela Island is the Sierra Negra Volcano Walking Tour. This 4-hour tour allows travelers to hike along the crater rim of the Sierra Negra volcano, which last erupted in 2005.
Led by a knowledgeable local guide, the tour provides insights into the island’s geology and volcanic processes. Participants can observe the diverse flora and fauna found in the area.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, and the meeting point is in Puerto Villamil. Groups are limited to a maximum of 15 travelers.
While the tour isn’t recommended for those with medical conditions, back problems, or pregnant women, moderate physical fitness is required. The tour receives positive reviews from travelers, who appreciate the stunning views and the guide’s expertise.
However, some note that the hike to Boca Chica is less rewarding. Scheduling flexibility is also appreciated by visitors.
Read our full review: Sierra Negra Volcano Walking Tour in Isabela Island Review
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Full Day Lava Tunnels Tour From Isabela Island
Travelers exploring Isabela Island can embark on a captivating Full Day Lava Tunnels Tour that showcases the island’s volcanic and underwater wonders.
Guests will explore these awe-inspiring landscapes in small groups of up to 10 people, led by a professional guide. The tour includes snorkeling amidst a vibrant marine ecosystem, where they’ll encounter seahorses, sea turtles, and eagle rays.
Visitors will also observe unique wildlife like pelicans and Nazca boobies at Roca Unnion. The excursion includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as snorkeling equipment and a complimentary box lunch.
While breakfast and additional food/drinks aren’t included, wet suits are available for rent. The tour departs from the Puerto Villamil dock and ends at the same location, providing a seamless experience.
With a lowest price guarantee, this full-day adventure offers travelers an unforgettable opportunity to enjoy Isabela Island’s captivating natural wonders.
Read our full review: Full Day Lava Tunnels Tour From Isabela Island Review
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Wetlands Walking Tour in Isabela Island
The Wetlands Walking Tour on Isabela Island provides an intimate glimpse into the island’s diverse flora and fauna. Led by a professional guide, guests explore scenic trails, spotting curlews, flamingos, and Galapagos tortoises.
Ideal for families, the small-group tour accommodates a maximum of 15 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.
The tour includes hotel pickup within the urban perimeter of Puerto Villamil, as well as breakfast and lunch. Participants will also enjoy transport to and from the meeting point, which can be either the hotel lobby or the designated location of Las Fragatas in Puerto Villamil.
The tour starts at 9:30 AM and returns to the meeting point.
Confirmation is provided upon booking, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible. Children must be accompanied by an adult, and participants should prepare for boat travel by considering motion sickness medication.
The tour is priced at $89 per person, with a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts.
Read our full review: Wetlands Walking Tour in Isabela Island Review
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Sierra Negra Volcano Hiking in Isabela: 5-6 Hours Day Tour
For those seeking a more adventurous excursion on Isabela Island, the Sierra Negra Volcano Hiking tour offers an exhilarating opportunity to explore one of the Galapagos’ most active volcanoes.
This 5-6 hour guided hike, operated by Latin Adventures Cía Ltda, allows groups of up to 15 people to experience the world’s second-largest volcanic crater and enjoy the island’s unique volcanic landscapes.
The tour includes a certified naturalist guide, who provides commentary in English and Spanish, as well as a provided lunch.
Travelers will be picked up from their hotel or a designated meeting point and transported to the trailhead. Along the way, they can expect to observe native wildlife and marvel at the dramatic volcanic scenery.
While the tour isn’t suitable for individuals with heart problems or serious medical conditions, most travelers can participate.
Advance booking is recommended, as this excursion is non-refundable and confirmation is provided at the time of booking.
Read our full review: Sierra Negra Volcano Hiking in Isabela: 5-6 Hours Day Tour Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Isabela Island?
The best time to visit Isabela Island is during the dry season, which typically runs from June to November. This is when the weather is sunny and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
How Accessible Are the Tours for People With Disabilities?
The accessibility of tours on Isabela Island varies. Some offer wheelchair-friendly options, while others may have limited accessibility. It’s best to inquire about specific tour accommodations when booking to ensure a comfortable experience for visitors with disabilities.
Can I Customize the Tours to Fit My Interests?
Yes, most tour operators in the area offer customizable tour options so visitors can tailor the experience to their specific interests and needs. Travelers can work with the tour company to design a personalized itinerary.
What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for the Tours?
Most tour companies offer flexible cancellation and refund policies. Typically, customers can cancel or modify their bookings with a full or partial refund up to 24-48 hours before the scheduled tour. It’s best to check each company’s specific policies.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tours?
Many tour providers have age restrictions for certain activities to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants. It’s best to check with the specific tour company about their age requirements before booking.
The Sum Up
Isabela Island offers a diverse range of captivating tours showcasing its natural wonders. From exploring the Wetlands and the iconic Wall of Tears to hiking the Sierra Negra Volcano and delving into lava tunnels, these excursions provide visitors with unforgettable experiences. Whether one’s interests lie in wildlife, geology, or outdoor adventure, Isabela Island‘s tour options cater to a variety of preferences, ensuring an enriching and memorable exploration of this Galapagos gem.