Puerto Villamil
Puerto Villamil on Isabela Island is a wildlife haven with stunning beaches, volcanic landscapes, and a relaxed pace of life. A must-visit for nature ...

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temps, abundant marine life
Puerto Villamil
Best Time
Cooler temps, abundant marine life

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Puerto Villamil on Isabela Island is a wildlife haven with stunning beaches, volcanic landscapes, and a relaxed pace of life. A must-visit for nature lovers.
"Isabela Island is a wildlife paradise with pristine beaches and volcanic wonders."
Book Ferries in Advance
Secure your inter-island ferry tickets ahead of time, especially for travel between islands. :ferry:
Pack for All Weather
Galapagos weather can change quickly. Bring layers, rain gear, and sun protection. :umbrella: :sunglasses:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Concordia Volcano Hike
Sierra Negra Volcano
Trek to the rim of one of the world's largest calderas for breathtaking panoramic views. Witness volcanic landscapes and diverse flora. :volcano:
Las Tintoreras Islets
Near Puerto Villamil
Kayak or take a boat tour to see Galapagos penguins, marine iguanas, sea lions, and the iconic white-tip reef sharks resting in lava crevices. :penguin: :shark:

Wall of Tears
Puerto Villamil
A historical site with a somber past, this stone wall was built by prisoners. It's a poignant reminder of Isabela Island's history. :stone:

