Tucked away on Isabela Island, Puerto Villamil stands out as the Galapagos’ prime launching point for unforgettable nature encounters. I absolutely love the Tuneles & Cabo Rosa snorkel trip – it’s the closest you’ll get to swimming in an aquarium, with sea turtles and reef sharks gliding right past you. The Sierra Negra Volcano hike packs a punch too, offering jaw-dropping views after a moderately challenging trek. For families and first-timers, the Tintoreras Islet tour is perfect – expect to see playful sea lions, marine iguanas, and maybe even white-tipped reef sharks in crystal-clear waters.
What makes these tours special is their small group size and excellent English-speaking guides who know exactly where to spot wildlife. These natural encounters work well for both adventurous travelers and those who prefer a gentler pace.
Let’s explore the best tours Puerto Villamil has to offer.
Good To Know
The Cabo Rosa Tunnels Guided Hike offers insights into volcanic geology and allows visitors to observe diverse marine life through snorkeling.
The Sierra Negra Volcano Hike provides panoramic views and an opportunity to explore the island’s unique flora, led by knowledgeable local guides.
Tintoreras Islet Tour combines hiking and snorkeling to encounter a variety of Galapagos wildlife, including white-tip sharks, sea lions, and penguins.
Private Los Tuneles Snorkel Tour offers close encounters with marine life such as swimming iguanas, sea lions, lobsters, and sea snakes.
The 5-day Galapagos Tour, operated by Latin Adventures, includes the highlights of Cabo Rosa and Sierra Negra Volcano, with accommodations and meals.
Tour to Tuneles & Cabo Rosa (Isabela Island)
Although the Tour to Tuneles & Cabo Rosa on Isabela Island is one of Puerto Villamil’s most popular excursions, it’s not just for the average tourist.
With a 90% traveler recommendation and an overall rating of 4.6 out of 10 reviews, this tour offers an immersive experience that allows visitors to get up close with the island’s diverse marine life.
Priced at $250 per person, the tour includes lunch, snacks, towels, and the use of snorkeling equipment.
Pickup from hotels is provided, with the process taking 20-30 minutes. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions, most travelers can participate.
The highlights of the tour include close encounters with blue-footed boobies and the opportunity to snorkel with sea lions, turtles, penguins, and other marine creatures.
Positive feedback on the tour’s guides and the quality of the provided lunch further enhances the overall experience.
Read our full review: Tour to Tuneles & Cabo Rosa (Isabela Island) Review
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Isabela Island Private Los Tuneles Snorkel Tour – Puerto Villamil
The Isabela Island Private Los Tuneles Snorkel Tour from Puerto Villamil allows visitors to explore the remarkable natural wonder of Los Túneles. Rated 4.7 out of 5 based on 7 reviews, this private tour offers a personalized experience to snorkel in the unique underwater tunnels and observe a diverse array of marine life, including swimming iguanas, sea lions, lobsters, and sea snakes.
Priced from $200 per person, the tour includes snorkeling equipment, snacks on the boat, and an English-speaking naturalist guide who shares insights into the local ecosystem.
Travelers can also spot iconic Galápagos species like blue-footed boobies and flamingoes during the excursion. While wetsuits are available for an additional $10 per person, visitors are responsible for their own valid travel and medical insurance.
The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions. Confirmation is provided at booking, but the itinerary may change due to weather, availability, or regulations, and no refunds are offered for cancellations.
Read our full review: Isabela Island Private Los Tuneles Snorkel Tour – Puerto Villamil Review
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Excursion to Sierra Negra Volcano: A Thrilling Journey
Embarking on a thrilling day-long adventure, visitors can explore the Sierra Negra Volcano from Puerto Villamil on Isabela Island. This 9.4-mile (15 km) hike through the Galapagos’ diverse flora and fauna promises an unforgettable experience.
The gradual and easy slopes, though occasionally rocky, make the trek accessible to those with moderate physical fitness.
Upon arrival at the San Vicente Hotel, travelers can prepare their box lunches according to their preferences. A local naturalist guide will then lead the group, providing transportation to the hiking area. Snacks and gratuities are included, ensuring a hassle-free journey.
