Isabela (Albemarle) holidays
Isabela (Albemarle) holidays at a glance
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Isabela is the largest island in the Galápagos, and one of the youngest in geological terms. You can see it in the landscape. Five active volcanoes are linked by arid, twisted lava flows, many of them still bare of any soil or plant life. Down at the shoreline, craggy cliffs give way to sandy, speckled bays, a coastline that’s ideal for exploring by boat and on coastal hikes.
Puerto Villamil, the island’s main village, is where most land-based visits begin. It’s home to a tortoise breeding centre and a lagoon that’s often pink with flamingos, and it’s an easy-going base from which to explore the rest of the island.
Beyond the village, Isabela’s coast is layered with history and marine life. Tagus Cove is a natural harbour where pirates and whalers once carved their ships’ names into the rocks, and you can still see their graffiti today.
The coral reef at Urbina Bay is a magnet for marine creatures, while Punta Vicente Roca, the site of an ancient volcano, is one of the best marine sites in the archipelago to visit by boat or while snorkelling. Wildlife, volcanic landscapes, hiking and time in the water all play a part here, so Isabela Galápagos visits rarely feel short of things to discover.
Why choose Journey Latin America for your holiday to Isabela (Albemarle)
We’ve been planning trips to Central and South America for over 45 years, longer than any other UK specialist. Every holiday is built around you by a Travel Expert who has been to the places they recommend, with support from your first enquiry to the day you fly home.
Isabela Island feels wonderfully wild, where volcanic landscapes, extraordinary wildlife and superb snorkelling make every day feel like an adventure.
When to visit Isabela (Albemarle)
The Galápagos is a year-round destination, and wildlife is easy to spot in every month. There are two seasons, and the best time depends on the weather you prefer, how you want to explore and any wildlife events you’d like to catch.
The wet season in the Galapagos starts in December. During these months you can consistently expect clear blue skies, lots of sunshine and high temperatures (average highs of 26°C in December rising to 30°C in Feb). Snorkelers and divers will enjoy warm, calm waters and excellent visibility at this time of the year and the wet season rains are usually reserved to light afternoon showers in the highlands. With exceptional wildlife viewing all year, many consider these months an ideal time to escape the European winter and visit the archipelago. We therefore highly recommended booking well in advance, especially for Christmas holidays.
This is the second half of the wet season so visitors at this time of the year will experience the same almost permanent sunny clear days and high temperatures of the preceding months. Rains are still mostly confined to the highlands, keeping them a lush green, and the calm warm seas and fantastic underwater visibility are ideal for those wishing to explore aboard a smaller expedition cruise or wanting to do lots of snorkelling. With great weather (assuming you’re not shy of the sometimes stiflingly hot days, which average 31°C by April!), it’s an equally popular time to visit as Dec-Feb so it’s advisable to book well ahead, especially for Easter week!
The arrival of cold nutrient-rich ocean currents marks the start of the cooler dry season in June. Average highs drop to a more comfortable 24°C and you may need a light sweater in the evenings. Hazy skies offer some protection from the strong sun, which some people favour, and choppier seas make larger vessels a popular choice at this time of the year. Underwater visibility reduces but there’s a surge in underwater activity with larger shoals of fish and, in July and August, the chance to spot humpback whales and maybe even orcas and whale sharks. Being such a fantastic family holiday destination accommodation does book up early for the school holidays.
The cooler dry season continues with more comfortable average highs of 24°C, choppier seas that favour larger vessels and colder nutrient rich waters with reduced visibility but incredible underwater activity. Hazy skies continue to protect from the strong sun and a low mist hangs in the highlands for much of the day. September and October are the best months for spotting humpback whales, orcas and whale sharks as well as large pods of dolphins and groups of rays and sharks. Water temperatures rise in November, winds ease and calmer seas mark the transition towards the warmer wet season to come.
Top Things to do in Isabela (Albemarle)
There are plenty of unforgettable things to do on Isabela Island, from exploring dramatic volcanic landscapes and wildlife-rich beaches to snorkelling in the clear waters of the Galápagos. Whether discovering the island on foot, by boat or beneath the waves, Isabela offers some of the archipelago’s most memorable wildlife and outdoor experiences.
Explore the Galápagos islands on foot, by kayak, mountain bike, snorkelling and diving.
Spot birds on guided nature walks in the Galapagos Islands, visiting nesting and feeding sites.
Witness an underwater theatre of sea life in one of the world’s best diving destinations.
Go kayaking, snorkelling or paddling in crystal clear waters, and visit a giant tortoise reserve.
Explore the Galápagos Islands on an hotel- based holiday hopping from island to island by boat, with the opportunity to hike, bike, kayak and snorkel.
Base yourself at the Galapagos Islands on a cruise or in a hotel to relax and revive.
Discover the Galápagos Islands for yourself – this is one of the most sought-after experiences in travel, and the reality does not disappoint.
Stroll with sea birds and snorkel with penguins, sea lions and marine iguanas on guided expeditions in the pristine natural wonderland of the Galápagos.
Accommodation in Isabela (Albemarle)
You can explore Isabela either from a land-based stay or aboard a cruise. For a base on dry land, Puerto Villamil Galápagos accommodation such as La Casa de Marita puts you within easy reach of the village, the lagoon and the breeding centre. Cruises such as the Archipel I, the Beluga and the Cachalote Explorer include Isabela on their routes. They’re an excellent way to reach the island’s more remote sites, including Tagus Cove, Urbina Bay and Punta Vicente Roca.
