38 Free Things To Do in Galapagos

General Information

The Galapagos, across all three islands, is part of the Galapagos National Park, so there are a few things you should know before you go:

• Most activities have to be done on a tour with a Naturalist guide.
• All the agencies have the same prices (although you can barter if you book more than one tour).
• Most beaches have opening and closing times (turtle nesting reasons).
• You should book your tour at least one day in advance (or you might risk not having a place on the best ones).
• Bring seasickness medication for the tours on the water.
• Always use strong sunscreen (the sun on the Equator line burns more).
• Have mosquito repellent with you, especially at sunset.
• There are horseflies in the Galapagos.
• Drones are not allowed for tourists in the park.
• You can’t rent a motorcycle or a car; everything has to be done by taxi, bus, boat, bicycle, or on foot.
• You can’t and shouldn’t touch the animals on the islands.

Free Things to Do in Galapagos: San Cristobal Island

San Cristobal is an excellent island for free activities, particularly if you enjoy wildlife and coastal scenery. If you’re looking for free things to do in Galapagos without spending much, many of San Cristobal’s beaches, viewpoints, trails, and wildlife hotspots can be explored independently. You don’t have to join an expensive tour to see sea lions, marine iguanas, frigatebirds, and other species. From Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, several memorable spots are accessible on foot, giving you plenty of opportunities to experience the island without spending a fortune. If you also want paid tours and activities, see my best things to do in the Galapagos guide.

1. Visit The Interpretation Center

The Interpretation Center or “Centro de Interpretación Ambiental Gianni Arismendy” is the island’s Natural and History Museum and the best introduction you can have to the Galapagos Islands.

Here you can find information about the history of San Cristobal, and the entire archipelago, from its discovery to its colonization. Scientific information about its geological formation, and its endemic species. An entire area dedicated to the preservation and conservation of the Galápagos. and finally a section about the local people that fought all their lives for the protection of this paradise.

I went here while hiking my way to Playa Baquerizo beach and also wrote an article about it. If you’re looking to learn something about the archipelago and, for example, it’s raining outside, this is probably one of the best free things to do in Galapagos.

View the full blog post here: CERRO TIJERETAS AND PLAYA BAQUERIZO HIKE

2. Viewpoint of Cerro Tijeretas

Cerro Tijeretas or Tijeretas Hill is San Cristobal’s best viewpoint. If you’re on the island you can’t miss your chance to come here. It’s not far away from the city center, and it’s right after San Cristobal’s Interpretation Center.

From here you have a beautiful view over the turquoise waters of Muelle Tijeretas Dock and you can even see in the distance, the most famous rock on the island, the Kicker Rock. I went here while hiking my way to Playa Baquerizo beach and also wrote an article about it.

View the full blog post here: CERRO TIJERETAS AND PLAYA BAQUERIZO HIKE

3. Hike to Playa Baquerizo Beach​

The Playa Baquerizo beach hike is the only hike you can do on the island that is free and not part of a tour. You can actually continue further to another beach but I would say for a normal hiker this is enough, especially on a hot sunny day.

It’s a nice long white sandy beach with almost nobody since it’s a bit hard to reach it, and you can snorkel in the water. I saw turtles many fish and a white-tip reef shark. On the sand and in the water marine iguanas can also be found here.

View the full blog post here: CERRO TIJERETAS AND PLAYA BAQUERIZO HIKE

Also, if you’re interested in beaches: BEST 5 BEACHES IN SAN CRISTOBAL 

4. Snorkel at Muelle Tijeretas Dock

It is a very nice alternative place to swim and snorkel. There is a cave full of sea lions right on the right of the dock and you will probably find them also in the water or at the dock with you (as you can see in the photo). If you’re in the Interpretation Center, you either go right to the Cerro Tijeretas Hill or go left to Muelle Tijeretas Dock.

It’s free and it’s the perfect refreshment stop on your way to Cerro Tijeretas or Playa Baquerizo beach. I went here on my way back from Playa Baquerizo beach and also wrote an article about it.

View the full blog post here: CERRO TIJERETAS AND PLAYA BAQUERIZO HIKE

Also, if you’re interested in beaches: BEST 5 BEACHES IN SAN CRISTOBAL 

5. Explore Puerto Baquerizo’s Downtown

It comes without saying that the downtown of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno’s, San Cristobal’s “capital” is an amazing place to walk around and be amazed. You will find literally, everywhere you go dozens of sea lions chilling in front of you, on benches, on the beach, inside stores, and in the middle of the road. They own the place.

There are also some other special attractions like the Charles Darwin statue with its ship The Beagle, many cafes and restaurants, and a ton of other cute free things to do in San Cristobal. All the tours and activities start from here, and you will for sure love it. It’s not a busy touristy town like Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz island, it’s more unique and special.

