Isabela Island, the largest in the Galapagos archipelago, is a must-visit destination. The island’s combination of diverse wildlife and stunning volcanic landscapes is hard to beat. With limited urban development, Isabela has a laid-back, small-town atmosphere, offering a wilder, more untouched vibe compared to Santa Cruz and San Cristobal.
Despite its remote location, Isabela Island boasts plenty of activities and sights. The town’s peaceful ambiance and gorgeous beach make it a perfect spot to relax, while the island itself offers opportunities for both land excursions and cruise visits. You can even explore the island independently if you prefer.
If you’re planning a trip to the Galapagos, I highly recommend dedicating at least three days to fully experience Isabela Island. I only stayed for two nights and found myself wishing I had more time to soak in everything it has to offer! You can also book this ultimate 5-Day Galapagos Land Tour on Isabela, a small group tour that covers most of the popular sights on the island. Or, like we did, you can create your own route for a more personalized experience.
In this article, discover what to do on Isabela Island, what to see, how to get there, and anything else you need to know before your exciting trip. I also visited Isabela as a part of my Galapagos trip and you can share my video footage:
How to Get to Isabela Island
There are several options for traveling to Isabela Island:
By Air
To reach Isabela Island in the Galapagos by air could be a long way. You need to fly from Quito to Guayaquil and then to Baltra Airport (Santa Cruz) or San Cristobal Airport.
Reaching Isabela Island in the Galapagos by air can indeed be a bit of a journey. First, you’ll need to fly from Quito to Guayaquil, then take a flight to either Baltra Airport on Santa Cruz Island or San Cristobal Airport.
After that, there are two options for getting to Isabela Island:
Inter-Island Flights
Emetebe and FlyGalapagos are the two airlines that fly between Santa Cruz and San Cristobal to Isabela Island. The cost will be about $150 per person.
Inter-Island Ferries
There are also inter-island ferries available which is a more affordable option. However, if you are coming from San Cristobal, there are no direct ferries from there to Isabela island.
If you prefer to get from San Cristobal to Isabela by ferry, you will need to take two speedboats. You’ll take the ferry to Santa Cruz first, and then wait for the ferry to Isabela. This is what we did and paid $25 per person for a boat ride.
By Cruise
Taking a Galapagos Islands cruise is the most common way to reach Isabela Island, but it’s important to note that not all cruises include the western islands in their itineraries. If visiting Isabela is a priority for you, make sure to check the cruise schedule carefully.
Planning trip to Galapagos Islands?
My wife and I spent two weeks on these magnificent islands, visited nearly every possible tour, and explored as much as we could. I shared all the important details in my comprehensive Galapagos Islands Travel Guide, where I cover everything you need to know about planning a trip to the Galapagos.
Galapagos Islands travel might surprise you with extra fees to enter the islands, the complicated logistics between islands, booking tours, and knowing which spots are free to explore and which ones are not. I’ve covered it all in this Galapagos Travel Guide.
Also, if you’re planning a trip to the Galapagos, make sure to use my link for discounted hotel prices via Booking.com. It really helps support my blog!
Two highly recommended options that do include Isabela in their itineraries are the Natural Paradise Galapagos trip and the Infinity Galapagos yacht. However, it’s worth noting that these cruises are on the pricier side! While the cost can be steep, the luxury experience and the opportunity to explore Isabela’s wonders make them popular choices for travelers.
Puerto Villamil
Puerto Villamil is a serene harbor town that doubles as a major transport hub on Isabela Island. Despite being the heart of the island’s human population, the town has managed to retain its charming fishing port vibe. Nestled behind a stunning beach, Puerto Villamil is dotted with cozy pubs, restaurants, and small shops, offering a relaxed atmosphere.
The town’s beautiful long beach, fringed by tropical palm trees and gleaming white coral sand, is perfect for unwinding. It also serves as the starting point for day trips around the island, with access to incredible snorkeling spots, nearby islets where penguins play, and quiet spots where white-tipped sharks rest. Excursions to neighboring islands also depart from here.