MC Alya is a small, first class motor catamaran offering wildlife cruises in the Galapagos Islands.
Archipel I is a small, contemporary motor catamaran offering 16 guests a superior Galapagos cruising experience a with highly professional crew.
A well-appointed motor yacht designed for those who prefer the intimacy of travel on a small craft while enjoying maximum comfort.
Cachalote Explorer is a converted fishing boat, renovated in 2018, offering economical cruises in the Galapagos for those who prefer a small vessel.
Family-run La Casa de Marita is a welcoming, homely hotel right on the shores of a beautiful white sand beach and within easy reach of Isabela’s main town, Puerto Villamil.
Two small motor yachts offering family-friendly cruises with a nautical feel.
Finch Bay is a small beachfront hotel catering for guests individually with an array of excursions and activities to choose from. A stay here is a great alternative or complement to a cruise if you want to explore an island more intimately.
Galapagos Legend is a good value, family-friendly cruise ship which owing to its relatively large size is particularly stable and offers many activities and entertainment.
Galapagos Safari Camp is an exquisite property which follows the example of Africa’s luxury safari camps to offer true comfort under canvas.
Golden Bay is a stunning, superior property perched on a white-powder beach you may share with a sea-lion or two. Contemporary chic blends with sympathy with the rustic landscape, and service comes with a welcoming smile.
Mainao is a cheerful Moorish-style mid-range hotel in Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz Island.
Iguana Crossing is a beautifully appointed luxury hotel on a white-sand beach, combining a lean, contemporary mood with a remarkable natural setting.
Expedition cruise liner combining the amenities and comforts of a large ship with the exclusivity and exploratory spirit of a smaller vessel.
Isamar Hotel is a small and very friendly property right on a snow-white beach on Isabela Island in the Galapagos.
First class expeditionary motor yacht with great facilities and large panoramic windows,
An inspiring model of sustainable tourism, this is an intimate, unique property in the highlands of Santa Cruz Island devoted to discovering the Galapagos through family adventures and well-being.
Nostalgic and luxurious Galápagos expedition cruise ship, with more than a hint of retro 1920s style yet all the amenities of the modern age.
First class yacht with a nostalgic ambience which aspires to the elegance and prestige of its namesake, Princess Grace of Monaco, who spent her honeymoon on board.
Ocean Spray is a small and intimate first class motor catamaran offering ocean-borne luxury, excellent service and well guided excursions in the Galápagos Islands.
The Passion is a spacious yet intimate Galapagos based yacht, for just 14 guests.
The most luxurious, super-chic hotel on the Galapagos offers exclusive accommodation, top quality guided activities and its own yacht to take you on trips to other islands.
Santa Cruz II is a modern, family-friendly motor yacht, with a wide range of facilities and activities and contemporary cabins.
Scalesia Lodge is an innovative new property on Isabela island, where you sleep in spacious and stylish safari-style tents enveloped by tropical forest and enjoy the restaurant and lounges in a smart, contemporary building with great views.
Comfortable catamaran catering to just 16 passengers, ensuring camaraderie and excellent service.
Small motor yacht offering sleek and stylish on board spaces, with well-equipped cabins and a sundeck with two Jacuzzis.
A sleek contemporary yacht welcomes couples, families and singles to enjoy a Galapagos experience in a sociable environment with just 16 guests max.
The Treasure of Galapagos is a fine choice for visitors seeking a cruise on a small, intimate and modern catamaran.
Sweet and simple hotel with a light, airy and uncluttered feel: a good choice on Santa Cruz island.
A former Journey Latin America tour leader, Sally spent 7 years working, travelling and living throughout Latin America before returning to the UK to help people arrange their own adventures to this wonderful destination.
Tailor-Made Isabela (Albemarle) Tours
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FAQs about visiting Isabela (Albemarle)
Isabela (Albemarle) is one of the most popular destinations, and there’s plenty to think about before you go. Here, our specialists share their best advice.
- What is Isabela Island known for?
Isabela is characterised by five active volcanoes connected by twisted lava flows, alongside craggy cliffs, sandy bays and rich marine sites. Wildlife experiences, snorkelling, boat trips and coastal hikes are among the island’s attractions.
- What are the best things to do on Isabela Island?
Highlights include exploring Isabela’s volcanic landscapes, snorkelling, birdwatching, coastal hiking and boat trips, as well as visiting Puerto Villamil, Tagus Cove, Urbina Bay and Punta Vicente Roca.
- Can you snorkel on Isabela Island?
Yes. Snorkelling is one of the activities highlighted on Isabela, while Punta Vicente Roca is one of the island’s notable marine sites to explore by boat or while snorkelling.
- What can you see in Puerto Villamil?
Puerto Villamil is Isabela’s only village and is home to a tortoise breeding centre and a flamingo-filled lagoon.
- What is Tagus Cove known for?
Tagus Cove is a natural harbour where pirates and whalers carved the names of their ships into the rocks.
- What is Punta Vicente Roca?
Punta Vicente Roca is the site of an ancient volcano and is highlighted as one of Isabela’s best marine sites for exploring by boat or snorkelling.
- Is Isabela also called Albemarle Island?
Yes. Isabela was historically known as Albemarle Island, and you’ll still find the older name on some maps and in historical accounts.
Ready to start planning?
Tell us where you want to go, and we’ll take it from there. No obligation, no sales pitch – just a conversation with someone who knows the region inside out.