Isla Isabela

Isabela Island (Isla Isabela) is the largest island in the Galapagos, is in the shape of a sea horse and was named by Chrisopher Columbus in honor of Queen Isabela of Spain. It is home to five active volcanoes.

Punta Moreno Highlights:
Along this beautiful rocky shore, a field of hardened black lava flows is pockmarked by shallow pools, which are home to shorebirds and flamingos. The mangrove-lined shore also provides a chance to see marine iguanas, sea turtles, stingrays, sharks, penguins, and the flightless cormorant.

Excursion options include a long walk and zodiac ride, or an extended zodiac ride. This is a dry landing.

Urvina Bay Highlights:
Composed of five coalesced volcanoes, this is the largest island in the Galapagos and the most recently active. The latest eruption occurred in 2009. Here we will see large land iguanas, finches, and if lucky, a giant tortoise or two. In 1954, the intrusion of magma below one of the island’s volcanoes caused part of the bay to be uplifted some 6 meters. Today, we can walk through the remains of what was once a thriving underwater reef.

Excursion options include a long, faster-paced hike with some rock climbing required, followed by an optional snorkel (if conditions allow), or a short walk and optional snorkel. This is a wet landing.