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Túneles & Caleta Iguana Expedition

Beyond the arches, into the wild of Isabela Island

Book $200
  • Cormorant Encounters
  • Additional Snorkeling Spot
  • Manta/Orca Sighings

Caleta Iguana Tour

The journey begins at the iconic lava arches of Los Túneles, where marine life moves effortlessly through a labyrinth of volcanic formations.

But instead of turning back, this special departure continues deeper along the wild southwest coast of Isabela — into waters rarely explored by anyone. 

  • Two extraordinary marine sites in one journey.
  • Small group experience guided by local experts.
  • Explore the wild southwest coast of Isabela.
  • Early departure with breakfast included.

Important:

Trip needs to be booked in Advance!

Best time to Go:

All Year Around

Focus:

Marine Birds, Mantas & Cetaceans

Availability:

During Even-Weeks Monday to Friday 6:30 - 16:00

Duration:

8-9 Hours

Small Groups

Only 12 guests

Experience Level:

Easily Accessible for almost all ages. Requires a longer Navigation.

What is included:

See here

Your Journey

The Lava Arches of Los Túneles

We begin the excursion with a navigation of approximately 45 minutes from Puerto Villamil to Los Túneles, one of the most remarkable volcanic landscapes around Isabela Island.

Upon arrival, we explore the intricate lava formations that rise gently from the ocean. The visit includes a dinghy ride through the natural arches and channels created by ancient lava flows, a short walk of about 30 minutes across the volcanic terrain, and snorkelling for up to one hour in the calm waters where marine life gathers among the rocky formations.

Along Isabela’s Wild Southwest Coast

After finishing our visit at Los Túneles, we continue navigating for about 45 minutes toward the remote southwest coast of the island in the direction of Caleta Iguana. This stretch of ocean often becomes a highlight of the day, as the dramatic volcanic shoreline unfolds and wildlife appears naturally along the route.

It is common to spot the remarkable Flightless Cormorant resting on the lava rocks, while blue-footed boobies and frigatebirds glide above the waves. Along the shoreline, the charismatic Galápagos Penguin can sometimes be seen standing among the dark volcanic formations. In the surrounding waters we may also encounter sea lions or pods of whales/dolphins moving through the deeper blue.

Snorkelling at Caleta Iguana

This quiet and little-visited corner of the island offers a very different marine environment and is known for its remarkable wildlife encounters.

Here we prepare for a second snorkelling session of around 45 minutes. The calm waters are home to a rich variety of marine life, and it is common to encounter sea turtles feeding in the shallows, sea lions gliding effortlessly through the water, and schools of colourful reef fish moving between the rocky formations. With a bit of luck, we may also see blacktip reef sharks cruising through the area, while the surrounding coastline is often inhabited by the charismatic Galápagos Penguin, the remarkable Flightless Cormorant and massive Oceanic Manta.

This second immersion offers a beautiful contrast to Los Túneles and provides another opportunity to experience the rich marine life that makes the waters around Isabela so extraordinary.

A Journey for Curious Explorers

The journey back to Puerto Villamil offers time to take in the vast seascape and reflect on the remarkable diversity experienced throughout the day. By visiting both the volcanic formations of Los Túneles and the remote waters of Caleta Iguana, the excursion reveals two very different marine environments within a single journey — each with its own wildlife, landscapes and quiet moments of discovery.

This experience is especially rewarding for travelers who enjoy observing nature closely and exploring beyond the most common routes. Rather than simply visiting one site, the day unfolds as a deeper exploration of the marine life and coastal landscapes surrounding Isabela Island.

Together, these encounters create a full and memorable day that blends wildlife observation, snorkelling and exploration in some of the most pristine and fascinating coastal environments of the island.

Inclusions

  • Experienced Naturalist Guide
  • Land- & Maritime Transportation
  • Delicious Lunch (vegetarian & vegan options)
  • Breakfast
  • Snorkeling Equipment
  • Wetsuits (long or short)
  • Snacks & Drinks
  • Towels
  • Unique Pictures & Memories to take home
  • WiFi (First-class Boat)
  • Dinghy (First-class Boat)
  • Gratitudes for Crew & Guide
  • Additional Services
  • Alcoholic Beverages

What can I discover?

Packing List

Sun Protection & Glasses

Bring a wide-brimmed hat (recommendable with a string), sunglasses & reef-safe sun screen

Swim Wear/Rashguard

We highly recommend a Rashguard against the high radiation.

Camera/Go Pro

Capture your adventures and take home the best souvenir possible

Rain Jacket (Optional)/Hoodie

A rain jacket during the rainy season and for early morning Garúa is recommended, as well as a hoodie during the cold season.

Good Walking Shoes

Choose stable walking or hiking shoes. The path is uneven.

Refillable Water Bottle

Bring a refillable Water Bottle to stay hydrate.

Reservation​

Contact us if you’d like to participate in the trip for a specifice date and we open the date for you. 

Galapagos Islands

Continue Exploring the Islands

Every corner reveals a different side of the Galápagos. Visiting different places allows you to experience the full richness of the island’s ecosystems — often revealing the small, magical encounters that make these journeys so memorable.

Los Tuneles

A captivating destination of lava formations, crystal-clear pools, and breathtaking marine life.

Las Tintoreras

Discover this Iguana nesting site and snorkel with Sea Turtles, Sharks and Penguins

Española Island

Experience the most colorful Marina Iguanas, observe waved Albatros nesting and find the largest lava lizards of the Archipelago.