Las Tintoreras

The Basics

Most tours to Las Tintoreras are half-day boat excursions that leave from Puerto Villamil. From the port, the boat ride is about 20 minutes to the islets, which get their name from the white-tip sharks that inhabit the area. Look out for a menagerie of marine creatures including sea lions, marine iguanas, blue footed boobies, Sally Lightfoot crabs, sea turtles, manta rays, white-tip sharks, pelicans, Galapagos penguins, and countless tropical fish. The tour is divided between walking along the lava rocks and either snorkeling or kayaking. Some tours offer underwater photography as part of the package, which is helpful so you don’t have to worry about missing the best shots.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Tintoreras is an ideal spot for nature lovers and active adventurers.
• Bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, plenty of water and snorkeling equipment.
• Don’t forget to carry cameras as this is one of the most picturesque beaches in the world.
• Carry enough cash to the island as there is only one ATM and it often is not working.

How to Get There

Las Tintoreras is located at just half a mile (800 meters) from Puerto Villamil on the island of Isabela. The site is only available to visitors on organized tours. To get to Isabela, fly into the airport or take a ferry from Santa Cruz island.

When to Get There

Peak season in Las Tintoreras runs through the spring, when temperatures are moderate, and one of the major attractions, the penguins, can be spotted easily. Summer afternoons are a bit hot; otherwise the climate is pleasant throughout.

Los Tuneles

Located along the southeastern Isabela island, west of Puerto Villamil, Los Tuneles is a complex of ancient lava formations in which an extraordinary abundance of life thrives. Over time, lava flows have created hundreds of tunnels and arches above and below the water, providing natural homes and ecosystems for blue footed boobies, white-tip sharks, sea lions, penguins, sea turtles—and seahorses. Organized snorkeling trips allow up-close encounters.

How do you get to Las Tintoreras?

Las Tintoreras is located half a mile (800 meters) from Puerto Villamil on the island of Isabela, about a 10-minute boat ride from Puerto Villamil. It’s an official Galapagos National Park, so a guided tour is mandatory. Most tours to Las Tintoreras are half-day boat excursions leaving from Puerto Villamil.

Is visiting Las Tintoreras worth it?

Yes. Las Tintoreras is considered an easy, accessible way to experience Galapagos wildlife and is a popular excursion from Puerto Villamil. It’s home to one of the largest marine iguana colonies of the archipelago and is known for the whitetip reef sharks. Activities range from hiking to snorkeling to kayaking.

What is the best time of year to visit Las Tintoreras?

December–May is the best time to visit Las Tintoreras as the weather is warm and the ocean water is clear. Because it’s located by the equator, the weather doesn’t change much throughout the year. In the cool season (June–November), the water is chillier. And in September, look for Galapagos penguins.

How much does it cost to visit Las Tintoreras?

The only way to visit Las Tintoreras is on a guided tour, which can range from around US$50 to several hundred dollars, depending on the duration, itinerary, and activities—and whether it’s a private or group excursion. More expensive multi-day Galapagos trips typically include a visit to Las Tintoreras.

How long does it take to tour Las Tintoreras?

Half-day tours to Las Tintoreras from Puerto Villamil and full-day tours from Puerto Ayora are available. It’s about a 10-minute boat ride from Puerto Villamil to the islets and a 2-hour (sometimes bumpy) boat ride from Puerto Ayora. It's easy to spend the day hiking, snorkeling, kayaking, and wildlife spotting.

Can you go to Las Tintoreras on your own?

No. The site is only accessible to visitors on organized tours. Book a half- or full-day tour that includes a 10-minute boat ride from Puerto Villamil. Many Galapagos cruise itineraries also stop at Las Tintoreras, and guided kayaking tours from Puerto Villamil to Las Tintoreras are available for adventurous travelers.