Things to do in Isabela, Galapagos Islands: The Best Tours

October 16, 2021 Terina Blouin

The largest of the Galapagos Islands, Isabela is one of the most volcanically active places in the world. Whether this is thrilling or terrifying is up to you. It doesn’t seem to bother the iguanas and penguins of Las Tintoreras, a nearby island cluster and popular snorkeling site. Walk from Puerto Villamil through mangrove forests and saltwater lagoons to reach the Tortoise Breeding Center. Isabela was once used as an exile for prisoners, who built the devastating Wall of Tears as part of their punishment.
Restaurants in Isabela

1. 7-Day The Best of Galapagos Adventure

Swissôtel Quito, Ave 12 de Octubre 1820, Quito 170143, Ecuador Adventure Journeys
Excellent
100%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 5 reviews

Discover the enchanted Galapagos Islands through this island-hopping tour! The islands offer endless opportunities to witness a unique abundance of wildlife in a setting unlike any other on the planet. Due to it’s isolation, the Galapagos formed a natural sanctuary that preserves species, allowing them to evolve over countless millennia. This is one of the few places on earth that allows such close and intimate contact with the wildlife. The tour also provides many benefits to local communities and is socially and environmentally responsible. Be part of an educational and inspirational journey of a lifetime in one of the most fiercely protected marine wilderness’ in the world! "Unique Experiences" Snorkel through lava formations with sea turtles, penguins, sea horses, sea lions and sharks at Lava Tunnels Hike to the top of Sierra Negra Volcano on Isabela Island and admire the surrounding moon-like landscapes

Inclusions: Lunch, Breakfast, Lunch, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Airport shuttles (Domestic flights), Accommodation based in double occupancy, Activities, Gear: snorkeling mask and fins, life vest, Certified expert English-speaking Adventure Naturalist local guides

Exclusions: Airfare Quito - Galapagos - Quito round trip, Single Supplement, International flights, Airport transfer (international flights), Travel insurance (mandatory), Meals not described in the itinerary , INGALA transit card Fee, Galapagos National Park Fee, USD$10 pier-use fee at Puerto Villamil, Wetsuit for rent: USD $10, Tips

Reviewed By imnhoj

It would be hard to pick a favorite activity on this adventure, every day seemed to be better than the last. Climbing cotopaxi to 16k, mountain biking in the Andes, white water rafting, hiking around a volcanic crater lake, the otovalo market, the amazing hike through the rain forest, and exploring Quito. And I don't think we have ever had a better guide, Marcelo was a very knowledgeable and gracious host for his remarkable country. All of our accomodations were top notch and very unique. This trip far exceeded our expectations. If you are looking for an adventure, you will not be disappointed.

2. 12 Day Galapagos Expedition (Tourist Class)

Rebecca Adventure Travel
Excellent
100%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 3 reviews

This Galapagos Islands Expedition Tour is designed for travelers who like a combination of organized activities and exploring other parts of the Galapagos Islands by themselves. You will explore the Galapagos Islands with a combination of organized day tours with an English speaking guide and have time to explore by yourself with our self-guided packages. Enjoy this enchanted archipelago with our Galapagos Islands Expedition tour!

Inclusions: Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Lunch, Lunch, Lunch, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Lunch, Breakfast, Lunch, Accommodation in a single, double or triple room., Breakfast, Breakfast, Snorkel gear., English speaking naturalist guide (local Galapagos guide), Transfer in from San Cristobal airport and transfer out to Baltra airport., Transportation between the Islands., 24/7 assistance in Dutch, English and Spanish.

Exclusions: Round trip flights from mainland Ecuador to Galapagos Islands., Entrance fee Galapagos National Park., Migratory Control Card: $20 p.p. (cash only), Isabela dock fee: $10 p.p. (cash only), Water taxi $ 1 p.p. each way (a boat that takes you from the Speedboat to the Harbor and vice versa), Transportation between Baltra Airport – Itabaca Channel fee ($5 p.p. each way), Wet-suits rent: $5 p.p. (recommendable between May-November), Personal health & travel insurance., Optional tips for the guide.

Reviewed By mbennaton

We (my husband and I ) had an amazing time in the Galapagos Islands! We did this trip at the end of October 2020 after the stressful lockdown covid months, so we were looking forward to unwind and visit for the first time the enchanted islands as our vacation. The tours designed by Rebecca Adventure were perfect and customized to our taste and needs. We visited Santa Cruz and Isabela and it was perfect because there weren't many tourists at the time due to the pandemic. We were truly impressed with all the activities, the wildlife and the services provided by our tour guides. We got to see most of the land and marine fauna that we expected, including hammerhead sharks. It was without a doubt one of the most memorable trips of our lives. We highly recommend Rebecca Adventure as your tour agency for the Galapagos and Ecuador. Biosecurity measures were very well respected on the islands, so its safe to travel! If you're looking to come to Ecuador and the Galapagos this is the time, still less tourists, the wildlife is truly impressive and besides life is short, take risks and ENJOY IT!

3. 8-Day Land-based Trip in Galápagos exploring 5 Islands/Low budget

San Cristóbal Island, Ecuador Latin Adventures Tour Operator
Excellent
0%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
100%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 1 reviews

An 8-day program you will experience the highlights of the Galapagos Islands, you can choose hotels class according to your requirements. Swim alongside colorful fishes, sea urchins and starfish while snorkeling. You might even spot some sharks! The volcanic islands are also home to the Giant Tortoises. See these amazing reptiles as well as other creatures, including blue-footed boobies, Galapagos sea lions, penguins, marine iguanas and frigate birds in their natural habitat. The highlights of this program are: San Cristobal, Santa Cruz, Isabela, Española, an uninhabited island.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Breakfast, Lunch, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Lunch, Lunch, Breakfast, Lunch, Lunch, Lunch, 7 nights accommodation in selected hotels, Certified English/Spanish speaking guide, Snorkeling gear including fins and Wetsuit (shorty 2.5mm) when the excursions include water activities, Small-group tour or private as described in the program, 24 hours asisstance in English / Spanish

Exclusions: Entrance fee $100,00 (American dollars) in Galapagos National Park (to be paid upon arrival at the airport – CASH ONLY – There is no ATM at the airport. Please bring enough cash), Flight from/to Galápagos Islands ( we will help to organize it according to the itinerary, contact us), INGALA $20,00 (American dollars) in the mainland airport, Travel insurance: mandatory for all tourists entering Ecuador, Extra kilos flight from San Cristobal to Isabela (USD$2,00 per kilo), Boat in the pier $1,00, Tips

Reviewed By 825lial

My husband and I are in Galapagos for our honeymoon and this was the perfect trip to start off with. You get to enjoy the beach, see so much wildlife, and learn information about Darwin. Our tour guide Erika was amazing and she had so much knowledge of everything, we loved it!

4.  Tour of the city to Isabela + Tintoreras from Santa Cruz

GalapagosBKtours
Excellent
0%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
100%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 1 reviews

One day visit to the best of the city of Isabela plus a private tour to Tintoreras islet, ideal for short people without the opportunity to stay a couple of nights in Isabela and who want to know Isabela Island and see Galapagos penguins. Guaranteed way.

Inclusions: Ferry back and forth, In local restaurant, Naturalist Guide, Snacks, Snorkeling equipment

Exclusions:

Reviewed By Sylvie L

Our guide was determined to show us everything, and we did! Blue footed Boobies mating, sea horses, tons of white fin reef sharks, black fin reef sharks, turtles, colourful fish. At the beginning we went for a land mini tour on top of the tunnels so good shoes or beach shoes are a must. The boat ride there included a quick stop a rock with wildlife. Very small bag lunch is included so bring snacks and water just in case. Afterwards the guide downloaded incredible pictures he took and we could get a copy on our USB for free! What a souvenir!!!

