Exploring Puerto Villamil: A Traveler's Guide to Isabela, Galapagos

The Galapagos Islands are a dream destination for many nature lovers, adventure seekers, and wildlife enthusiasts.

Among these islands, Isabela stands out for its stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife, and its main town, Puerto Villamil, is a charming and peaceful place that serves as the gateway to this incredible natural wonder.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the must-visit spots, activities, dining, and accommodation options, along with helpful travel tips to make the most of your visit to Puerto Villamil on Isabela Island.

Where is Puerto Villamil?

Puerto Villamil, a small town located on the southern coast of Isabela Island, is one of the quieter, less commercialized destinations in the Galapagos.

With its laid-back atmosphere, sandy streets, and pristine beaches, it offers a relaxing alternative to the busier towns on other islands like Santa Cruz or San Cristobal.

The town is surrounded by natural wonders—volcanic landscapes, lagoons, and mangroves—making it a perfect base for exploring the island's diverse ecosystems and wildlife.

Getting to Puerto Villamil, Isabela

To reach Puerto Villamil, travelers typically fly into Baltra Island or San Cristobal Island—the two main airports in the Galapagos—before taking a ferry or small flight to Isabela.

From Baltra, you can take a ferry from Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz, to Puerto Villamil, which takes about 2-3 hours.

Another option is a small inter-island flight, which offers stunning aerial views of the Galapagos and takes only 30 minutes.

Regardless of your method of arrival, the journey to Isabela is an adventure in itself, setting the tone for an unforgettable experience.

Best Time to Visit Puerto Villamil

The Galapagos Islands have two main seasons: the warm, wet season from December to May and the cool, dry season from June to November.

Both seasons offer unique experiences, but the best time to visit largely depends on the activities you want to do.

• Warm, Wet Season (December-May): This is the ideal time for snorkeling and diving, as the water temperatures are warmer, and marine life is more active. The landscape is lush and green due to the frequent rain showers.
• Cool, Dry Season (June-November): While the water is cooler, this is the best time for wildlife watching, especially marine species like penguins and sea lions. The Humboldt Current brings nutrient-rich waters, attracting large marine creatures like whales and sharks.

Top Attractions in Puerto Villamil

Flamingo Lagoon

Flamingo Lagoon (Laguna de los Flamingos) is one of the largest coastal lagoons in the Galapagos and is home to the largest population of flamingos in the islands.

Located just outside Puerto Villamil, this peaceful area is perfect for a morning or afternoon stroll. You can watch the elegant pink birds feed in the shallow waters while surrounded by the backdrop of volcanic mountains.

Concha de Perla

If you enjoy snorkeling, Concha de Perla is a must-visit spot. This calm bay near Puerto Villamil is known for its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life.

Here, you can snorkel alongside playful sea lions, colorful fish, marine iguanas, and even the occasional sea turtle or manta ray. The area is also great for swimming, thanks to its sheltered location.

Wall of Tears (El Muro de las Lágrimas)

A visit to the Wall of Tears is both a historical and scenic experience. This 100-meter-long wall was built by prisoners when Isabela Island served as a penal colony in the 1940s and 1950s.

The hike to the wall takes you through diverse ecosystems—mangroves, lagoons, and lava fields—offering excellent wildlife viewing along the way. The wall stands as a stark reminder of the island’s history, and the trail provides panoramic views of the coastline and volcanoes.

Sierra Negra Volcano

For those who love hiking and volcanoes, a trek to the Sierra Negra Volcano is one of the most rewarding activities on Isabela.

Sierra Negra is one of the most active volcanoes in the Galapagos, and its massive crater is the second-largest in the world.

The hike is moderate, taking around 4-5 hours round-trip, and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding volcanic landscapes and neighboring islands.

On a clear day, you can even see the lava fields from past eruptions.

Las Tintoreras

Las Tintoreras is a small group of islets located just off the coast of Puerto Villamil. These volcanic formations are known for their unique wildlife, including marine iguanas, sea lions, and white-tipped reef sharks.

A guided tour will take you through this surreal landscape, where you'll walk on lava rock paths, observe iguana colonies, and snorkel in the calm waters to see sharks, rays, and tropical fish up close.

Outdoor Activities Around Puerto Villamil

Snorkeling and Diving

The waters around Isabela Island are a snorkeler’s paradise, with abundant marine life, crystal-clear visibility, and a variety of snorkeling spots.

Popular sites like Concha de Perla and Las Tintoreras offer excellent opportunities to swim with sea lions, marine iguanas, and colorful reef fish.

For more experienced adventurers, diving tours are available, providing the chance to explore deeper waters where you can encounter hammerhead sharks, manta rays, and schools of large fish.

Cape Marshall and Roca Redonda are some of the best dive sites around Isabela, known for their volcanic rock formations and pelagic species.

Kayaking and Paddleboarding

Puerto Villamil’s calm coastal waters are ideal for kayaking and paddleboarding. Renting a kayak or joining a guided tour is a fantastic way to explore the coast and nearby islets.

You’ll have the opportunity to paddle alongside playful sea lions, spot rays swimming just below the surface, and enjoy the beauty of the mangroves and volcanic shorelines.

Wildlife Watching

Wildlife is the star attraction in the Galapagos, and Puerto Villamil offers plenty of opportunities for encounters with the islands' iconic species.

Whether you're on land or in the water, you’ll likely see giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, marine iguanas, sea lions, and a wide variety of birds.

The Giant Tortoise Breeding Center in Puerto Villamil is a great place to learn about the conservation efforts to protect these ancient creatures, while the wetlands and lagoons are perfect for birdwatching.

Wildlife Encounters on Isabela

The Galapagos Islands are world-famous for their extraordinary wildlife, and Isabela is no exception.

Visitors can encounter animals that exist nowhere else on Earth, many of which are remarkably unafraid of humans due to the islands’ lack of natural predators.

• Giant Tortoises: Isabela is home to several sub-species of giant tortoises, and a visit to the Arnaldo Tupiza Breeding Center offers a chance to see these incredible animals up close.
• Marine Iguanas: These unique reptiles are common around Puerto Villamil, basking on the rocks or swimming in the sea.
• Blue-Footed Boobies: You can often spot these iconic birds on the rocky shores around Isabela, especially at Las Tintoreras.
• Galapagos Penguins: The world’s northernmost penguin species can be found on the western shores of Isabela, particularly in the waters around Las Tintoreras and Elizabeth Bay.

Where to Eat in Puerto Villamil

Local Cuisine

Puerto Villamil’s dining scene may be small, but it offers delicious local cuisine, with fresh seafood being a highlight.

Dishes like ceviche, grilled fish, and lobster are commonly served, often accompanied by rice and plantains.

Top Restaurants

• El Faro: This cozy beachfront restaurant serves excellent seafood dishes, including ceviche and grilled octopus.
• Shawarma Hot: A casual spot offering a mix of local and Middle Eastern-inspired dishes.
• Booby Trap: Known for its international menu and fresh seafood, it’s a favorite among travelers.

Getting Around Puerto Villamil

Puerto Villamil is a small town, and most places can be reached on foot or by bicycle.

Bikes are widely available for rent, making it easy to explore the town and nearby attractions like the Giant Tortoise Breeding Center and Flamingo Lagoon.

For longer journeys, such as the hike to the Wall of Tears or trips to the highlands, taxis (usually pick-up trucks) are readily available and affordable.

Tips for Sustainable Travel in the Galapagos

The Galapagos Islands are a fragile ecosystem, and it’s important to travel responsibly. Here are some tips to minimize your impact:

• Stick to designated trails and follow your guide’s instructions to avoid disturbing wildlife.
• Avoid single-use plastics and dispose of your trash properly.
• Support eco-friendly accommodations and tours that prioritize sustainability.
• Do not touch or feed wildlife, and keep a respectful distance from animals.

Puerto Villamil on Isabela Island offers an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking natural beauty, wildlife encounters, and outdoor adventures.

With its pristine beaches, unique volcanic landscapes, and diverse ecosystems, this charming town is a must-visit for anyone exploring the Galapagos Islands.

Whether you’re hiking the Sierra Negra Volcano, snorkeling with sea lions, or simply relaxing by the shore, Puerto Villamil will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.