Mosquera Islet
A small, sandy Galapagos islet famous for its large sea lion colony and vibrant wildlife, offering intimate encounters.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour for photos
Mosquera Islet
Best Time
Golden hour for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A small, sandy Galapagos islet famous for its large sea lion colony and vibrant wildlife, offering intimate encounters.
"Mosquera Islet is a must-see for its incredible sea lion population and unique coastal wildlife!"
Respect the Wildlife
Keep a safe distance from sea lions and other animals. Never touch or feed them! :seenoevil:
Panga Boat Access
Most visits are via panga boat. Be prepared for a wet landing on the sandy shore. :boat:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sea Lion Colony
Sandy shores
Witness one of the largest sea lion colonies in the Galapagos, with pups and adults basking on the sand.
Sally Lightfoot Crabs
Rocky coastlines
Spot vibrant Sally Lightfoot crabs scuttling along the lava reefs where waves crash.
Birdwatching Opportunities
Coastal areas
Look for nesting brown pelicans, swallow-tailed gulls, and other seabirds along the shore.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Sea Lions
Island Access & Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Respect the Wildlife
Keep a safe distance from sea lions and other animals. Never touch or feed them! :seenoevil:
Panga Boat Access
Most visits are via panga boat. Be prepared for a wet landing on the sandy shore. :boat:
Sun Protection is Key
The sun is intense. Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. :sunny:
Footwear for Sand & Rocks
Wear comfortable shoes that can handle sand and potentially slippery rocks. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
Respect the Wildlife
Keep a safe distance from sea lions and other animals. Never touch or feed them! :seenoevil:
Panga Boat Access
Most visits are via panga boat. Be prepared for a wet landing on the sandy shore. :boat:
Sun Protection is Key
The sun is intense. Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. :sunny:
Footwear for Sand & Rocks
Wear comfortable shoes that can handle sand and potentially slippery rocks. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Mosquera Islet for its incredible sea lion encounters and the opportunity to see vibrant Sally Lightfoot crabs. The accessible nature of the wildlife viewing, often with sea lions just meters away, makes it a memorable stop. Some find the islet small, but its concentrated wildlife makes it a worthwhile visit for most.
"HX expeditions provided our first panga boat tour in Galapagos along the coast of Mosquera Island.We enjoyed a sunny, late afternoon ride in July. Mosquera Islet is a small volcanic uplift about 4 nautical miles between Baltra and North Seymour. The island is a long and narrow sandback surrounded by lava reefs. We had our first sighting of Sally lightfoot crabs where waves crashed on the rocky coast.We spotted nesting brown pelicans, swallow tailed gulls, and a heron or egret sunning on the rocks. Above us, we watched frigate birds hunting for food in the water. There was a sprinkling of prickly pear cactus along the crest of the island. I also got distant photos of several birds that we didn't see on the rest of the Galapagos islands: brown noddy, grey wandering tattler and crested cara cara. The islet is also a popular rookery for baby sea lions, but we didn't see any on our side of the islet."
Barb Hauck-Mah (barbhmphilly)
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Hawii Chelkeba
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Наталия Золотова
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mosquera Islet is typically accessed via panga boat tours from larger cruise ships or organized day trips. It's located between North Seymour and Baltra Islands.
Yes, Mosquera Islet is a common stop on many Galapagos cruise itineraries due to its accessible location and abundant wildlife. 
Independent visits are difficult. It's best to book a tour or cruise that includes Mosquera Islet as part of its itinerary.
Inter-island travel is primarily done by small planes or ferries. For specific islets like Mosquera, boat tours are the standard.
The closest airport is on Baltra Island (GPS), which serves as a major gateway to the Galapagos.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Mosquera Islet is usually included in your Galapagos National Park entrance fee and the cost of your cruise or tour.
As a natural reserve, there are no set opening hours. Access is determined by tour operators and park regulations, typically during daylight hours.
The cost is generally part of your overall Galapagos tour package. There isn't a separate entrance fee for the islet itself.
Yes, day trips are available from Santa Cruz Island, often including snorkeling and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Visitors must adhere to National Park rules, including maintaining distance from wildlife and not leaving any trace.
📸 📸 Photography
The abundant sea lions, colorful Sally Lightfoot crabs, and various seabirds offer fantastic photographic subjects. The sandy beaches also provide beautiful backdrops.
A telephoto lens is great for wildlife, but a versatile zoom lens is useful for capturing landscapes and closer encounters. A waterproof camera or housing is recommended for potential water activities.
Late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour light for photography. Mornings can also be good with softer light and active wildlife.
Drone usage is generally restricted within Galapagos National Park to protect wildlife and natural habitats. Always check current regulations.
While dedicated photography tours might be rare, many Galapagos cruises offer opportunities for excellent wildlife photography.
🎫 🦭 Wildlife Encounters
Mosquera is famous for its large colony of Galapagos sea lions. You can also spot Sally Lightfoot crabs, various seabirds like pelicans and gulls, and sometimes marine iguanas. +1
While generally not aggressive towards humans, sea lions are wild animals. It's crucial to maintain a safe distance and avoid startling them.
Yes, swimming near the sea lions is a popular activity, but always follow your guide's instructions and maintain a respectful distance.
Keep an eye out for colorful Sally Lightfoot crabs on the rocks, nesting brown pelicans, swallow-tailed gulls, and possibly frigate birds overhead.
Absolutely. It's a nesting site for brown pelicans and swallow-tailed gulls, and you might spot other shorebirds and seabirds.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Tips for families: Ensure children understand and respect the rules about not approaching or touching the animals. Bring plenty of sunscreen, hats, and water. Comfortable, quick-drying footwear is essential for the panga boat landings and exploring the sandy shores. The relatively flat terrain makes it manageable for younger children, but always supervise them closely.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Photography tips: A telephoto lens is highly recommended for wildlife shots. Consider a wide-angle lens for capturing the expansive sandy beaches and ocean vistas. The late afternoon light is particularly beautiful for photography, creating a warm, golden glow. Be prepared for potential sea spray if you're close to the water's edge.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Abundant Sea Lions of Mosquera
+2Interactions with sea lions are a core part of the Mosquera experience. Many visitors report being able to swim near them, a truly unforgettable encounter. However, guides will always emphasize caution and respect. The sea lions are accustomed to human presence but should never be approached too closely or fed. Observing their natural behaviors, from nursing pups to territorial disputes, offers a fascinating glimpse into their lives.
+1Beyond the sea lions, the islet's sandy shores and rocky edges provide habitat for other fascinating creatures. Sally Lightfoot crabs, with their vibrant red and blue shells, are a common sight, scuttling across the lava rocks. Birdwatchers can also find plenty to observe, including nesting brown pelicans, swallow-tailed gulls, and various other seabirds.
Navigating Mosquera Islet: Access and Experience
The islet itself is a narrow sandbar, offering a unique landscape shaped by volcanic activity and ocean currents. While small, it provides ample opportunities for exploration on foot. Visitors can walk along the sandy shores, observe wildlife, and take in the panoramic ocean views. The experience is often described as serene and intimate, especially when visiting during less crowded times.
+1Given its status as a protected area within the Galapagos National Park, visitor numbers are managed to minimize impact. Tours are guided, ensuring that visitors adhere to park regulations, such as maintaining safe distances from wildlife and not disturbing the natural environment. The focus is on observation and appreciation of the unique ecosystem.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit