Departures are limited
Year Around
Penguins, Cormorants and Whales
Monday to Friday
12 Hours - 6 am to 6 pm
Only 6 to 12 guests
Suitable for Kids from 6 years
See here
Your expedition begins in the early morning as we depart Puerto Villamil and navigate toward the remote western coast of Isabela Island — a journey of approximately 2 to 2.5 hours.
Far more than simple travel time, this navigation is an essential part of the experience itself. As we move along the coastline, the landscapes transform dramatically: white sand beaches and dry coastal vegetation slowly give way to lush green hills before transitioning once again into the striking volcanic scenery shaped by the eruptions of Cerro Azul, with visible lava flows and volcanic craters stretching across the horizon.
Breakfast is served on board as we search for wildlife along the way. Depending on the day, sightings may include Galápagos penguins, flightless cormorants, Nazca boobies, blue-footed boobies, frigate birds, dolphins, fur seals and occasionally even orcas. Guests are also welcome to participate in optional fishing during navigation — sometimes contributing directly to the freshly prepared lunch served later in the day.
Upon arrival at Playa de los Cormoranes, we enter a sheltered bay of remarkably clear water, surrounded by volcanic coastline and almost entirely untouched by tourism. The calm lagoon creates ideal conditions for snorkeling while offering an extraordinary concentration of wildlife.
As you drift through the crystal-clear water, rays glide silently across the sandy bottom while schools of colorful reef fish move through the lava formations below. Curious sea lions often approach snorkelers playfully — a reminder of how rarely humans visit this remote part of Isabela. Sea turtles are commonly seen resting or feeding nearby, while octopus, lobsters and countless smaller marine creatures inhabit the cracks and crevices of the submerged lava.
The true highlight, however, is the unique opportunity to observe Galápagos penguins and flightless cormorants in their natural habitat. Nesting directly along the rocky shoreline surrounding the lagoon, these iconic species can often be seen diving into the water in search of food before reappearing moments later along the lava rocks.
Following the snorkeling session, we continue exploring the surrounding lava fields formed by the volcanic activity of Cerro Azul and Sierra Negra. At first glance, the landscape may appear barren and lifeless, yet with every step the ecosystem slowly reveals itself. Small lagoons emerge between ancient lava flows, marine iguanas rest along the shoreline, blue-footed boobies and frigate birds circle overhead, while cormorants move carefully between the volcanic rocks. Fur seals and sea lions can often be found resting quietly near the water’s edge.
This walk offers a rare glimpse into the raw and unexpected side of the Galápagos — a landscape where life slowly establishes itself in one of the harshest volcanic environments imaginable. Let nature surprise you.
After lunch, we continue our journey along Isabela’s coastline towards Los Túneles, a navigation of approximately one hour depending on sea conditions.
As we enter Los Túneles, the scenery becomes increasingly surreal — ancient lava flows rise from the ocean in every direction, forming arches, bridges and labyrinth-like channels shaped over thousands of years by volcanic eruptions and the constant movement of the sea. This maze-like ecosystem is one of the most unique volcanic landscapes in the Galápagos, where ocean and lava intertwine in extraordinary ways. Blue-footed boobies nest along the rocky outcrops while marine life flourishes beneath the surface of the crystal-clear channels.
Our visit includes both exploration on land and snorkeling within the protected waters surrounding the lava formations. Sea turtles glide slowly through the channels, reef sharks rest beneath the arches, and with some luck, you may even encounter seahorses hidden among the mangroves.
One of the most special aspects of visiting Los Túneles as part of this expedition is the timing of our arrival. Unlike most tours that visit during the busiest hours of the day, we usually reach the site later in the afternoon, when many boats have already departed. This often leaves the area surprisingly quiet, allowing for a far more peaceful and immersive experience surrounded only by volcanic landscapes, wildlife and the sound of the ocean.
This is one of the most remote and expedition-style experiences available from Isabela Island — combining dramatic volcanic scenery, exceptional wildlife encounters and access to areas traditionally reserved for expedition cruises.
What makes this tour special:
Who this tour is perfect for:
The western coast of Isabela remains one of the least visited and most wildlife-rich regions of the Galápagos Islands. While many travelers only encounter these landscapes from expedition cruise ships, this journey offers the rare opportunity to experience them on a carefully curated day expedition from Isabela Island itself.
From snorkeling alongside Galápagos penguins and flightless cormorants to sharing a fresh onboard lunch surrounded by volcanic scenery, this experience is designed for travelers seeking something beyond the ordinary day tour.
Snorkel alongside Galápagos penguins, flightless cormorants, sea turtles, rays and other remarkable marine species in one of the archipelago’s richest ecosystems.
Explore volcanic coastlines, isolated beaches and untouched landscapes that were not accessible since 2025.
Wildlife activity, ocean conditions and seasonal changes create a constantly evolving experience shaped by nature itself.
Freshly prepared meals, attentive local crew members and a relaxed onboard atmosphere transform the journey into a comfortable and memorable full-day expedition.
We’re happy to guide you to the negst available dates.
Equator Sunshine Extravaganza: UV Rays Here Pack a Sizzling Punch, Don’t Mess with them!
Dive in Style: Don’t Forget Your Aquatic Fashion Statements!
We offer the Go Pro 9 for rent including SD Card and two batteries
This is optional. Chances are that you are gonna get wet
For your own safety don’t take Flip Flops with you. Simple sneakers or even Crocs will do the magic
Wetsuits are optional however we recommend them from June to November. We offer all wetsuit sizes to rent out
Cormorant Beach is available on special request, giving you the chance to enjoy a destination few travelers ever see. By reaching out to us directly, you may even secure departures not listed on the calendar. And if, on rare occasions, the tour does not confirm, you’ll be seamlessly upgraded to the extraordinary Los Túneles experience at 11:00, with the price difference refunded. This way, you always gain—whether it’s the exclusivity of Cormorant Beach or the world-class wonder of Los Túneles.
Discover the more of the Galapagos Islands with Agora Tour Isabela. Create unforgettable memories with our day tours, cruises, ferry tickets or bike/snorkel rentals on Isabela, Santa Cruz and San Christobal.
Explore the vibrant marine birds at Tortuga delve into the mesmerizing underwater world of Cuatro Hermanos, and encounter the captivating Land Iguana in its pristine habitat.
The hike to the active Sierra Negra Volcano is without a doubt the best hike in Galapagos.
Discover this captivating destination of lava formations, crystal-clear pools, and breathtaking marine life.