5. 5-Day Guided Galapagos & Los Tuneles Tour

Nature Galapagos & Ecuador
Excellent
100%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 1 reviews

Embark on a 5-day excursion to uncover the breathtaking landscape and spectacular wildlife that fills the lost paradise of Santa Cruz and Isabela islands. Set off on an adventure that includes hiking, boating, and snorkeling, and a visit to the ocean oasis of Los Tuneles.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch, Lunch, Breakfast, Dinner, Breakfast, Lunch, 4 nights accommodation in selected class hotels in Galápagos, Breakfast, Dinner, Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch, All meals (breakfast – lunch – dinner) as per itinerary, All land and sea transportation within the Galapagos during the program, Bilingual naturalist guides for each island and activities, Excursions and visits during the program as per itinerary, Snorkel equipment as specified by the itinerary, Transfer-in and out from Baltra Airport (by truck or by bus depending on group size), Transfer Puerto Ayora – Isabela – Puerto Ayora by public speedboat

Exclusions: Air Tickets to/from Galapagos, Galapagos National Park Entry Fee – USD$100, Isabela Dock Fee – USD$5, Migratory Control Card – USD$20, Water taxi from dock – speedboat – USD$1 per person/per ride, Soft-drinks and alcoholic beverages, Gratuities

Reviewed By C3923YMchristinaf

I cannot stress enough how flawless this experience was. The communication before, during and after the trip was amazing. I traveled during the pandemic as a solo female traveler and had zero concerns. From the airlines to guides, to transfers, to the food and excursions. Snorkeling, hiking, biking, kayaking, and wildlife galore! Every step of the way everything was handled safely and responsibly. Animals everywhere and minimal people. Just what I needed! There literally could not be a better time to travel to the Galapagos. Nothing was ruined, canceled or impacted. I am so glad I moved forward with my trip and I highly encourage others to do the same. Do not hesitate. Book the trip!!! I will use this company again to plan an Amazon vacation.

6. Los Tuneles Snorkeling Day Tour

Puerto Villamil, Ecuador Rebecca Adventure Travel
Excellent
100%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 4 reviews

Around Los Tuneles you will find a highly contrasted colour for snorkeling with clear, calm water. Additionally, the lava flows that passed through this area had formed unique geological formations which are, of course, shaped like tunnels. You will get the chance to spot large quantities of seabirds such as the Albatros, Flamingos, Blue Footed Boobies and the magnificent Frigate bird. Besides, you can find species feeding such as tortoises, swimming iguanas, sea lions, manta rays, Galapagos penguins, lobsters, and sea snakes.

Inclusions: Transfer to and from Los Tuneles by speedboat, Snack on the boat, Snorkeling equipment, English speaking naturalist guide (Local Galapagos guide)

Exclusions: For rent: wetsuit (recommended between May – November): $ 10 p.p. per day (cash only), Watertaxi to Isabela port $ 1 p.p. per way (cash only), Personal travel & health insurance, Optional tips for the guide

Reviewed By mbennaton

We (my husband and I ) had an amazing time in the Galapagos Islands! We did this trip at the end of October 2020 after the stressful lockdown covid months, so we were looking forward to unwind and visit for the first time the enchanted islands as our vacation. The tours designed by Rebecca Adventure were perfect and customized to our taste and needs. We visited Santa Cruz and Isabela and it was perfect because there weren't many tourists at the time due to the pandemic. We were truly impressed with all the activities, the wildlife and the services provided by our tour guides. We got to see most of the land and marine fauna that we expected, including hammerhead sharks. It was without a doubt one of the most memorable trips of our lives. We highly recommend Rebecca Adventure as your tour agency for the Galapagos and Ecuador. Biosecurity measures were very well respected on the islands, so its safe to travel! If you're looking to come to Ecuador and the Galapagos this is the time, still less tourists, the wildlife is truly impressive and besides life is short, take risks and ENJOY IT!