Puerto Villamil Beach
Puerto Villamil
Relax on the pristine white sands, swim in the turquoise waters, and enjoy stunning sunsets. A perfect spot for a leisurely day. :beachwithumbrella:
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Getting to Puerto Villamil
Best Time to Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Ferries in Advance
Secure your inter-island ferry tickets ahead of time, especially for travel between islands. :ferry:
Pack for All Weather
Galapagos weather can change quickly. Bring layers, rain gear, and sun protection. :umbrella: :sunglasses:
Snorkel Gear Recommended
While tours provide gear, having your own ensures a good fit and availability. :mask:
Stay Hydrated
The equatorial sun is strong. Carry plenty of water, especially during hikes and outdoor activities. :water_wave:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Ferries in Advance
Secure your inter-island ferry tickets ahead of time, especially for travel between islands. :ferry:
Pack for All Weather
Galapagos weather can change quickly. Bring layers, rain gear, and sun protection. :umbrella: :sunglasses:
Snorkel Gear Recommended
While tours provide gear, having your own ensures a good fit and availability. :mask:
Stay Hydrated
The equatorial sun is strong. Carry plenty of water, especially during hikes and outdoor activities. :water_wave:
Embrace Local Eats
Try fresh seafood and local specialties at smaller restaurants for an authentic taste. :fish:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Puerto Villamil's stunning natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and relaxed island vibe. The pristine beaches and unique volcanic landscapes are major highlights. Some find the inter-island travel a bit rough and wish for more dining variety, but overall, it's a highly recommended Galapagos experience.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You'll need to fly from mainland Ecuador (Quito or Guayaquil) to Baltra (GPS) or San Cristobal (SCY) airport in the Galapagos. From there, take a ferry to Isabela Island, where Puerto Villamil is located. Ferries can be booked in advance.
Inter-island travel is primarily by speed ferry. These can be bumpy, so consider motion sickness medication. Booking in advance is highly recommended.
Puerto Villamil is a small, walkable town. Bicycles are also a popular and convenient way to explore the town and nearby beaches. Taxis are available for longer distances. :bike:
No visa is required for most nationalities to visit Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands. However, you will need to pay a National Park entrance fee and a transit control card upon arrival. :passport:
The official currency in Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands is the US Dollar (USD). ATMs are available in Puerto Villamil, but it's wise to carry some cash. :dollar:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no specific entrance fee for Puerto Villamil itself. However, you must pay the Galapagos National Park entrance fee ($100 USD for most foreign adults) and a Transit Control Card ($20 USD) upon arrival in the Galapagos.
Yes, many attractions like Las Tintoreras and the Sierra Negra Volcano hike have separate tour fees. Day passes for some beach resorts can cost around $25-$30, often with consumables.
It's advisable to book popular tours like Las Tintoreras and the Sierra Negra Volcano hike in advance, especially during peak travel times, to secure your spot.
Attraction hours can vary. Boat tours typically depart in the morning. The Wall of Tears is accessible during daylight hours. Check with local tour operators for specific timings. :clock:
For most tours and activities, you can purchase tickets upon arrival or through local agencies in Puerto Villamil. However, booking ahead guarantees availability.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the Sierra Negra Volcano hike for incredible caldera views, Las Tintoreras for unique wildlife encounters, and the Wall of Tears for a historical perspective. The beaches are also a major draw.
Isabela Island is teeming with wildlife! Look for Galapagos penguins, marine iguanas, sea lions, blue-footed boobies, giant tortoises, and various fish species while snorkeling.
Absolutely! Las Tintoreras and nearby coves offer excellent snorkeling opportunities. The waters are rich with marine life.
Adventure seekers can enjoy hiking the Sierra Negra Volcano, kayaking around Las Tintoreras, and exploring the island's diverse landscapes. :hiking_boot:
While popular spots can get busy, exploring further along the coast or visiting during shoulder seasons can offer more tranquility. Puerto Engabao is noted as a quieter beach area.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Seafood is king here! Expect fresh fish dishes, ceviche, and local Ecuadorian specialties. Many restaurants offer beachfront dining.
Yes, look for smaller, local eateries away from the main tourist strips. Some places offer affordable set menus or 'almuerzos' (lunch specials).
Travelers often recommend Pink Iguana for sunset views and The Beach for dinner. Many beachfront spots offer great ambiance.
While seafood is prevalent, many restaurants can accommodate vegetarian requests, often with rice, beans, and salads. It's best to ask. :leafy_green:
Dining can range from budget-friendly local spots to more upscale restaurants. Expect to pay more than on the mainland due to the island's remoteness.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning sunsets on the beach, unique wildlife at Las Tintoreras, dramatic volcanic landscapes at Sierra Negra, and the historic Wall of Tears. :camera:
Get up close with marine iguanas, sea lions, blue-footed boobies, and Galapagos penguins. Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light.
While dedicated photography tours might be less common, many wildlife and nature tours will offer ample opportunities. Consider hiring a local guide for specialized shots. :camerawithflash:
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset provide the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for landscapes and wildlife. Midday sun can be harsh. :sunrise:
A telephoto lens is beneficial for capturing wildlife from a respectful distance, but a good zoom lens on a DSLR or even a high-quality smartphone camera can yield great results. :iphone:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
💑 Couples
🚶 Day-Trippers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Isabela Island's Wildlife
Beyond the iconic species, Isabela boasts a rich birdlife, including blue-footed boobies, frigatebirds, and various finches. Snorkeling and diving in the surrounding waters reveal a vibrant underwater world with sea turtles, rays, and a multitude of colorful fish. Remember to maintain a respectful distance from all wildlife to ensure their well-being and your safety.
Many tours depart from Puerto Villamil to explore these natural wonders. Whether you're hiking volcanic trails, kayaking along the coast, or snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, the opportunities for incredible wildlife encounters are abundant. The island's commitment to conservation makes it a truly special destination for nature lovers. :parrot:
The History of the Wall of Tears
Visiting the Wall of Tears offers a profound glimpse into the island's history, a stark contrast to its current reputation as a pristine natural sanctuary. The site is accessible by bike or a short taxi ride from Puerto Villamil. Walking along the path to the wall, you can reflect on the human stories behind its construction. :scroll:
While the site itself is a historical marker, the surrounding area is also beautiful, offering opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying the natural landscape. It's a place that encourages contemplation and a deeper understanding of Isabela Island's complex past. :thought_balloon:
Experiencing Puerto Villamil Beach Life
The beach is not just for relaxation; it's also a hub for local life and offers stunning natural beauty. Sunsets here are legendary, painting the sky with vibrant colors that reflect off the calm ocean. You might spot sea lions playing in the shallows or marine iguanas dotting the shoreline.
For those seeking a bit more activity, kayaking or paddleboarding are popular options. Some beachfront resorts offer day passes that include access to facilities and food, providing a comfortable way to spend the day by the sea. Puerto Villamil Beach truly embodies the laid-back charm of island living. :palm_tree:
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit