If you are planning to visit Isabela Island, you might be wondering what are the main tourist attractions that you should not miss. Isabela Island is the largest and most diverse of the Galapagos Islands, and it offers a variety of natural and cultural attractions for visitors. Here are some of the highlights that you can enjoy on Isabela Island:
» Volcanoes: Isabela Island is home to six active volcanoes, and you can hike to the rim of some of them to admire the stunning views and the unique wildlife. The most popular volcano to visit is Sierra Negra, which has the second largest caldera in the world. You can also explore the lava fields and tunnels of Volcan Chico, or see the fumaroles and geysers of Alcedo Volcano.
» Beaches: Isabela Island has some of the most beautiful beaches in the Galapagos, where you can relax, swim, snorkel, or surf. Some of the best beaches are Puerto Villamil, Concha de Perla, Playa del Amor, and Playa Barahona. You can also see marine iguanas, sea lions, penguins, flamingos, and other animals on the shore or in the water.
» Tintoreras: Tintoreras is a group of small islands near Puerto Villamil, where you can take a boat tour and see white-tip reef sharks, sea turtles, rays, and other marine life. You can also snorkel or kayak around the islands and observe the underwater world.
» Los Tuneles: Los Tuneles is a natural wonder formed by lava flows that created arches and tunnels in the sea. It is one of the best places to snorkel or dive in Isabela Island, as you can see a variety of fish, coral, sharks, turtles, seahorses, and more. You can also spot blue-footed boobies, frigate birds, and pelicans on the rocks.
» Wall of Tears: Wall of Tears is a historical site that was built by prisoners when Isabela Island was a penal colony. The wall is made of volcanic rocks that were carried by hand by the inmates as a form of punishment. The wall is about 25 meters high and 100 meters long, and it is a reminder of the harsh conditions that the prisoners faced. You can reach the wall by bike or by foot from Puerto Villamil.