7. 7-Day Galapagos Island Hopping Budget

Rebecca Adventure Travel
Excellent
100%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 2 reviews

This 7 day Galapagos Island Hopping Budget tour shows you the best of Santa Cruz & Isabela island. You will have different (day) trips by boat, or with the car. You will probably see blue-footed boobies, sea lions, flamingos, and tortoises. You stay in tourist class hotels and all the activities are shared with other travelers. In these 7 days you will be amazed by all the beauty the Galapagos Islands have to offer, making it a perfect Galapagos holiday!

Inclusions: Lunch, Breakfast, Lunch, Lunch, Breakfast, Breakfast, Lunch, Breakfast, Lunch, Breakfast, Accommodation in a single, double or triple room., Airport pickup and drop off at Baltra airport at your arrival/departure time., Transportation between Baltra Airport – Itabaca Channel each way, Transportation on and between the Islands as described in the itinerary., Local naturalist guide (English & Spanish speaking)., Snorkeling equipment: mask, snorkel, fins and life vest., 24/7 assistance in English, Dutch and Spanish.

Exclusions: Return flights from mainland Ecuador to Galapagos Islands., Food & drinks that are not mentioned in the itinerary., Entrance fee for the Galapagos National Park., Migratory Control Card / Ingala Transit Card: $ 20 p.p. – cash only., Isabela dock fee: $ 10 p.p. cash only., Water Taxi around $ 1 p.p. (small boat that takes you from the speedboat to the harbor and back)., For rent: wetsuit (recommended between May – November): $ 5 p.p. per day – cash only., Personal travel & health insurance.

Reviewed By W2132NIcarrieb

We normally do not do guided trips, but I am so glad we chose Rebecca Travel. There are a lot of logistics getting around the Galapagos and it was so much easier to have them coordinate a land trip. They customized the trip we wanted. The guides were really nice and easy going. There is so much to learn from them and I’m glad they were there to give as much information as possible. I also felt the price was very good for what was included - hikes, scuba, snorkel, lunches, snacks, nice hotels, etc. This was truly one of the best trips we ever had and besides the beauty of the islands, it was also due to Karina and the team at Rebecca Travel.

8. Galapagos and Ecuador Multisport 12 days

ActivExpedition
Excellent
100%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 1 reviews

When you are in the land of All in One Place you might as well take advantage and EXPERIENCE all there is to offer. Made for adventurers seeking a human-powered holiday this is the perfect combo for friends or families who want to experience the best of Ecuador. From exploring above land and below the sea with biking, snorkeling and kayaking in the Galapagos; traversing from Andes to Amazon paddling and canyoning your way down winding rivers; to immersing yourself in the culture while spending time with the local indigenous people. More than an expedition this is a once-in-a-lifetime journey! Accommodation is provided at charming eco-lodges and hotels.

Inclusions: Dinner, Lunch, Lunch, Breakfast, Breakfast, Lunch, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Lunch, Top Experienced Certified English-Speaking Guide, Private Land Transport, Shared Water Transport, Accommodation for eleven nights, Water and snacks at all time, Water bottle, Biking gear: Hybrid bikes, certified helmets and gloves, Paddling gear: Seat on top double kayaks and paddles, 8 – 10 people rafts., Snorkeling gear: Mask and fins, Trekking gear: Black diamond poles, Canyoning gear: Harnesses, helmets and rubber boots

Exclusions: International or domestic flights, Galapagos transit control card INGALA, Galapagos National Park fee, Isabela Island fee, Airport transfers for international flights, Meals not mentioned in the itinerary, Tips for guides and drivers, Travel insurance (mandatory), Optional activities

Reviewed By CrickettAndrew

Had an amazing time learning Enduro/Downhill from Christian and his team. I will most definitely use ActivExpeditions again.

9. 5-day Galapagos on a Budget Experience

Takiri Travel
Excellent
86%
Good
14%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

4.9 based on 7 reviews

Discover the life of Galapagos Islands on an experience you will never forget! Cruise the waters of the pacific in a speedboat on your way to Isabella Islands, admire the pink flamingos in the salt lagoons of Isabela, snorkel in the waters of Los Tuneles Cabo Rosa, a world top snorkeling destination, with great chances to see a huge variety of Galapagos endemic wildlife, and explore Tintoreras Islet, where the endemic white reef sharks live. Swim with penguins, sharks and even the friendly sea lions! Explore the wetlands of Isabela, visiting the wall of tears, the lava tunnels and more. Visit the highlands of Santa Cruz and get to see the giant Galapagos tortoises in the nature, learn about Charles Darwin and its theory of species in his research center, stop by the curious twin craters and be amazed by everything this paradise has to offer!

Inclusions: Lunch, Lunch, Lunch, Breakfast, Lunch, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Transportation: Airport pick up and drop off, inter-island and land transportation for activities, Accommodation: Tourist class hotels, Equipment: snorkeling masks and fins during activities, English and Spanish speaking local guides in Galapagos National Park + 24/7 support from our team.

Exclusions: Travel Insurance, Optional tips for guides, Galapagos entree costs: INGALA transit card (20 USD pp), Galapagos National Park Fee (100 USD pp), Flights to and from Galapagos, 10 USD pier fee at Puerto Villamil + inside airport bus service (5 USD pp)

Reviewed By Milton T

The tour was organized from start to finish. I had arranged snorkeling and other day trips which let me explore the galapagos (Isabella, Santa Cruz, and Floreana). Everything was smooth and I had an incredible experience I think I’ll seldom be able to experience again. Highly recommend Takiri travel and all associates tour guides.

10. 5-Day Galapagos Island Hopping Budget

Rebecca Adventure Travel
Excellent
67%
Good
33%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

4.7 based on 3 reviews

This Galapagos Island Hopping Tour is designed for travelers on a budget who want to see the highlights of the Galapagos Islands and enjoy plenty of activities. This tour includes an English speaking guide for every day, standard tourist class hotels with a private room and bathroom, several meals, transportation and the activities as mentioned in the tour summary. Enjoy your holiday with a visit to the magical Galapagos Islands.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Breakfast, Breakfast, Lunch, Breakfast, Lunch, Accommodation in a single, double or triple room., Airport pickup and drop off at Baltra airport at your arrival/departure time., Transportation between Baltra Airport – Itabaca Channel each way., Transportation on and between the Islands as described in the itinerary., Local naturalist guide (English & Spanish speaking), Snorkeling equipment: mask, snorkel, fins and life vest., 24/7 assistance in English, Dutch and Spanish.

Exclusions: Round trip flights from mainland Ecuador to Galapagos Islands., Food & drinks that are not mentioned in the itinerary., Entrance fee for the Galapagos National Park., Migratory Control Card / Ingala Transit Card: $ 20 p.p. (cash only), Isabela dock fee: $ 10 p.p. (cash only), Water Taxi around $ 1 p.p. (small boat that takes you from the speedboat to the harbor and back), For rent: wetsuit (recommended between May – November): $ 5 p.p. per day (cash only), Personal travel & health insurance., Optional tips for the guide.

Reviewed By mbennaton

We (my husband and I ) had an amazing time in the Galapagos Islands! We did this trip at the end of October 2020 after the stressful lockdown covid months, so we were looking forward to unwind and visit for the first time the enchanted islands as our vacation. The tours designed by Rebecca Adventure were perfect and customized to our taste and needs. We visited Santa Cruz and Isabela and it was perfect because there weren't many tourists at the time due to the pandemic. We were truly impressed with all the activities, the wildlife and the services provided by our tour guides. We got to see most of the land and marine fauna that we expected, including hammerhead sharks. It was without a doubt one of the most memorable trips of our lives. We highly recommend Rebecca Adventure as your tour agency for the Galapagos and Ecuador. Biosecurity measures were very well respected on the islands, so its safe to travel! If you're looking to come to Ecuador and the Galapagos this is the time, still less tourists, the wildlife is truly impressive and besides life is short, take risks and ENJOY IT!

ThingsTodoPost © 2018 - 2024 All rights reserved.