Behind the beach, several saltwater lagoons host pink flamingos, pintail ducks, and other wildlife, all easily reachable by foot, minivan, or panga.
When visiting Puerto Villamil, make the most of Isabela’s slow internet connection—it’s the perfect excuse to unplug and enjoy a few peaceful, tech-free days in paradise.
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Getting Around Isabela Island
Isabela Island is a great destination to explore by foot or bicycle, thanks to its minimal traffic and laid-back vibe. With very few cars on the island, biking is a fantastic option for visitors. You’ll find plenty of places in Puerto Villamil where you can rent a bike and enjoy the freedom to explore the island at your own pace.
If you’re staying in Puerto Villamil, walking to many of the main attractions is quite easy. For longer excursions around the island, booking a tour is a great choice, as most tour agencies will provide transportation, making it convenient to visit key sites and enjoy everything Isabela has to offer.
Attractions to Visit on Isabela Island
Isabela Island offers a wide range of activities and attractions to suit every type of traveler. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, there’s something for everyone. Popular activities include kayaking, snorkeling, hiking, cycling, and surfing, all of which allow you to explore the island’s stunning landscapes and marine life. And when you’re ready to unwind, the island’s tropical beaches provide the perfect spot to relax and soak up the sun. With so much to do, Isabela Island is a must-visit for any Galapagos adventure!
Isabela Island Land-Based Tours
The most popular destinations are near Puerto Villamil. Below are the sites you can visit if you are planning to tour Isabela via land-based tours.
Concha de Perla
Concha de Perla is a stunning crystalline bay with clear waters and a small golden sand beach, perfect for a day of snorkeling and relaxation and it’s free to visit. You can easily rent snorkeling equipment in town and dive straight in to explore the underwater world. The bay is home to tropical Galapagos fish, playful sea lions, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot a penguin or two! The best part? There’s no need for a tour guide here, so you can enjoy this natural wonder at your own pace. It’s a fantastic spot to experience the beauty of Isabela Island’s marine life up close.
Puerto Villamil Beach
Puerto Villamil Beach is a magnificent stretch of white sand right in front of Puerto Villamil town, offering a perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring. Whether you want to swim in the clear waters, relax on the beach, or enjoy a sundowner in a hammock at one of the bay’s seaside bars, this beach provides a serene escape. The area is also teeming with wildlife—you’ll spot marine iguanas, Sally lightfoot crabs, and even blue-footed boobies roaming around, adding to the charm of this beautiful beach. It’s the perfect place to end your day in paradise!
Isabela Wetlands
The Isabela Wetlands are located near the far end of the main beach, beginning next to the Iguana Crossing Hotel. This beautiful area is easily explored on foot, thanks to a network of seven boardwalk pathways that take you through lakes, lagoons, mangrove swamps, and scenic viewpoints. As you stroll through the wetlands, keep an eye out for flamingos, pintail ducks, and other wading birds that frequent the area. It’s a peaceful and picturesque spot, perfect for observing wildlife and soaking in the natural beauty of Isabela Island.
Flamingo Lagoon (Laguna de Los Flamencos)
Just a short distance west of the main town, you’ll find a man-made lagoon of brackish water known as Flamingo Lagoon (Laguna de Los Flamencos). This is a prime spot to observe Galapagos flamingos, as they gather here to comb the water for crustaceans. The vibrant pink of the flamingos against the lagoon’s backdrop creates a beautiful sight. Occasionally, you might also spot Galapagos ducks or other wader birds in the area, making it a peaceful place for birdwatching and connecting with nature.
