Tintoreras
Las Tintoreras is a group of small lava islets immediately outside Puerto Villamil. The excursion combines a very short boat journey with wildlife viewing, a guided walk across the lava and, depending on the programme, snorkelling.
Lava, marine iguanas and sharks
The walk crosses a stark landscape of dark lava, shallow channels and sheltered pools. Large numbers of marine iguanas can often be seen resting together on the rocks.
The site takes its name from the tintoreras, or white-tipped reef sharks, which frequently rest in a narrow channel beside the walking trail. They can usually be observed from above without entering the water.
Other wildlife
The surrounding water may also hold green sea turtles, rays and sea lions. Galápagos penguins are sometimes seen during the boat ride, while coastal birds use the islets and shoreline.
Sightings vary naturally, but the compact area regularly provides a good variety of wildlife.
How the visit works
Tintoreras is only a short boat ride from Puerto Villamil and does not require a lengthy journey across open water. It is usually a shorter and more affordable excursion than Los Túneles, making it easy to include within a stay on Isabela.
It is visited as an organised guided excursion, and the precise combination of walking, boat exploration and snorkelling depends on the programme and conditions.
Interested in visiting Tintoreras?
Tell us your approximate travel dates, group size and interests. We’ll help you fit this experience into a sensible Galápagos itinerary.
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