Upon arrival to Puerto Villamil – Isabela Island. Meet & greet,
transfer to Scalesia Lodge. Rest of the afternoon on your own
to enjoy the lodge. Overnight at Scalesia Lodge. (D)
AM: Tintoreras PM: Los Humedales and Tortoise Breeding Station
Morning visit to the Tintoreras, an islet formed by lava flows located 10 minutes by dinghy from Puerto Villamil. Its name comes from the white tip reef sharks called in Spanish Tintoreras which are frequently seen in this area. Different species of animals can be seen in the area as sea lions, marine iguanas and penguins. This is a perfect place to practice snorkeling. Return to the hotel by lunch time. In the afternoon visit los Humedales, a complex with various trails where you can find the four species of mangroves existing in Galapagos. This area is characterized by solitary beaches, lava tunnels, natural pools and estuaries where you can see flamingos and other birds.
You will also visit the Turtle breeding center where the National park is breeding turtles in danger of extinction. Some of this giant turtles have been released by the park and can be found on the trails. Overnight at Scalesia Lodge. (B,L,D) Tintoreras Tour: Accompanied with a private guide Highlights: White-tipped reef sharks, penguins, marine turtles, sea lions, marine iguanas Dry landing / Wet landing
AM: Volcan Chico & Sierra Negra PM: Beach
Today you will visit some of Isabela´s best attractions, the Sierra Negra and Chico Volcano. Sierra Negra is one of the most active volcanoes of the archipelago, its recent eruption took place in 2005. The volcanos crater is considered the second largest in the world with a diameter of 10kms. Volcan Chico is also an active volcano, sulfur vents can be seen in this area. This is an approximately 6 hours walk tour to appreciate all the splendor of the volcanoes. You will enjoy a snack in the area.
Return to Scalesia Lodge for lunch. In the afternoon free time to enjoy the magical beach of Puerto Villamil or enjoy one of the following activities for extra cost: biking, surfing or kayaking. Overnight at Scalesia Lodge. (B,L,D) Highlights: Basaltic caldera, stunning views, finches Dry landing
AM: Wall of tears PM: Concha de Perla snorkel
Morning visit to the wall of tears. It is a historical site 5 km west of Puerto Villamil. It was constructed between the years of 1945 and 1959 by prisoners in the penal colony on the island. The wall reaches up to 65 feet and runs over 300 feet long and its construction was dangerous work in the ill – equipped conditions resulting in the deaths of a number of prisoners from both sickness and calamity. In the afternoon enjoy snorkeling. Located in the Port of Villamil, the Concha Perla can be reached via a wooden pathway.
The bays calm, shallow, clear waters are ideal for observing the incredible array of marine life. Visitors can swim and snorkel alongside tropical fish, sea lions, penguins and turtles and it is also possible to observe up to 20 bird species. Overnight at Scalesia Lodge. (B,L,D) Highlights: Sea lions, penguins, turtles, marine iguanas, frigates, flamingos. Dry landing / Wet landing
Early transfer to return to Puerto Ayora or Baltra (B)