La Playa de Amor (The Love Beach)
La Playa de Amor is a popular spot among locals for swimming and relaxation. One of the beach’s unique features is its sand, made of crushed shells, giving it a distinctive appearance. Nearby, you’ll find a tidal pool and a colony of marine iguanas basking in the sun. Sea turtles are often seen in this area as well, making it a great place for wildlife watching while you enjoy the serene surroundings. It’s the perfect spot to unwind and take in the natural beauty of Isabela Island.
Wall of Tears (Muro de Lagrimas)
Six kilometers outside of Puerto Villamil lies the Wall of Tears, a striking 100-meter-long and 6-meter-tall wall made of black lava rocks. This imposing structure was built by prisoners of a former Isabela prison camp, serving as a poignant reminder of the island’s harsh and dark history. Locals even say the site is haunted, adding an eerie atmosphere to the experience. As you explore the area, you’ll often spot lava lizards darting between the rocks and plants, offering a glimpse of the island’s vibrant wildlife amidst its somber past.
Isabela Tortoise Breeding Center (Arnaldo Tupiza Centro de Crianza)
Tortoise Breeding Centers are an important feature of the Galapagos Islands, serving as sanctuaries for these iconic creatures. The Isabela Tortoise Breeding Center stands out as one of the Galapagos’ greatest conservation achievements. Here, several indigenous species of Isabela tortoises are nurtured and cared for, with the goal of releasing them back into the wild once they are old enough. This center plays a crucial role in the preservation of these remarkable animals, offering visitors a chance to witness the conservation efforts that help sustain the tortoise population in their natural habitat.
Day Tours From Isabela Island
Los Tuneles
Los Tuneles is undoubtedly one of the top snorkel and dive sites in the Galapagos Islands. This remarkable location features a protected maze of ponds and lava bridges, which were formed when lava from a nearby volcanic eruption flowed into the sea. These unique formations provide a safe haven for an array of marine life, including vibrant reef fish, century-old sea turtles, large seahorses, starfish, and whitetip reef sharks. Exploring the volcanic bridges while snorkeling or diving at Los Tuneles offers an incredible opportunity to witness the rich biodiversity of the Galapagos up close.
This half-day excursion to Los Tuneles is exclusive to land-based tours and is not available to cruise ship passengers. If you’re eager to explore this incredible snorkel and dive site, you’ll need to book a land tour to gain access. It’s a fantastic opportunity for those staying on Isabela Island to experience one of the Galapagos’ most unique marine environments. This tour is the most popular on Isabela Island, so it’s highly recommended to book in advance. We bought ours here, and everything went smoothly.
Las Tintoreras
Tintoreras is a small, charming islet that can be visited on a half-day trip from Puerto Villamil. The tour typically begins with a boat ride around the port, offering scenic views of the surrounding area. If you’re fortunate, you may spot Galapagos penguins and other fascinating wildlife during the trip. This islet is a perfect spot for observing the unique creatures that call the Galapagos home, making it a must-see destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
After a dry dock landing on Tintoreras, you’ll follow a circular walkway that takes you through a large colony of marine iguanas, giving you a close look at these iconic creatures. The path leads to a stunning lava chasm where you can observe whitetip reef sharks resting in the waters below. This unique experience combines the opportunity to see both land and marine wildlife in their natural habitats, making it a highlight of the Tintoreras tour. It’s a less popular tour, but I found it stunning and recommend it to everyone. We bought our tickets in advance here because you are not allowed to explore it on your own.
Isla Tortuga
Isla Tortuga is a fascinating ancient volcanic crater, with about half of it visible above water. Its unique tortoise-like shape gives the island its name. As an important nesting site for Galapagos seabirds, the island is fully protected, meaning visitors are not permitted to disembark. However, you can enjoy the view and take photos from the boat, observing the colonies of seagulls, sea lions, and marine iguanas.
This excursion is perfect for those who enjoy bird watching or want a more relaxed experience, especially if the more adventurous tours like the Lava Tunnels or volcanic hikes aren’t appealing to you. It’s a serene way to appreciate the natural beauty and wildlife of the Galapagos Islands.
Sierra Negra Volcan
Sierra Negra Volcano boasts the world’s second-largest crater, spanning an impressive seven by nine kilometers. We embarked on a guided day hike to the summit, where we were rewarded with breathtaking views into the massive crater. It was a fantastic way to experience a different side of Isabela Island and its volcanic landscape. Before heading to Volcan Chico, we marveled at the iconic lava flows within the Sierra Negra crater. As we continued, the terrain dramatically shifted into a barren volcanic wasteland, dotted with fascinating rock formations like hornitos (volcanic ovens) and a strange, moon-like landscape.
The hike covers 6 kilometers roundtrip, with a 200-meter elevation gain. While the trail is manageable, the Volcan Chico portion can be more challenging due to its rugged terrain, but the otherworldly scenery makes it well worth the effort! This tour is quite popular, so be sure to book in advance. We booked here, and the price matched what local agencies on Isabela Island offered. We also saw horseback riding on the volcano, which looked amazing! I didn’t know about this option beforehand, so spots were unavailable when we visited. But if you’re into horseback riding with stunning views, you can reserve it in advance here too!
Cruise Tours on Isabela Island
Some yachts offer itineraries that include stops at these unique locations on Isabela Island, accessible only by sailing excursions departing from Santa Cruz Island. These exclusive tours provide a fantastic way to explore the more remote and captivating parts of Isabela that are not reachable by land, offering visitors a chance to experience the island’s diverse wildlife, volcanic landscapes, and pristine environments in a truly unique way.
Tagus Cove
Tagus Cove has a rich history as a favored refuge for whalers and pirates, thanks to its calm, hidden waters that provided an ideal anchorage. Today, its peaceful environment makes it a popular stop on Galapagos cruises. The activities you can enjoy in Tagus Cove will vary depending on your cruise schedule.
Some yachts offer a panga dinghy cruise around the cove, providing an excellent opportunity to observe wildlife. It’s common to spot Galapagos penguins, Flightless Cormorants, and a variety of other marine bird species. The cove is a wonderful place to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and rich biodiversity of the Galapagos Islands.
Urbina Bay (Bahia Urbina)
Urbina Bay is one of Isabela Island’s most remarkable locations, offering a unique blend of wildlife and volcanic landscapes. The coastal area is home to a variety of species, including Flightless Cormorants, pelicans, and marine iguanas. For those who enjoy snorkeling, the bay also offers the chance to swim alongside turtles, rays, and reef fish, adding to the adventure.
The bay sits at the base of the Alcedo Volcano, whose towering summit provides a stunning backdrop. The area is also home to the Alcedo tortoise species and boasts the largest Galapagos land iguanas. Galapagos hawks are frequently spotted here as well, making Urbina Bay a fantastic place for wildlife enthusiasts to explore the diversity of the Galapagos Islands.
Vicente Roca Point (Punta Vicente Roca)
Vicente Roca Point, situated on Isabela Island’s northwest coast, is an exclusive and breathtaking location that can only be reached by dinghy. Known for its incredible snorkeling opportunities, the area is home to two coves where you can spot a variety of fascinating wildlife. Visitors often encounter flightless cormorants, a colony of marine iguanas, storm petrels, as well as blue-footed and Nazca boobies. If you’re lucky, you may even see Galapagos penguins.
The cold waters and thriving underwater ecosystem at Vicente Roca Point also attract whales and dolphins, making it an ideal destination for marine wildlife enthusiasts. It’s a must-visit for those eager to experience the unique biodiversity of the Galapagos Islands.
Albermarle Point (Punto Albermarle)
The northern tip of Isabela Island is a critical breeding site for the Flightless Cormorant and is home to the largest Marine Iguanas in the Galapagos archipelago. Although landing at this location is not permitted, visitors can still get an up-close view of the wildlife by taking a dinghy ride along the coast.
