Day Tour to Isabela Island with Tintorera Islet, Snorkeling Wetlands & Flamingos
Active
10h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This tour allows you to get to know the beautiful island of Isabela with all the species it is famous for in only one day; you will see the Galapagos penguins, the blue-footed boobies, the flamingos, the whitetip reef sharks, marine iguanas, sea turtles, sea lions and much more as well as Galapagos' most beautiful coconut palm beach along which the cute little town of Puerto Villamil is built.
This tour is the perfect combination of land & water, as during the (short) snorkel activity you will get to know the abundant wildlife underwater, while the disembarkation on Tinterera Islet plus the tour to the flamingos and tortoises allows you to observe all the land species from as close as possible.
The tour includes lunch in one of the best ocean front restaurants.
You will be provided with high quality snorkel equipment and wetsuits.
Please note that the only way to get to Isabela for the day is by PUBLIC SPEEDBOAT - we work with the best one but if the sea is rough it can get choppy!
Available options
Day tour to Isabela Island - Tintorera Islet, Snorkeling, Wetlands and Flamingos
What's included
Fee charged for the use of the pier in Puerto Ayora
Lunch menu in a very nice restaurant
Boat Tour "Las Tintoreras" with a Naturalist Guide
Soda/Pop
Transport with a private driver during the entire stay on Isabela Island
Lunch
Use of Snorkelling equipment
Wetsuits (long or short, as preferred)
Boat ride to Isabela round trip on a comfortable and fast speedboat
Fuel surcharge
Entry fee to the Breeding Centre ($10 per person)
Mesh bag to store your snorkel equipment and the wetsuit
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
During this boat tour, together with a naturalist guide you will be exploring the beautiful bay of Isabela Island, to see the Galapagos penguins from close as well as the blue-footed boobies. There will be a disembarkation on "Las Tintoreras", a little islet inhabited by tons of little marine iguanas a.o. The exploration walk on this island will lead you to the famous shark channel where lots of whitetip reef sharks ("Tintoreras in Spanish, therefore the name of the island") like to rest; often together with sea turtles and sea lions. Before getting back on board, you will also visit a beautiful little white sand beach inhabited by sea lions.
There will also be a great snorkel activity, together with sea turtles, sharks, rays, and - if you get lucky - then the penguins might get into the water with you too.
2
Following a beautiful trail along mangrove trees, you will explore the "Humedales", i.e. wetlands, where you will be able to see the Galapagos flamingos in their natural habitat, many other birds as well as marine iguanas.
The trail leads you to the most beautiful coconut palm beach.
3
Isabela Island is the only island with a stunningly beautiful coconut palm beach. Here you can observe big marine iguanas, sally lightfoot crabs, lava lizarrds, pelicans as well as lots of other birds.
4
You will also visit the Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre Arnaldo Tupiza, where you cannot only see the baby giant tortoises and differente juvenile stages, but also the oldest one (close to 200 years old). The $10 entry fee to this place is included in the tour price already.
What's not included
Propinas (optional)
Alcoholic Beverages
Water taxis to and from the speedboat ($1 per person)
Isabela Island
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.7
52 reviews
5★
43
4★
6
3★
2
2★
0
1★
1
Tripadvisor
4.6
66 reviews
5★
53
4★
7
3★
3
2★
1
1★
2
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
We meet at our office in Calle Enrique Fuentes ("El Saigón"), only a few footsteps from the pier.
About Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz is the second-largest island in the Galápagos and home to the largest population. Known for its diverse ecosystems, from lush highlands to arid lowlands, it offers a unique blend of wildlife, culture, and adventure. The island is a gateway to some of the most iconic natural wonders in the world.
Top Attractions
Charles Darwin Research Station
A scientific research station dedicated to the conservation of the Galápagos Islands. It's home to the famous giant tortoises and offers educational exhibits.
Nature
1-2 hours
$10 (included in national park fee)
El Chato Tortoise Reserve
A protected area in the highlands of Santa Cruz, home to giant tortoises in their natural habitat. The reserve offers a unique opportunity to observe these ancient creatures up close.
Nature
2-3 hours
Free (donations welcome)
Tortuga Bay
A stunning beach with white sand and clear waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. It's also a nesting site for sea turtles.
Beach
Half day
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Ceviche
Fresh raw fish cured in fresh lemon or lime juice, mixed with onions, tomatoes, and cilantro. Served with popcorn or plantain chips.
Appetizer
Contains fish, can be made gluten-free.
Locro de Papa
A hearty soup made with potatoes, cheese, and sometimes avocado. A staple dish in Ecuador.
Main Course
Vegetarian, can be made vegan.
Seco de Chivo
A traditional Ecuadorian stew made with goat meat, served with rice and plantains.
Main Course
Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians.
Popular Activities
Hiking in the highlands
Snorkeling and scuba diving
Beach lounging at Tortuga Bay
Sunset cruises
Visiting local markets and shops
Learning about Galápagos conservation efforts
Kayaking and paddleboarding
Snorkeling with sea lions and turtles
Best Time to Visit
December to June
This is the warmest and wettest time of the year, with higher humidity and occasional rain. The ocean is calmer, making it ideal for water activities and wildlife viewing.
22°C to 28°C
72°F to 82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas)
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
GMT-6
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Santa Cruz is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, petty theft can occur, especially in crowded areas. Exercise normal precautions and keep valuables secure.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
- • Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night.
- • Avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit or deserted areas.
Getting there
By air
- Seymour Airport • 10 km from Puerto Ayora
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable and frequent, connecting key points in the town and to the highlands.
Taxis
Available
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Puerto Ayora
Highlands of Santa Cruz
Day trips
Isabela Island
30 km from Santa Cruz • Full day
Isabela is the largest island in the Galápagos, known for its volcanic landscapes, diverse wildlife, and beautiful beaches.
Floreana Island
40 km from Santa Cruz • Full day
Floreana is known for its unique history, including the famous Post Office Bay and the Floreana mystery.
Festivals
Galápagos Anniversary Festival • March 1-31
Santa Cruz Carnival • February/March (dates vary)
Pro tips
- Book tours and accommodations well in advance, especially during peak seasons.
- Bring cash for small purchases and tips, as not all vendors accept cards.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking and hiking, as many attractions involve uneven terrain.
- Respect the wildlife and maintain a safe distance. Do not feed or touch the animals.
- Pack layers for the highlands, as the weather can be cooler and wetter than in Puerto Ayora.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
