Amazing Isabela by Scalesia Lodge

The first visit today is to Tintoreras, a stunning islet with fascinating lava flows, accessible via a short dinghy ride from Puerto Villamil. Here there are excellent snorkeling opportunities and the chance to spot species like the Galapagos penguin, marine iguana, and sea lions. The islet is so named for the white tipped reef sharks found here, so there is a good chance to spot these creatures too. After lunch at the hotel this afternoon’s visit is to Los Humedales and the Tortoise Breeding Station. At Los Humedales, explore the mangroves, lava tunnels and beaches, looking out for flamingos. The Tortoise Breeding Station provides an opportunity to learn about the protection of these animals. Animal highlights today: Galapagos penguin, giant tortoises, marine iguana, white-tipped reef shark.

Animal highlights today: Galapagos penguin, giant tortoises, marine iguana, white-tipped reef shark.

Los Tuneles provides a superb example of lava flow formations which have been worn away by the waves. There are interesting tunnels, bridges and arches to observe. The site is accessed by a fast boat ride of 30-40 minutes. At this unique spot you can experience one of the best snorkeling sites off Isabela Island in calm, crystal clear waters. Wildlife here includes rays, parrot fish and yellowtail surgeon fish. You may also see sea turtles, white tipped reef sharks, boobies, and sea lions. After lunch at the lodge you can choose between active pursuits such as biking, surfing, or kayaking for an extra cost, or you can kick back at Puerto Villamil’s superb beach.

Wildlife to look for today: Sea lions, manta rays, parrot fish, yellowtail surgeon fish, sea turtles.

Today provides the opportunity to walk on two active volcanoes: Sierra Negra and Chico Volcano. The walk totals six hours. At Volcan Chico there are captivating sulfur vents to view, and Sierra Negra’s crater is believed to be the second biggest worldwide, at 6 miles (10 kilometers). Sierra Negra is highly active and last erupted in 2005. After returning to the lodge for lunch, venture out again to Sucre’s Cave, close to the port of Villamil. The endemic plant species here are intriguing, and beyond this at Mirador de Mango there are fabulous views of Isabela. Do not forget to look out for Darwin’s finches here.

Today’s wildlife highlights: Darwin’s finches, lava lizards, other birds.

The first visit today is to Tintoreras, a stunning islet with fascinating lava flows, accessible via a short dinghy ride from Puerto Villamil. Here there are excellent snorkeling opportunities and the chance to spot species like the Galapagos penguin, marine iguana, and sea lions. The islet is so named for the white tipped reef sharks found here, so there is a good chance to spot these creatures too. After lunch at the hotel this afternoon’s visit is to Los Humedales and the Tortoise Breeding Station. At Los Humedales, explore the mangroves, lava tunnels and beaches, looking out for flamingos. The Tortoise Breeding Station provides an opportunity to learn about the protection of these animals.

Wildlife highlights today: Galapagos penguin, giant tortoises, marine iguana, white-tipped reef shark.

Los Tuneles provides a superb example of lava flow formations which have been worn away by the waves. There are interesting tunnels, bridges and arches to observe. The site is accessed by a fast boat ride of 30-40 minutes. At this unique spot you can experience one of the best snorkeling sites off Isabela Island in calm, crystal clear waters. Wildlife here includes rays, parrot fish and yellowtail surgeon fish. You may also see sea turtles, white tipped reef sharks, boobies, and sea lions. After lunch at the lodge you can choose between active pursuits such as biking, surfing, or kayaking for an extra cost, or you can kick back at Puerto Villamil’s superb beach.

Wildlife to look for today: Sea lions, manta rays, parrot fish, yellowtail surgeon fish, sea turtles.

Today provides the opportunity to walk on two active volcanoes: Sierra Negra and Chico Volcano. The walk totals six hours. At Volcan Chico there are captivating sulfur vents to view, and Sierra Negra’s crater is believed to be the second biggest worldwide, at 6 miles (10 kilometers). Sierra Negra is highly active and last erupted in 2005. After returning to the lodge for lunch, venture out again to Sucre’s Cave, close to the port of Villamil. The endemic plant species here are intriguing, and beyond this at Mirador de Mango there are fabulous views of Isabela. Do not forget to look out for Darwin’s finches here.

Today’s wildlife highlights: Darwin’s finches, lava lizard and other endemic species.

This morning we head to a site that was constructed by prisoners from a penal colony on Isabela Island between 1945 and 1959. Many prisoners died during the building of this large wall which is 65 feet high and 300 feet long. Lunch is at the lodge and in the afternoon, there is a snorkeling opportunity at Concha Perla. Concha Perla has calm waters and is shallow, making it a fantastic spot to view the kaleidoscope of colorful marine life beneath the water’s surface. You may see the Galapagos penguin, sea turtles, tropical fish, and sea lions. This is also a popular site for a variety of bird life. You may also bike, surf, or hike for an additional fee.

Wildlife highlights today: Galapagos penguin, flamingos, sea turtle, marine iguana, frigate birds.