The tour isn’t recommended for those with back problems, pregnant individuals, or children under 5 years old. Confirmation is subject to availability, and a maximum of 16 travelers are allowed per tour.
With an overall rating of 5.0 based on 2 reviews, this excursion promises amazing experiences, knowledgeable guides, and stunning views of the Sierra Negra Volcano.
Read our full review: Excursion to Sierra Negra Volcano: A Thrilling Journey Review
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Tintoreras Islet Tour From Isabela – Hiking & Snorkeling in Galapagos Islands
Offering a short yet immersive adventure, the Tintoreras Islet Tour from Isabela promises visitors a chance to witness the Galapagos Islands‘ diverse marine life through hiking and snorkeling.
Located in Puerto Villamil, Ecuador, this Latin Adventures Cía Ltda tour lasts a few hours and costs $108 per person. Groups are capped at 15 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience led by a certified naturalist guide.
The main highlights include exploring the coral reefs of Las Tintoreras, known for their white-tip sharks, and snorkeling alongside sea lions, marine turtles, and blue-footed boobies.
Hiking opportunities allow you to spot penguins, iguanas, and other wildlife. Lunch and snorkeling equipment are included, and hotel pickup and drop-off in Isabela Island provide hassle-free logistics.
With positive reviews praising the knowledgeable guides and exceptional wildlife encounters, the Tintoreras Islet Tour offers an unforgettable way to learn about the natural wonders of the Galapagos Islands.
Read our full review: Tintoreras Islet Tour From Isabela – Hiking & Snorkeling in Galapagos Islands Review
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Isabela Island Wetlands Walking Tour
For those seeking a serene exploration of Isabela Island’s natural wonders, the Isabela Island Wetlands Walking Tour provides a captivating 3-hour experience.
Departing from Puerto Villamil, this guided tour immerses visitors in the island’s rugged volcanic terrain and diverse wildlife. Highlights include sightings of flamingos, land turtles, and various bird species that thrive in the island’s wetlands.
The tour also features a visit to Isabela’s first cemetery, where ancient tombs offer a glimpse into the island’s rich history.
Included in the tour are pickup and drop-off service, a local guide, and snacks.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and not recommended for travelers with certain medical conditions, it’s suitable for children accompanied by adults.
Participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes, bring water, and apply sunblock.
Based on the reviews, this tour receives an average rating of 2.3 out of 5 stars, with no 5-star, 4-star, or 3-star reviews.
Read our full review: Isabela Island Wetlands Walking Tour Review
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Half-Day Private Tour in Sierra Negra Volcanos Sulfur Fumaroles
Departing from Puerto Villamil, the Half-Day Private Tour in Sierra Negra Volcano‘s Sulfur Fumaroles offers an exclusive exploration of the island’s volcanic wonders.
Operated by the CORAL BLANCO TOUR OPERATOR, this tour takes visitors on a journey through the Sierra Negra Volcano, where they can witness the mesmerizing sight of sulfur fumaroles.
Priced at $200 per person, the tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, a box lunch, and gratuities.
The tour isn’t recommended for those with back problems, heart issues, or other serious medical conditions, as it requires a moderate level of physical fitness.
Visitors won’t be able to access the tour in a wheelchair.
With a total of one review and a 5.0-star rating, the tour has received positive feedback from previous participants.
Read our full review: Half-Day Private Tour in Sierra Negra Volcanos Sulfur Fumaroles Review
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5-Day Galapagos Tour Isabela Highlights – Cabo Rosa & Sierra Negra Volcano
Travelers seeking an immersive Galapagos experience in Isabela can embark on the 5-Day Galapagos Isabela Tour, which showcases the island’s iconic highlights – Cabo Rosa and the Sierra Negra Volcano.
Operated by Latin Adventures Cía Ltda, this comprehensive tour accommodates a maximum of 12 travelers and is priced from €1,640.65 per person, with no refunds for cancellations.
The tour includes a certified English/Spanish-speaking guide, 4 nights of accommodation, 4 breakfasts and 4 lunches, snorkeling equipment, and a wetsuit.
Transportation via speed boat between Santa Cruz and Isabela is provided, along with the pier fee in Isabela. While the Galapagos National Park entrance fee, transit control card, and water taxi are excluded, the tour covers the essential tips.
