Day Trip to Isabela Island and Tintoreras in Galápagos

The Galápagos Islands are a true wonder of nature, and a day trip to Isabela Island and Las Tintoreras offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the region’s unique wildlife up close. Travelers can expect to encounter a variety of species, from land turtles and flamingos to zarapitos, all while enjoying a personalized adventure with a small group. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking an unforgettable experience, this tour promises to leave a lasting impression. However, there are a few factors to consider before embarking on this journey.

Key Points

• This small-group day tour from Puerto Ayora explores the diverse wildlife of Isabela Island, including encounters with land turtles, flamingos, and zarapitos.
• Snorkeling at Las Tintoreras provides opportunities to see tropical fish, penguins, and turtles in their natural habitat.
• The tour includes hotel pickup, lunch, and snorkeling equipment, with a maximum group size of 15 people.
• Potential issues include motion sickness during the ferry ride and concerns about the quality and pricing of the included lunch.
• The tour may not be suitable for individuals with mobility challenges, and wetsuits are available for rent at an additional cost.

Tour Overview

The small-group day tour from Puerto Ayora to Isabela Island allows travelers to explore the diverse flora and fauna of the region.

The tour promises encounters with land turtles, flamingos, and zarapitos. Snorkeling at las Tintoreras offers the chance to swim with tropical fish, penguins, and turtles.

The tour promises encounters with land turtles, flamingos, and zarapitos. Snorkeling at las Tintoreras offers the chance to swim with tropical fish, penguins, and turtles.

Ideal for all travelers, the tour has a maximum group size of 15 people. Complimentary hotel pickup in Puerto Ayora and lunch on board are included.

With its diverse wildlife and aquatic activities, this tour provides an immersive Galápagos experience for a range of adventurous visitors.

Highlights of the Tour

Exploring the diverse flora and fauna is a highlight of this Isabela Island day tour. Visitors can spot iconic Galápagos species like land turtles, flamingos, and zarapitos (whimbrels).

The tour also includes swimming and snorkeling at Las Tintoreras, where they may encounter tropical fish, penguins, and sea turtles. This small-group experience, limited to 15 people, is suitable for all travelers.

Complimentary hotel pickup, lunch, and snorkeling equipment are included. However, travelers should plan for potential motion sickness during boat travel and be aware of additional costs like dock use tax and wetsuit rental.

Included and Additional Costs

This day tour includes a professional guide, snorkeling equipment (mask and fins), hotel pickup, lunch, and ferry transportation between Santa Cruz and Isabela islands.

However, visitors will need to pay an additional $10 dock use tax and $2 marine transportation fee on-site. Wetsuit rental isn’t included, which may be necessary for comfort during snorkeling.

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, providing flexibility for travelers.

While the inclusions cover most essentials, there are some additional costs to consider when budgeting for this Galápagos day trip.

Meeting and Pickup Details

Pickup from the hotel lobby (within the urban perimeter of Puerto Ayora) or a designated meeting point is provided.

The meeting point is at 7M2P+VF6, Puerto Ayora, Ecuador. Tour participants should arrive at the meeting point by 6:30 am as the tour departs promptly.

The tour ends back at the same meeting point. This small-group day tour has a maximum of 15 people, making it ideal for all travelers.

Customer Feedback and Reviews

Twelve reviews of the day trip to Isabela Island and Tintoreras offer an average rating of 4.0.

Travelers praise the wildlife sightings, including penguins, blue-footed boobies, flamingos, and sea turtles. They also highlight the knowledgeable guides and enjoyable snorkeling experience.

Travelers rave about the diverse wildlife and knowledgeable guides during the Isabela Island and Tintoreras day trip, with an enjoyable snorkeling experience.

However, some customers express disappointment with the rough ferry rides and overall discomfort during the trip. A few note issues with refunds through Viator.

Complaints about the quality and pricing of the included lunch are also mentioned.

While the tour generally receives positive feedback, the mixed experiences suggest areas for potential improvement.

Concerns and Considerations

Travelers should plan for potential motion sickness during the boat travel, as some reviews indicate issues with the rough ferry rides.

This tour may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges, as it’s not wheelchair accessible, and children must be accompanied by an adult.

While the tour includes snorkeling equipment, wetsuits are an additional cost.

Some customers have also expressed dissatisfaction with the quality and pricing of the provided lunch.

Preparing for the Tour

Although the tour includes hotel pickup and return to the meeting point, travelers should arrive at the designated location by 6:30 am to ensure a prompt departure.

The full-day itinerary covers a considerable distance, so it’s essential to be punctual. Travelers should also bring sun protection, comfortable walking shoes, and cash for the dock use tax and marine transportation fee.

With a full-day itinerary covering considerable distance, punctuality is crucial. Travelers should pack sun protection, comfortable shoes, and cash for necessary fees.

Snorkeling equipment is provided, but those who prefer a wetsuit can rent one on-site. To make the most of wildlife viewing, it’s recommended to bring binoculars and a camera.

Finally, packing light and hydrating well are key for a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Key Points

The day trip to Isabela Island and Tintoreras offers travelers a chance to enjoy the Galapagos’ diverse ecosystems.

From observing land turtles and flamingos to snorkeling with tropical fish, penguins, and turtles, the tour provides a comprehensive wildlife experience.

Though the ferry rides can be rough, the professional guides and complimentary services like hotel pickup and lunch make this an accessible option for all travelers.

Guests should plan for potential motion sickness and be aware of additional costs like taxes and wetsuit rentals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for People With Disabilities?

The tour is not suitable for people with disabilities, as it’s not wheelchair accessible and requires travelers to be accompanied by an adult if bringing children along.

Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Equipment?

Travelers can bring their own snorkeling equipment if they prefer, but the tour includes complimentary snorkeling gear (mask and fins). Using the provided equipment is more convenient, as it’s included in the tour price.

How Long Is the Travel Time Between Islands?

The travel time between Santa Cruz and Isabela Islands is approximately 2.5 hours each way via ferry. Travelers should plan for a total transit time of around 5 hours on the day trip.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but comfortable, lightweight clothing and closed-toe shoes are recommended. Bring a swimsuit, towel, and sun protection as you’ll be spending time outdoors and in the water.

Are Vegetarian/Vegan Meal Options Available?

The tour includes a complimentary lunch on board, but the availability of vegetarian or vegan meal options isn’t specified. Travelers with dietary requirements are advised to contact the tour operator in advance to discuss their needs.

The Sum Up

The day trip to Isabela Island and Las Tintoreras in the Galápagos offers an immersive wildlife experience, with opportunities to observe land turtles, flamingos, and zarapitos. While ferry rides and lunch quality may be concerns for some travelers, the tour’s small group size and included equipment make it an accessible way to explore the region’s unique ecosystems. Proper preparation and managing expectations can help ensure an unforgettable Galápagos adventure.