San Cristóbal is the easternmost island in the Galapagos archipelago. The island offers unlimited opportunities for nature enthusiasts to witness some unique spectacular natural wonders. As the administrative center of the Galapagos, the island boasts some wonderful shopping and dining opportunities as well as one of the local airports. Take a break from snorkeling and hiking to enjoy the best of Ecuadorian cuisine and to admire some of the exquisite artwork and designs of local artisans. Must see attraction include: the Galapaguera Tortoise Reserve; the Interpretation Center which provides important background information on the Galapagos; and Puerto Grande, a protected cove on the north-western side of the island which boasts a magnificent white sandy beach - ideal for a peaceful walk, swimming and photographic opportunities.
The island of Santa Cruz is home to Puerto Ayora, the largest and most developed town in the Galapagos. While many visitors use this island as merely a springboard for the more remote surrounding islands, those who dig a little deeper will discover that this island has plenty to offer. With numerous visitor sites, easily accessible beaches and remote highlands in the interior, Santa Cruz makes an excellent base for adventurous activities. The most popular attraction is undoubtedly the Charles Darwin Station which offers an impressive turtle breeding area and interesting information about the conservation of the unique biosphere of the Galapagos. Don’t miss the opportunity to swim or snorkel at one of the island’s magnificent beaches where you will find white sand and turquoise waters as well as an abundance of fascinating wildlife including pelicans, blue-footed boobies, and marine iguanas.
Isabela Island is the largest island in Ecuador's Galápagos archipelago, lying about 1,000 km off the country's Pacific coast. A spectacular volcanic and wildlife destination, it is home to five active volcanoes, extensive lava landscapes, wetlands and rich coastal ecosystems. Travellers can hike around the vast caldera of Sierra Negra, explore lava formations at Volcán Chico and encounter giant tortoises, flamingos, marine iguanas and other distinctive Galápagos wildlife. Along the coast, snorkelling at Tintoreras offers encounters with sea lions, sea turtles, rays and marine iguanas, while boat trips can reach wildlife-rich sites such as Elizabeth Bay and Punta Vicente Roca. Puerto Villamil provides a laid-back base for exploring the island's beaches, lagoons and nature trails, combining remarkable wildlife encounters with dramatic volcanic landscapes.
