8 Days Western and Northern Galapagos Islands catamaran cruise

Santa Cruz: Twin Craters

Los Gemelos or the Twin Craters are found on opposite sides of the road from Puerto Ayora and Baltra. This name is a metaphor. These formations are not actually craters. They were formed by the collapse of underground material in fissures and chambers. It is stunning.

Santa Cruz Island: Highlands

The highlands of Santa Cruz can be reached by bus from Puerto Ayora. They are richly green and contrast beautifully with the lower, dry islands. The predominant vegetation of the highlands is the forest Scalesia trees, which creates the rich green color. Walking through the lava tubes underground, which are over half a mile in length, is an amazing, surreal experience.

Tintoreras Islet

A short distance from Puerto Villamil is the Tintoreras Islet which houses a wide range of wildlife. The turquoise waters of the Tintoreras Islet are home to white-tip reef sharks, Galapagos penguins and marine turtles. One of the few places where marine iguanas are able to reproduce is on one of its beaches, which is surrounded by mangroves.

Sierra Negra Volcano

At 9 x 10 kilometers, the Sierra Negra Volcano is home to the largest basaltic caldera of Galapagos. It offers stunning views, the chance to see up to 7 species and a rich display vegetation. Evidence of recent volcanic activity can be seen on the caldera's north side, which was formed in 2005.

Wetlands

Just outside Puerto Villamil, you will find the Wetlands of Isabela Island. The Wetlands are made up of mangroves, swamps, lagoons, and mangroves. They house a number of rare bird species, including common stilts and whimbrels as well as white-cheeked pintails and gallinules. You can visit the Wetlands by foot, following a path through the swamps.

Arnaldo Tupisa Breeding Center

This center was established to protect animals during their first years from foreign species like donkeys and pigs. The center collects giant tortoise eggs and keeps them there for five years until they can be released into their natural environment.