Galapagos Penguin Landscape is found on Isabela Island – it even looks like a seahorse! It is settled by six large shield volcanoes fused into one island. Each of them is populated with different species of tortoise. Commonly, day tour adventurers visit just attractions around Villamil Pier where it is possible to find pink flamingos feeding on tiny shrimp larva, zigzagging penguins, frigate birds posing on the endemic trees. The snorkel time gives the opportunity to swim next to blue sharks at Tintoreras tiny islets shore.

Shark Path

The first populated island is situated on the south east of the Galápagos Islands. Birding journey lovers can visit Cormorant Point, where our guests observe the best flamingo lagoon in the Galapagos. This site also to enjoy snorkeling next to the variety of sharks, corals, tropical fishes, stingrays, sealions, marine tortoises, and countless types of marine life. It is possible to find an exclusive green sand beach, home of playful sea lions.

Description

The departure is going to be at 6:20 am from the Puerto Ayora Pier where our guests will embark on an amazing marine and land wildlife expedition on Isabela Island, the largest of the Archipelago. First, passengers will be able to spot the Giant Tortoise Breeding Center where the naturalists will explain and show closely five different species of tortoises from the different volcanoes on Isabela, it is also possible to see different kinds of tropical birds. Then, we will go to Flamingo lagoon where all the visitors have the chance to see hundreds of sea lions and obviously the pink flamingos. Last but not least, Las Tintoreras, which is a paradise for the tipped reef sharks. This small bay is where the Galapagos penguins like to frequent as well. It is also possible to observe playful lava heron and gulls. This place is magical for snorkeling, but the adventurers have to be quick to get a glimpse of the penguins underwater. The biggest island journey offers the opportunity to watch closely several species of finches. The hot lunch will be enjoyed at one of the town’s restaurants.

It is recommended to wear a wetsuit in order to neutralize the sea temperature, because it falls below 20ºC from June to November and it is up to 27ºC from December to May. 

Departure: at 6:20 am from Puerto Ayora Pier

Returning time: approximately at 5:00 pm

Travel Time: speed boat ride takes around 2 hours (August – October the seas can be quite rough). Adventurers with back or neck injuries are not advised to take this journey. 

Difficulty Level: intermediate

Highlight activity: walking and snorkeling

Transportation: speed boat

Note: have change USD 1.00 in order to pay water taxi at Puerto Ayora and Isabela pier.

Description

Very early in the morning, at 7:30 am, after the fresh delicious breakfast, starts the trip to Floreana Island. After riding 1 hour and 30 minutes, your comfortable speed boat will spot at the first site, named Enderby islet, unique place to observe tropical birds and it is a place to discover blue footed boobies nesting. You will be able to enjoy watching frigate birds and a lot of marine iguanas resting on the lava cliffs. If the sea welcome you peacefully it will allow to snorkeling next to the sea lions, marine turtles, and to explore fantastic marine flora and fauna. The second spot is at Pirates Caves where you will discover a unique green sand beach. Its olivine crystals form green beach. Crystals are originated from volcanic materials found in nearby tuff cones. While enjoying the beach you can trekking to the view point in order to observe the wonderful volcano landscape. Or, it is possible to practice snorkeling with sea lions, rays, marine turtles and reef fish. The last site to visit is Punta cormorant which is surrounded by the most beautiful landscape and in this place, you will find a lake which is flamingos home. Your snorkeling times offer you rays, manta rays, black sharks, Galapagos sharks, white tip sharks and there is a good chance to see hammerhead sharks. During your snorkeling excursion you will be served a hot and tasty lunch.         

It is recommended to wear a wetsuit in order to neutralize the sea temperature because it falls under 20ºC from September to December and it is up of 27ºC from January to August. 

Departure: at 7:30 am from Puerto Ayora Pier

Returning time: approximately at 5:00 pm

Travel Time: speed boat ride takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes (August – October the seas can be quite rough). Adventurers with back or neck injuries are not advised to take this journey.

Difficulty Level: intermediate

Highlight activity: snorkeling & fishing practice

Transportation: speed boat