In addition to its rich wildlife, this area holds historical significance, as it housed a US Army radar installation during World War II, playing a key role in the Pacific War. This blend of unique wildlife and historical importance makes the northern tip of Isabela a fascinating destination for both nature lovers and history enthusiasts.
Elizabeth Bay
If your Galapagos yacht has kayaks on board, you’re in for a treat—Elizabeth Bay provides an amazing opportunity to paddle close to some of the archipelago’s most fascinating wildlife. As you navigate the waters, you’ll have a chance to see sea creatures up close in their natural habitat.
In addition to kayaking, tourists can also snorkel in the waters around the mangrove forest, an excellent habitat for reef fish, whitetip reef sharks, turtles, and rays (both golden and eagle). On rare occasions, you might even be lucky enough to spot dolphins or humpback whales visiting the bay, adding to the magic of the experience. Elizabeth Bay is a wildlife-rich destination that’s perfect for both snorkeling and kayaking enthusiasts.
Moreno Point
Moreno Point offers a variety of exciting activities for visitors. A panga dinghy tour along the rugged coastline is an excellent way to spot Galapagos penguins and other coastal bird species. The area is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with sightings of flamingos, pelicans, various types of herons, and other avian species commonly seen in the region.
In addition to birdlife, the tidal pools at Moreno Point are home to a fascinating array of marine creatures. You’ll find Sally lightfoot crabs, sea turtles, and even reef sharks that have become temporarily trapped until the next high tide. It’s a perfect location for those who love wildlife and exploring the diverse ecosystems of the Galapagos.
Dive Sites on Isabela Island
Cape Marshall Dive Site (Cabo Marshall)
Cape Marshall is a thrilling 120-foot-deep reef dive located off the northwestern coast of Isabela Island, offering an unforgettable underwater experience. Due to its strong currents, this dive site is only recommended for experienced divers.
The area is teeming with marine life, and you can expect to encounter a variety of fascinating species, including hammerhead and white-tipped reef sharks, rays, schools of barracuda, guineafowl pufferfish, parrotfish, yellowtail surgeonfish, and even playful sea lions. For advanced divers, Cape Marshall provides a challenging yet rewarding opportunity to explore the diverse marine ecosystems of the Galapagos Islands.
Vicente Roca Point Diving
Dive yachts like the Galapagos Sky often dock at Vicente Roca Point on Isabela Island, offering an exceptional wall dive experience with plenty of nooks and crannies to explore for marine life among the coral. The currents here are generally mild, and visibility is decent, making it a favorite spot for divers.
The highlight of diving at Vicente Roca is the chance to encounter the elusive Sunfish (Mola Mola). In addition, you can spot a range of fascinating creatures such as frogfish, red-lipped batfish, seahorses, octopus, pufferfish, and other reef species. The area is also frequented by penguins, sea lions, and various marine birds, all diving for fish, making it a vibrant and dynamic dive site.
Best Time to Visit Isabela Island
Peak Tourist Season
The high tourist seasons in the Galapagos Islands typically fall during June, July, and August, as well as from December 20th to January 5th. These periods attract the most visitors due to favorable weather and holidays, so it’s a good idea to book tours and accommodations well in advance if you’re planning to visit during these busy times.
Low Tourist Season
September is considered the only low season in the Galapagos, as the weather and ocean currents are less favorable for travel. Despite the cooler temperatures and choppier waters, it’s one of the best times to witness the incredible wildlife the islands are known for. With fewer tourists, you’ll have a more intimate experience, and the unique behavior of animals during this time, such as mating and migration, makes it a rewarding season for nature enthusiasts.
Climatic Seasons
Locals refer to December through May as the beach season in the Galapagos, as these months are characterized by hot, sunny weather, making it perfect for beachgoers. The rainy season falls between January and February, while the dry season spans from June to November. During August and September, there’s a strong likelihood of precipitation and mist, adding a unique atmosphere to the islands. Despite the changing weather, each season offers its own charm and opportunities to enjoy the Galapagos’ diverse environment.