The tour departs at 8:00 am, with pickup points available. Confirmation is received at booking, and the tour is suitable for most travelers, though it isn’t wheelchair accessible.
This Galapagos Isabela Tour offers an exceptional opportunity to explore the island’s natural wonders.
Read our full review: 5-Day Galapagos Tour Isabela Highlights – Cabo Rosa & Sierra Negra Volcano Review
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Cabo Rosa (Tuneles) Hiking & Snorkeling Tour From Isabela
Situated along the volcanic coastline of Puerto Villamil, the Cabo Rosa (Tuneles) Hiking and Snorkeling Tour offers visitors an opportunity to explore the island’s unique geological formations and diverse marine life.
This small-group experience, operated by Latin Adventures Cía Ltda, takes travelers on a guided hike through the Cabo Rosa tunnels, where they can learn about the area’s volcanic geology. Along the lava platforms, guests can observe the island’s wildlife, including manta rays, seahorses, penguins, sea turtles, and blue-footed boobies.
The tour includes snorkeling amidst the marine life, with the chance to spot a variety of species. Participants receive a boxed lunch and use of snorkeling equipment, as well as the services of a certified naturalist guide who can provide insights in both English and Spanish.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate. Reviewers have praised the guide’s performance and photo-sharing, though some have noted the description could be misleading regarding snorkeling in the tunnels.
Read our full review: Cabo Rosa (Tuneles) Hiking & Snorkeling Tour From Isabela Review
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5-Day Galapagos Hotel-based Tour in San Cristobal Island
This 5-day hotel-based tour in San Cristobal Island provides an immersive exploration of the Galapagos’ iconic landscapes and diverse wildlife.
Based in Puerto Villamil, Ecuador, the tour includes 4 nights of accommodation and is limited to a maximum of 12 travelers.
Led by professional naturalist guides fluent in English and Spanish, the itinerary encompasses all the key activities in the islands.
Snorkeling equipment is provided, and 24-hour assistance is available.
The tour package covers 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and the $100 Galapagos National Park entrance fee.
It also includes flight organization assistance to and from the Galapagos.
While tips, personal expenses, and travel insurance are excluded, this comprehensive offering starts from £1,166.54 per person.
Guests should note the non-refundable policy and pack appropriately, as the tour operates in all weather conditions.
With its small group size and immersive nature-based experiences, this Galapagos tour promises an unforgettable adventure.
Read our full review: 5-Day Galapagos Hotel-based Tour in San Cristobal Island Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Puerto Villamil?
The best time to visit Puerto Villamil is typically during the dry season, which runs from June to November. Temperatures are mild, and the chance of rain is lower, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploring the island’s natural wonders.
Are There Any Accessibility Options for Disabled Travelers?
Puerto Villamil offers several accessible options for disabled travelers. There are wheelchair-friendly trails, ramps, and transportation services available to ensure a comfortable and inclusive experience. Visitors should research accessibility details prior to their trip to plan accordingly.
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Fit My Interests?
Yes, many tour operators allow travelers to customize their itinerary to accommodate personal interests. This flexibility ensures the tour aligns with the visitor’s preferences, making the experience more engaging and memorable.
What Should I Pack for a Visit to the Galapagos Islands?
When visiting the Galapagos Islands, one should pack sun protection, sturdy walking shoes, lightweight layers, a swimsuit, binoculars, and a camera to capture the unique wildlife and landscapes. It’s also wise to bring any necessary medications and snacks or water.
Do the Tours Offer Any Wildlife Spotting Guarantees?
Most Galapagos tours don’t offer wildlife spotting guarantees, as the animals’ movements are unpredictable. However, experienced guides usually know the best spots to maximize the chances of seeing diverse species like giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and blue-footed boobies.
The Sum Up
Puerto Villamil on Isabela Island offers a variety of captivating tours. Visitors can explore the island’s unique geological features like the Tuneles, Sierra Negra Volcano, and Tintoreras Islet. These excursions provide opportunities for hiking, snorkeling, and observing the island’s diverse wildlife. With a range of multi-day packages available, travelers can enjoy the Galapagos Islands’ natural wonders during their stay in Puerto Villamil.