Day Tour to Isabela Island With Tintorera Islet, Snorkeling Wetlands & Flamingos

Isabela Island, the largest in the Galapagos archipelago, beckons with its stunning natural wonders. This day tour immerses visitors in the island’s diverse ecosystems, from the captivating Tintorera Islet to the vibrant underwater realm. Travelers can expect to encounter marine iguanas, sharks, and the iconic Galapagos penguins, as well as flamingos in the serene wetlands. With an expert-guided exploration and a delectable Ecuadorian lunch, this adventure promises an unforgettable experience in this enchanting paradise.

Key Points

• A 93% approval-rated day tour to Isabela Island, priced at $269 per person with a maximum of 16 travelers.
• Highlights include visiting Tintorera Islet, snorkeling in the island’s underwater world, and exploring wetlands and the Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre.
• Includes use of snorkeling equipment, coverage of entry fees, boat tour with a naturalist guide, and private driver transport.
• Meeting point at Guiding Galapagos Expeditions in Puerto Ayora, with the tour starting at 06:15 am and ending back at the meeting point.
• Overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 105 reviews, with praise for the tour’s efficiency, knowledgeable guides, and incredible wildlife sightings.

Tour Overview

The day tour to Isabela Island provides travelers with the opportunity to explore the stunning natural wonders of this Galapagos destination.

This highly recommended tour, with a 93% approval rating, offers a full-day itinerary that includes visiting Tintorera Islet, snorkeling in the island’s wetlands, and observing the iconic flamingos.

Priced at $269 per person, the tour accommodates a maximum of 16 travelers and is confirmed within 48 hours of booking.

Travellers can expect a seamless experience with all necessary equipment, transportation, and entry fees included in the cost.

Itinerary Highlights

Visitors to Isabela Island can expect an engaging itinerary that showcases the island’s diverse natural wonders.

The tour begins with a visit to Tintorera Islet, home to marine iguanas, sharks, and penguins. Next, guests will have the opportunity to snorkel in the island’s underwater world, discovering the vibrant marine life.

The wetlands, habitat for flamingos, and the Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre are also part of the exploration.

To cap off the day, travelers will enjoy a typical Ecuadorian lunch at a beachside restaurant, allowing them to enjoy the local culture.

Inclusions

The tour package includes the use of snorkeling equipment and wetsuits, both long and short.

Snorkeling equipment and both long and short wetsuits are included in the tour package.

Also included are:

• Fuel surcharge, lunch, soda/pop, and entry fee to the Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre ($10 per person)
• Boat tour with naturalist guide and round-trip transport on a comfortable speedboat
• Private driver transport during the stay on Isabela Island
• Mesh bag for snorkel equipment and wetsuit storage

Plus, the Municipal fee of Isabela Island ($10 per person) and water taxis ($0.50/$1 per person) are covered, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

Meeting and Accessibility

Meeting point for the day tour is at Guiding Galapagos Expeditions, located on Calle Enrique Fuentes 106 in Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island.

The tour starts at 06:15 am and ends back at the meeting point.

While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller accessible and near public transportation.

Infants must sit on laps, and the tour is suitable for most travelers without serious medical conditions.

The tour isn’t recommended for those with mobility issues, as the boat ride can be rough at times.

Customer Feedback

The day tour to Isabela Island has received an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 105 reviews.

Travelers have praised the tour’s efficiency, knowledgeable guides, and incredible wildlife sightings. Some highlights include:

• Snorkeling with sharks, sea turtles, and a variety of marine life
• Seeing the Tintorera Islet’s unique inhabitants like marine iguanas, sharks, and penguins
• Exploring the island’s wetlands and observing the stunning flamingos
• Enjoying a delicious Ecuadorian lunch at a beachside restaurant

While a few guests noted rough boat rides, they still appreciated the overall experience and organization of the tour.

This day trip is widely recommended as a must-do for visitors to the Galapagos.

Visiting Tintorera Islet

Situated off the northwestern coast of Isabela Island, Tintorera Islet captivates visitors with its diverse array of marine life.

Home to marine iguanas, Galapagos penguins, and the elusive Galapagos shark, the islet offers a unique opportunity to observe these fascinating creatures up close.

Travelers can spot the sleek silhouettes of the sharks gliding through the clear waters and witness the comical antics of the penguins as they navigate the rocky terrain.

Exploring the islet’s natural wonders is a highlight of the day tour, providing an immersive encounter with the Galapagos’ iconic wildlife.

Snorkeling in the Underwater World

As part of the day tour, travelers have the opportunity to enjoy the underwater wonders surrounding Isabela Island.

The snorkeling experience provides a glimpse into the vibrant marine life of the Galapagos. Travelers can expect to encounter:

Travelers can expect to encounter diverse schools of tropical fish, playful sea lions, majestic sea turtles, and curious marine iguanas while snorkeling in the Galapagos.

• Diverse schools of tropical fish, including parrotfish, angelfish, and surgeonfish.
• Playful sea lions gracefully gliding through the water.
• Majestic sea turtles leisurely feeding on the ocean floor.
• Curious marine iguanas and the occasional Galapagos penguin.

With provided snorkeling gear and wetsuits, travelers can fully enjoy this unique aquatic ecosystem.

Exploring Wetlands and the Breeding Centre

After exploring the vibrant underwater world through snorkeling, the tour shifts focus to the unique wetlands and breeding center on Isabela Island.

Travelers will witness the island’s natural habitat, home to a thriving population of flamingos.

The tour also includes a visit to the Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre, providing an opportunity to learn about the conservation efforts for these iconic Galapagos species.

Throughout the exploration, the knowledgeable naturalist guide will share insightful information, enhancing the overall understanding and appreciation of the island’s diverse ecosystems.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Equipment Is Required for the Snorkeling Activity?

The tour includes use of snorkeling equipment and wetsuits, both long and short, for the snorkeling activity. Travelers don’t need to bring their own gear as it’s provided as part of the tour.

Are There Any Age or Fitness Restrictions for This Tour?

There are no strict age or fitness restrictions, as infants can sit on laps and most travelers can participate. However, the tour is not wheelchair accessible, though it is stroller accessible. Travelers should be able to get in and out of the boat.

Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Gear Instead of the Provided Equipment?

Yes, travelers can use their own snorkeling gear instead of the provided equipment. However, the tour includes wetsuits, which may be required for the snorkeling activities, so bringing your own gear doesn’t necessarily save you money.

Is It Possible to Extend the Tour to Include an Overnight Stay?

The tour doesn’t include an overnight stay, but you can extend your visit to Isabela Island. Many travelers recommend an overnight stay to explore the island more thoroughly and see additional wildlife.

How Does the Boat Transportation Work Between the Islands?

The tour includes round-trip boat transport by comfortable speedboat from the meeting point on Santa Cruz Island to Isabela Island. The boat ride takes travelers between the islands as part of the day’s itinerary.

The Sum Up

This day tour to Isabela Island offers an unforgettable experience. Visitors can witness marine iguanas, sharks, and penguins on Tintorera Islet, snorkel in vibrant waters, and explore the wetlands home to flamingos and the Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre. With experienced naturalist guides, visitors are sure to have a seamless and memorable adventure in this Galapagos paradise.