Urbina Bay
Explore a unique volcanic landscape and encounter iconic Galapagos wildlife, from land iguanas to sea turtles, in a pristine natural setting.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Warmer waters, peak whale season
Urbina Bay
Best Time
Warmer waters, peak whale season
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a unique volcanic landscape and encounter iconic Galapagos wildlife, from land iguanas to sea turtles, in a pristine natural setting.
"Brilliant yellow land iguanas and giant tortoises right on our walking path - a truly wild experience!"
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The terrain can be rocky and uneven. Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes for exploring the trails safely. :athletic_shoe:
🐢 Respect Wildlife Distances
Maintain a safe distance from all animals, especially nesting sea turtles and iguanas. Never feed them. :turtle:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Land Iguana Encounters
Walking trails
Witness brilliant yellow land iguanas basking in the sun, often right on your path. A truly wild and pristine experience.
Giant Tortoise Sightings
Walking trails
Spot Isabela Island tortoises in their natural, unspoiled habitat. A rare and special opportunity to see these gentle giants.
Volcanic Uplift Terrain
Shoreline
Explore unique geological formations from a 1954 volcanic uplift, where the land rose dramatically from the sea.
Snorkeling with Marine Life
Offshore
Dive into cool waters to snorkel with penguins, sea turtles, sharks, and vibrant schools of fish.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Wildlife
Island Exploration Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The terrain can be rocky and uneven. Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes for exploring the trails safely. :athletic_shoe:
🐢 Respect Wildlife Distances
Maintain a safe distance from all animals, especially nesting sea turtles and iguanas. Never feed them. :turtle:
🌊 Brace for Cold Water
Snorkeling here means cold water! Wetsuits are recommended if you plan to spend extended time in the sea. :cold_face:
☀️ Sun Protection is Crucial
The equatorial sun is intense. Use reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself. :sunwithface:
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The terrain can be rocky and uneven. Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes for exploring the trails safely. :athletic_shoe:
🐢 Respect Wildlife Distances
Maintain a safe distance from all animals, especially nesting sea turtles and iguanas. Never feed them. :turtle:
🌊 Brace for Cold Water
Snorkeling here means cold water! Wetsuits are recommended if you plan to spend extended time in the sea. :cold_face:
☀️ Sun Protection is Crucial
The equatorial sun is intense. Use reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself. :sunwithface:
📸 Capture the Moment
Bring your camera! The wildlife and volcanic landscapes offer incredible photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Urbina Bay's pristine nature and abundant wildlife, particularly the land iguanas and giant tortoises encountered on trails. The snorkeling is a major draw, offering chances to see penguins and sea turtles, though the cold water and strong waves are noted. The unique volcanic landscape adds to its appeal.
"We walked on Urbina Bay and saw many nests of sea turtles and land iguanas - right in our walking path! We saw a number of tortoises and iguanas too, brilliant yellow color. We had an hour of snorkeling off the beach and saw several penguins, a Galapagos Shark, Sea Turtles, and many schools of fish. The water was cold and the waves were strong! Wildlife Spotted: Darwin's Finches, Land Iguana, Penguins, Blue-Footed Boobies, Brown Pelican, Giant Tortoise, Green Turtle, Flightless Cormorant. We went here as part of a 2-week yacht cruise on Coral I with "Go Galapagos" around the Galapagos, in December 2024."
Eileen Weed
"Great place to see Isabela Island tortoises in the wild. You will be able to see a few while you walk through the trail, and although there are not so many Galapagos tortoises as when you visit Santa Cruz Island, it is very special as this location is still pristine.
Also this is an excellent place to go snorkeling."
Juan Sebastián Moncayo O.
"Beautiful pristine Galapagos island with many Iguanas, finches, hamming birds, penguins and giant tortoises. Encouraging that some protected unspoilt places still exist on earth."
Petros Demetriades
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Urbina Bay is located on Isabela Island in the Galapagos. Access is typically via organized boat tours or multi-day cruises that include it as a stop. It's not a destination you can easily reach independently.
Yes, Urbina Bay is a popular stop on many Galapagos cruise itineraries, especially those focusing on Isabela Island. Check with your tour operator for specific inclusions.
Visiting Urbina Bay as a day trip from Puerto Villamil on Isabela Island is challenging and usually requires a private charter, making it quite expensive. Most visitors experience it as part of a larger cruise.