Where to Stay on Isabela Island
Most of the hotels on Isabela Island are located in and around Puerto Villamil, the island’s main town. Since Isabela is farther away than San Cristobal or Santa Cruz, the atmosphere is much more laid-back. This, combined with the island’s stunning beaches and peaceful vibe, makes Isabela an ideal destination for a relaxing and serene getaway in the Galapagos. Whether you’re looking to unwind or explore, the island offers a tranquil escape from the busier parts of the archipelago.
We have listed some lodging recommendations on Isabela island.
Cormorant Beach
Cormorant Beach House is a popular choice on Isabela Island, thanks to its prime location and easy access to some of the island’s best restaurants. This makes it simple for guests to experience the finest of Isabela. The hotel is owned by one of the island’s oldest families, who are known for offering personalized and attentive service, ensuring that each guest feels well-cared for. If you’re looking for a comfortable stay with a local touch, Cormorant Beach House is an excellent option.
Their average nightly rate starts at USD160. Check the current price here.
Chez Manany Galapagos Ecolodge
Chez Manany is a charming, family-run lodging located just outside the peaceful village of Puerto Villamil. Known for its beautifully outfitted, small-scale accommodations, Chez Manany offers guests a close connection to nature in the heart of the Galapagos Islands. Its picturesque location near Concha de Perla allows visitors to immerse themselves in the serene surroundings, providing an intimate and authentic experience of Isabela Island life. Perfect for those looking to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area, Chez Manany is a hidden gem on the island.
Their nightly rate starts at USD180. Check the current price here.
Hostal Villamil
Hostal Villamil is conveniently located in Puerto Villamil, just 200 meters from the beach, making it an ideal spot for visitors seeking easy access to the shoreline. The hostel offers air-conditioned rooms and a tranquil garden area, providing a comfortable and relaxing environment for guests. With nightly rates starting at an affordable USD 45 on average, Hostal Villamil is a great budget-friendly option for those looking to explore Isabela Island. Check the current price here.
Hostal Insular
Hostal Insular in the Galapagos is conveniently located just a 4-minute walk from the beach, about 300 meters away. This accommodation offers air-conditioned rooms and free WiFi, making it a comfortable and affordable option for travelers. With nightly rates ranging from USD 24 to USD 85, Hostal Insular caters to a variety of budgets, providing an excellent base for exploring the beauty of Isabela Island. Check the current price here.
Iguana Crossing Boutique Hotel
This beachfront property in the Galápagos Islands offers a serene and luxurious stay, surrounded by exotic nature. With its stunning location, it provides visitors with a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere for an unforgettable experience. Nightly rates range from USD 275 to USD 400, making it an ideal option for those seeking a premium, tranquil getaway in the heart of the Galapagos. Check the current price here.
Hotel Coral Blanco
Hotel Coral Blanco is conveniently located just 50 meters from the beach, with the shoreline only a one-minute walk away. Offering peaceful accommodation in Puerto Villamil, this hotel provides guests with complimentary Wi-Fi, making it an ideal choice for a relaxing stay near the beach on Isabela Island.
Nightly rates are between USD45 to USD100. Check the current price here.
La Laguna Galapagos Hotel
La Laguna Galapagos Hotel is beautifully situated on Isabela Island, offering stunning views of Flamingos Lagoon, which is located just in front of the hotel. Additionally, the hotel is only two blocks away from the gorgeous white sand beach, making it an ideal location for visitors. With average nightly rates starting at USD 115, this hotel provides a perfect blend of comfort and natural beauty for guests looking to enjoy the island’s serene atmosphere.
Check the current price here.
RELATED: Best Hotels on the Galapagos Islands
Where to Dine on Isabela Island
The growth of Isabela Island’s restaurant scene has kept pace with the island’s overall tourism development. As a result, visitors can enjoy a diverse range of dining options, with both Ecuadorian and international restaurants available. Whether you’re craving local flavors or something more familiar, Isabela Island offers a variety of cuisines to suit all tastes, ensuring guests have plenty of delicious options during their stay.
We have enumerated a few restaurants to try on Isabela island.
Iguana Point
The best food along the short strip near Hotel Albemarle can be found right on the beach, close to BJs Beach Bar. If you’re looking for a typical almuerzo (lunch), Iguana Point is a fantastic choice. Not only is it a great spot for a hearty midday meal, but later in the day, it’s the perfect place to unwind with happy hour drinks. Be sure to try their famous coco-locos—a local favorite!
Mercado Municipal de Isabela
If you’re craving an empanada or a light snack instead of a full meal, head to the municipal market in the early afternoon. Lunch is a big event in the Galapagos, and visiting the market is a great way to switch things up while also saving money. You’ll typically find one or two stalls offering freshly made empanadas—a delicious and budget-friendly way to experience local flavors.
Isabela Grill
This long-standing restaurant in Puerto Villamil offers a truly unique BBQ experience in the Galapagos, making it a must-visit. Known for its variety of seafood and BBQ items, it’s best enjoyed in a group, where you can take advantage of larger meal options and sample a range of delicious dishes. Whether you’re in the mood for seafood or other BBQ favorites, this restaurant is a fantastic choice for a memorable meal on Isabela Island.
Coco Surf
Coco Surf is a popular restaurant offering not only excellent shawarma and wraps but also a range of more unique dishes. Their menu features hearty options like big bowls of soup, generous servings of their signature “crispy rice”, and spectacular seafood platters. For something simpler yet equally delicious, their shrimp dishes are also a favorite. It’s a great spot to try a variety of flavorful options while enjoying a laid-back dining experience on Isabela Island.
El Toque de Melida
El Toque de Melida is a popular lunch spot for locals, with occasional travelers stopping by. The place is usually bustling, offering an authentic local dining experience at a budget-friendly price. If you’re looking for affordable food on Isabela Island, this is the kind of place to explore. While an almuerzo lunch costs around $8 at Isabela Grill, you can enjoy a similar meal for slightly less at El Toque de Melida, making it a great option for those keeping a tight budget while savoring local flavors.
Travel Tips
Here is some helpful information you should be aware of before visiting Isabela Island:
Banks and ATMs
The Banco del Pacifico ATM located in the main park of Puerto Villamil does accept international cards. However, it’s highly recommended to bring plenty of cash with you, as we’ve encountered some tourists who were unable to withdraw money from the ATM. Cash is essential, especially on Isabela Island, where card payment options can be limited and ATM availability isn’t always reliable.
Cellphone Network
Claro is the cellphone operator with the most coverage on Isabela Island, making it the best option for staying connected during your visit. While coverage may still be limited in more remote areas, Claro generally provides the most reliable service across the island.
Hospitals and Health Centers
There is only one health center on Isabela Island, called Hospitales y Centro de Salud, located at the intersection of 16 de Marzo and Malecón streets. This facility provides basic medical services for both locals and visitors. It’s a good idea to be aware of its location in case of any health-related needs during your stay on the island.
Bottom Line
Isabela Island is vast, diverse, and packed with everything a tourist could hope for. Known for its incredible biodiversity, the Galapagos Islands offer some of the best opportunities for divers, snorkelers, and kayakers to be amazed by the spectacular marine life. The island’s volcanic landscapes are also breathtaking and unique, making it a must-see destination for nature lovers.
Isabela is one of the top spots to witness Galapagos whales and dolphins. Whether you choose to embark on a cruise loop around the island’s western coast or opt for a ground excursion in Puerto Villamil, Isabela is sure to impress and provide unforgettable experiences!
Planning trip to Ecuador?
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