Best things to do in Puerto Villamil

Get in touch with the local aquaculture population with a visit to the islet of Las Tintoreras. The turquoise waters of the bay are sheltered, providing a perfect spot for sea lions, sea turtles, marine iguanas, stingrays, and reef sharks to hang around. At low tide, the bay is connected to a small shallow pool of clear water, where you can get an up-close look at the sharks. Survey the marine life from a lava deck above, or grab your snorkel and jump right in.

Get up close and personal with marine life when you snorkel at Concha de Perla. Cross over a wooden bridge through a mangrove forest, keeping an eye open for iguanas and other land animals as you approach the lagoon. A large rock formation in front of the lagoon keeps the waters here especially calm, making this area great for children and those new to snorkeling. The clear water makes it easy to see the marine life such as sea lions, sharks, many types of fish, turtles, and more.

Los Tuneles is known for snorkelling opportunities, packed with so much sea life it’s been compared to snorkelling in an aquarium. Take an hour-long boat ride to the site, where along the way you’ll likely see giant manta ray, sea turtles, and sea lions, as well as views of the coast. Once you reach the popular spot, use your snorkelling gear to explore a maze of lava tubes and marine life. You’ll likely be able to get up close to many animals, such as colorful angelfish, white-tipped reef sharks, and even penguins. Several tour companies offer excursions; do your research to select the right one.

See the aftermath of recent lava flows at Sierra Negra, where the caldera ranks as the largest volcano on the Galápagos Islands. Since its last eruption in 2005, the shield volcano has continued to release heat and gases, without any major events. Take a guided tour to the volcano to learn about the geological phenomena that created it. If you put your hands over a hole in the mountainside, you'll feel the geothermal heat radiating from beneath the surface. Wear boots for the journey, as you might have to trek through deep mud on the way up.

On a tour of Isabella Island, visit The Wall of Tears, a grim historical site that local legend says still emanates cries. Built by the island's penal colony from 1945 to 1959, the wall reportedly caused thousands of deaths of prisoners, who were forced to carry stones in the sweltering heat and isolation for days on end. Trek the scenic 7 km (4.3 mi) path, lined with mangroves, and you might spot some giant tortoises or other interesting Galapagos species along the way.

Get close to the majestic giant tortoises of the Galápagos Islands at Centro de Crianza Tortugas Gigantes Arnaldo Tupiza Chamaidan. With the last remaining Cerro Palomo tortoises--four male and two female--in its care, the breeding center dedicates itself to increasing and stabilizing the population of this endangered species. The center also cares for more than 300 other giant tortoises, which you can see on your visit. Take the scenic, flat boardwalk from Puerto Villamil to the breeding center, admiring the surrounding wetlands as you walk.