Inter-island travel in the Galapagos is primarily by small planes or speedboats. For destinations like Urbina Bay, boat tours and cruises are the standard.
No, there are no public transport options to Urbina Bay. It is an isolated coastal area accessible only by sea.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Urbina Bay is typically included as part of your Galapagos National Park entrance fee and your cruise or tour package. You won't need a separate ticket for the bay itself.
Urbina Bay is an open natural site, so there are no set opening or closing hours. Access is determined by the schedules of the tour operators and cruises visiting the area.
The cost is usually bundled into your Galapagos cruise or tour package. The Galapagos National Park entrance fee is a separate, mandatory cost for all visitors to the islands.
Yes, it is highly recommended to book your Galapagos cruise or tour that includes Urbina Bay well in advance, especially during peak seasons.
You can bring food (cooked) to eat and swim, but be mindful of leaving no trace. Avoid bringing single-use plastics and any items that could harm the environment.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Expect to see land iguanas, giant tortoises, Darwin's finches, blue-footed boobies, penguins, flightless cormorants, and marine life like sea turtles and Galapagos sharks while snorkeling.
Yes, Urbina Bay is an excellent spot for snorkeling, offering opportunities to see penguins, sea turtles, sharks, and diverse fish. Be prepared for cold water and potentially strong waves.
The terrain consists of volcanic rock formations and sandy areas. It's a unique landscape shaped by volcanic activity, with trails that can be rocky and uneven.
Yes, all visitors are accompanied by certified naturalist guides who provide information about the geology, flora, and fauna of Urbina Bay.
Wear comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots for the trails, swimwear for snorkeling, and light, breathable clothing. A hat and sunglasses are essential.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photo ops include close-ups of land iguanas and giant tortoises, dramatic volcanic rock formations, and marine life during snorkeling.
Yes, but always maintain a respectful distance. Your guide will advise on safe and ethical wildlife photography practices.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is ideal for wildlife. Waterproof gear or a waterproof camera is recommended for snorkeling.
Drone usage is generally prohibited within Galapagos National Park areas, including Urbina Bay, to protect wildlife and preserve the natural environment.
Focus on capturing the unique yellow of the land iguanas and the textures of the volcanic landscape. Early morning or late afternoon light can be spectacular.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Pack plenty of snacks and water, as facilities are limited. Ensure children wear sturdy shoes for the rocky terrain and are supervised closely around wildlife. Wetsuits are highly recommended for snorkeling due to the cold water, which can be a fun experience for older kids.
🐢 Wildlife Enthusiasts
Photography tips: Bring a telephoto lens for capturing distant wildlife and a wide-angle lens for the dramatic volcanic landscapes. Be patient and respectful; the best sightings often come when you least expect them. Guides are invaluable for locating hidden wildlife.
🌊 Adventure Seekers
Preparation: Be ready for potentially strong waves and currents. A wetsuit is highly recommended for comfort and safety. The rugged volcanic terrain also offers an adventurous walk, making it a complete package for those seeking an active exploration of the Galapagos.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geological Marvel of Urbina Bay
This uplift also created a distinct ecosystem. The exposed terrain is now home to a variety of terrestrial species that have adapted to this relatively young land. You can observe the stark contrast between the barren volcanic rock and the hardy vegetation that has begun to colonize the area. It's a living laboratory for understanding ecological succession and adaptation in extreme environments.
Visitors often marvel at the sheer scale of the uplift and the exposed marine fossils. It's a powerful reminder of the ongoing geological activity in the Galapagos archipelago. The area offers a unique opportunity to learn about volcanism and its impact on shaping island landscapes, making it a highlight for geology enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
Wildlife Encounters: A Pristine Paradise
Beyond the iguanas and turtles, Urbina Bay is a haven for Galapagos tortoises. While not as numerous as on Santa Cruz Island, seeing these magnificent creatures in their natural, pristine habitat is a deeply rewarding experience. Birdwatchers will also be delighted by sightings of Darwin's finches, blue-footed boobies, and flightless cormorants. During the cooler months, Galapagos penguins can sometimes be spotted, adding to the diverse avian population.
For those who venture into the water, the snorkeling at Urbina Bay is exceptional. The cold Humboldt Current brings nutrient-rich waters, attracting a wealth of marine life. Swimmers can expect to encounter sea turtles, Galapagos sharks, and numerous species of colorful fish. The chance to snorkel alongside penguins is a truly unique Galapagos experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit