Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
and visit within the time frame of most tours, especially since the
main sights are on the island's far west side. Few standard tours un-
der two weeks in length visit Isabela, unless they skip the othermajor
islands.
One of Isabela'smain attractions is at UrbinaBay , about midway up
the island's west coast. This uplifted plateau was underwater until
1954, as evidenced by embedded coral and other marine life. The area
provides a good opportunity to see large marine iguanas, pelicans,
flightless cormorants, sea turtles, and some of the few remaining
mangrove finches . The impressive Volcán Alcedo , 4,144 feet
high, is visible fromhere. If you have the time, do an overnight hike to
the rim of the caldera. It offers active fumaroles and a spectacular
view, and is the best place in the Galápagos to witness giant tortoises
at home. Other overnight hikes include Volcán Cerro Azul and
Volcán Negra (Santo Tomás) . All of these hikes require permits
and a willingness to rough it. Inquire well in advance at the National
Park office in Puerto Ayora,
5-526-189. Nearby is Tagus Cove ,
where early sailors often anchored. Look closely and you may spot
their graffiti scratched into the side of the cliffs, as well as possibly the
Galápagos penguin and flightless cormorant.
South of Urbina Bay is ElizabethBay (there is no place to dock here)
and farther west is Punta Moreno . A dry landing is available, as
well as a rough trail over lava flows and among brackish pools. Wild-
life here is less abundant and diverse than on other islands that have
been around longer. Nevertheless, pioneering species are evident, as
well penguins and other shore birds.
The main “town” is Puerto Villamil , along the south coast of the is-
land, and inhabited by a few thousand people, with the smaller vil-
lage of Santo Tomás inland from here. You can arrange trips to the
interior of the island from Villamil.
Fernandina Island
Fernandina Island, located midway along Isabela's western side, is
the third-largest of the islands at 248 squaremiles. It is also the youn-
gest island in the archipelago, characterized by beautiful lava forma-
tions and incredibly large populations of the endemic marine iguana.
The visitors' arrival site, at Punta Espinosa , is on the northeastern
tip of the island near Tagus Cove . In addition to the marine iguana,
expect to see flightless cormorants, sea lions, and, if you're lucky,
Galápagos penguins. Keep in mind that the volcano is still active.
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