Española Island Tour - Punta Suárez & Gardner Islet
Introduction
Española Island / 1 day
Where Wildlife Takes Your Breath Away
The Española Island Tour - Punta Suárez & Gardner Islet offers an extraordinary wildlife experience in the Galápagos Islands, featuring stunning landscapes, remarkable birdlife, and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters. Española, roughly 60 km2, is one of the oldest islands, formed over three million years ago, fostering unique species and ecosystems that attract wildlife lovers and photographers.
Day 1
Day 1 - Española Island Tour – Punta Suárez & Gardner Islet
Wildlife Encounters and Snorkeling Adventure
Where Wildlife Takes Your Breath Away
🌿 Punta Suárez
Punta Suárez features a guided walk along a 2 km trail through volcanic terrain, where wildlife is often seen up close.
Galápagos Albatross Española is renowned for the Galápagos albatross, with sightings possible from May to December during breeding season. Watching these majestic birds glide is unforgettable.
Gardner Islet
Next, explore Gardner Islet for excellent snorkeling in clear waters.
Wildlife and seabird observation
Observe Galápagos albatrosses, blue-footed boobies, Nazca boobies, marine iguanas, sea lions, swallow-tailed gulls, Española mockingbirds, and other seabirds and wildlife in their natural habitat.
Visit to the Punta Suárez blowhole
Don't miss the blowhole at Punta Suárez, where waves shoot seawater up to 20 meters high, creating a thrilling sight.
Snorkeling at Gardner Islet
Explore Gardner Islet for excellent snorkeling in clear waters, where you might see sea turtles, tropical fish, rays, marine iguanas, sea lions, and other Galápagos marine species. This paradise, with turquoise waters and white sands, contrasts beautifully with Punta Suárez's rugged landscapes.
Marine wildlife observation
Observe sea turtles, tropical fish, rays, marine iguanas, sea lions, and other Galápagos marine species while snorkeling at Gardner Islet.
Scenic navigation
Enjoy scenic navigation from Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, San Cristóbal to Española Island and back, taking in the beautiful seascapes of the Galápagos.
Is This Tour Right for You?
The Española Island Tour is ideal for travelers who want to experience one of the richest wildlife destinations in the Galápagos in a single day.
It is particularly recommended for:
• Birdwatchers
• Wildlife enthusiasts
• Nature photographers
• Snorkeling lovers
• Travelers interested in endemic species
• Visitors looking for a more immersive Galápagos experience
Because the tour includes a guided hike and a longer navigation from San Cristóbal, it is best suited to travelers who are comfortable spending a full day exploring and who want to prioritize wildlife and nature.
The Galápagos albatross is seasonal, with the main period for observation generally occurring between May and December. Outside this period, the tour remains an exceptional wildlife experience due to Española's large concentration of seabirds, marine iguanas, sea lions, and other endemic species. The itinerary and snorkeling activities are subject to Galápagos National Park regulations, weather conditions, sea conditions, and the instructions of the naturalist guide. Our regular departures are operated aboard SharkSky I, subject to availability. If SharkSky I is fully booked or you request a departure that we cannot accommodate aboard our vessel, we will gladly arrange your tour with one of our trusted partner vessels. We work exclusively with operators authorized by the Galápagos National Park and the Port Captaincy, carefully selected for their safety standards, experienced crews, and service quality similar to our own, ensuring you can enjoy your Española Island experience with confidence.
What's Included
What's included
Meals
Light breakfast - vegetarian - vegan - Snacks - Fruits - Beverages
Towel
On Board
Naturalist guide
Snorkel equipment & Wetsuit
Pick up from our office
What's not included
Pick Up - Drop off
In this island, the most of accommodations are near to the meeting point.