Be part of a selected group of people and get a whole new view of the Galapagos, while at the same time learning something about the people on these islands. Ecotourism is about protecting the environment but also integrating local people and sharing the benefits through community-based services, such as guides, boat operators, etc.

Isabela is the largest island of the volcanic Galapagos archipelago. Here you can see the famous Giant Tortoises (the Galápagos, from which the island chain gets its name), as well as many of the other species such as giant lizards, that have made the Galápagos a household word for animal life. Here too you can see Sea Lion breeding areas and watch white tipped sharks, as well as many of the 85 species of birds that live or visit the islands.

Apart from the celebrity its animal and bird inhabitants have brought it, the island has another interesting side to its history. During World War II, the United States established a military base 5 miles from the main town of Puerto Villamil, and after the war was over the Ecuadorian Government built a Penal Colony on the island. The area is now known as the "Wall of Tears" (Muro de las Lágrimas). In 1959, the Penal Colony was closed and at the same time the Galápagos National Park was created along with the Charles Darwin Research Station.

Isabela's human population has increased over the years, above all during the 1970's. Today fishing is the principal economic activity, but ecotourism and the production of handcrafts are becoming increasingly important. Isabela receives many visitors every year and is home to the Centro de Crianza de Tortugas Gigantes which is helping to protect and increase the numbers of these beautiful giant creatures which can weigh up to 700 lbs.

ITINERARY:

Departures: Daily

Day 1

Arriving on Isabela Island after a 45 minutes flight from San Cristobal. After a welcome cocktail at your hotel and some time to settle into your rooms, you will be guided through a tour of the Centro de Crianza de Tortugas Gigantes where the endangered giant tortoise population of the Galapagos Islands is presently recovering. Dinner will be served at the hotel. (L,D)

Day 2

After breakfast, you will take a horseback ride to the second largest crater in the world, Sierra Negra, in the highlands of Isabela Island. After reaching your destination, the horses will temporarily rest as participants hike to Volcano Chico to view active craters and an unforgettable lookout. Lunch, relaxation, and dinner at the hotel will follow. (B,L,D)

Day 3

Visit a white-tip shark canal and a sea lion breeding area. Later you will have the opportunity to go snorkeling with possible sightings of rays, marine turtles, penguins, and sharks. After lunch,you will see such Isabela landmarks as el Estero, Poza del Tuno, and Playa del Amor with the possibility of making this excursion on horseback. After Dinner at our hotel, guests will have time to relax. (B,L,D)

Day 4

Today we visit the Poza de los Diablos where you will have the opportunity to observe endemic fish species followed by a tour of beach and palm-lined Puerto Villamil. All of this will be topped off by dinner at your hotel. (B,L,D).

Day 5

Transfer to the Airport or pier to go back to Santa Cruz or San Cristobal.

Prices, departures and includes services

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