Sierra Negra Volcano

Sierra Negra is located 13 miles from Puerto Villamil and boasts the world's second largest volcanic crater, measuring 6 miles in diameter and 300 metres deep. This volcano has three visitor sites:

La Bocanilla

Volcan Chico

Volcan de Azufre

El Estero

The trail to the Estero allows you to closely observe the mangrove eco systems unique to Isabela and the largest black mangrove trees in Galapagos.

It is one of the most unique, interesting visitor sites in the archipelago. Here a freshwater spring forms a river during low tide that flows into a sandy bay where various sea birds and marine life can be observed.

Los Tuneles

Los Tuneles are located approx. 60 minutes by boat from Puerto Villamil. This site is one of the most spectacular places for snorkelling in Isabela as the water is shallow, clear and calm. This marine sanctuary is characterized by its unique geologic formations.

A series of lava flows have produced a number of arches and tunnels both under and above water, where you find a number of animal species that have taken up residence in these magnificent formations.The entry into this site is shallow and the waves can be quite strong, for this reason it is not always feasible to enter this site. The best season to visit is between the months of January and May.
Wall of Tears

The Wall of Tears is a historic site in Isabela. Between 1946 and 1959 Isabela was a penal colony, where prisoners were made build a wall with huge blocks of lava as punishment.
The wall is 100 metres long and 7 metres high. Due to the arduous labour and harsh conditions in which the prisoners lived, this site is known as the wall of tears.A set of stairs provides a bird's eye view of the wall and the surrounding landscape. You can still see the cement foundations of the USA base dating back to the Second World War.
Giant Tortoise Breeding Center

A 1.2km trail passes from Puerto Villamil to the Breeding Center through various ecosystems. Along the trail you will see many different types of plants and animals in the lagoon and mangrove, dry forest and lava ecosystems that are found only on Galapagos.

In the Breeding Centre you will be able to observe tortoises of all ages and sizes. You will also learn about the reproduction and rearing of giant tortoises and see all the work that is being carried out to help recover the wild populations of these species. There is also a visitor's centre and a gift shop where local handmade products are sold. Las Tintoreras


A short distance from Puerto Villamil is the small island known as 'Las Tintoreras'. Here a colony of white tip sharks can often be seen resting in a lava canal. You can snorkel or swim in the unique habitat of these animals.Nearby hundreds of marine iguanas can be observed, as 'Las Tintoreras' is one of their main breeding sites. On the nearby sandy beaches, sea lions play and relax in the sun. This is one of Isabela's most beautiful visitor sites.
Concha de Perla



This is the perfect spot for those who love swimming or snorkelling! Concha de Perla is a shallow, calm bay with crystal clear water that allows you to enjoy the fascinating marine life of Galapagos. If you are lucky you will be able to swim with sea lions and penguins.