For a reason, this island is called by the locals “La Isla Bonita” - “The cute island”. It’s adorable and I sure miss it and can’t wait to go back.

6. La Loberia Beach

This was the first activity I did on the island, it’s a long free beach full of sea lions and marine iguanas. When I went into the water a baby sea lion started playing with me, we raced together and I saw some beautiful turtles swimming around.

There is a National Park guard taking care of the beach and some minor facilities such as the guard’s tower where you can hide if it starts raining. You need to take a taxi to reach it or rent a bicycle and cycle your way there. I did a whole post about it and added the numbers of some taxi drivers you can call to take you there.

View the full blog post here: LA LOBERIA BEACH IN SAN CRISTOBAL

Also, if you’re interested in beaches: BEST 5 BEACHES IN SAN CRISTOBAL 

7. Punta Carola Beach

This is for me the best beach in San Cristobal. It’s free, it’s long and beautiful, you can relax, there are not many people and its perfect location allows you to watch amazing sunsets from there. If you’re looking for free things to do in Galapagos, this is definitely one of my top recommendations.

To reach it you have to walk perhaps 15 mins from Puerto Baquerizo Moreno’s downtown. You can surf here, it’s actually one of the best places to do it on the island and you can also swim with sea lions and marine iguanas if you’re lucky.

View the full blog post here: PUNTA CAROLA BEACH IN SAN CRISTOBAL

Also, if you’re interested in beaches: BEST 5 BEACHES IN SAN CRISTOBAL 

8. Playa Mann Beach

If you have a group of friends or you are with your family and don’t want to be just with nature, this is the place to come. There are kiosks where you can get some snacks and drinks, you can play music on the beach, watch the sunset and relax next to some sea lions.

This beach is literally 10 minutes away from downtown and it’s also on the way to Punta Carola beach, so if you find it too busy you have a close-by alternative.

View the full blog post here: PLAYA MANN BEACH IN SAN CRISTOBAL

Also, if you’re interested in beaches: BEST 5 BEACHES IN SAN CRISTOBAL 

9. Surf in San Cristobal

If you have your own surf board it is free, If you don’t it’s relatively cheap to rent one in town. San Cristobal is the best island in the Galapagos for surfing and it has 8 different spots for you to do it. I don’t usually surf but I was with a friend that did and I wrote an article where you can see which beaches are best for surfing and for all the other activities.

View the full blog post here: 5 BEST BEACHES IN SAN CRISTOBAL

10. “El Junco” Crater Lake

El Junco Crater Lake is a natural, open-air attraction that, in theory, if you find a way to get there walking or by bicycle, you could do it for free, and that’s why it’s on the list of free things to do in Galapagos.

The El Junco crater lake is the largest natural freshwater reserve in the entire Galapagos Archipelago. It is located in the crater of an extinct volcano and its name comes from the “junco” plant, which is very common around the area. The lake’s diameter is 270 m. and its maximum depth is 6 m, comprising a total of 360.000 m3 of water.

In order to visit it you should order a taxi, for that reason, it’s usually included in a tour where the taxi takes you to multiple destinations. This tour is called “The Highlands Tour” or “Tour Parte Alta” and takes you to El Junco Crater Lake, The Giant Tortoise Reserve “La Galapaguera” and Puerto Chino beach.

View the full blog post here: HIGHLANDS TOUR IN SAN CRISTOBAL

11. Giant Tortoise Reserve “La Galapaguera de Cerro Colorado”

The “Galapaguera de Cerro Colorado” or “Centro de Crianza de Tortugas Terrestres David Rodriguez” is San Cristobal’s giant tortoise reserve, every main island has its own and this is the one you can visit on this island. On the same order of ideas as El Junco Crater Lake, if you find a way to get here by your own means, you won’t have to pay a thing, making it another great option for free things to do in Galapagos.

On its compounds, you can find tortoises of different ages and sizes, from baby to adult ones. This is a breeding center and what they do is rescue tortoises’ eggs that were recently laid and take them here, thus significantly increasing their chance of survival.

In order to visit it you should hire a taxi, for that reason, it’s usually included in a tour where the taxi takes you to multiple destinations. This tour is called “The Highlands Tour” or “Tour Parte Alta” and takes you to El Junco Crater Lake, the Giant Tortoise Reserve “La Galapaguera” and Puerto Chino beach.

View the full blog post here: HIGHLANDS TOUR IN SAN CRISTOBAL

12. Puerto Chino Beach

Puerto Chino Beach is one of the most beautiful and secluded beaches on this island. There are almost no tourists here; you can snorkel, sunbathe, and even surf. If you’re lucky, you might even find sea lions. It’s a great option for free things to do in Galapagos if you can find a way to get there without paying for an organized tour.

In order to visit it you should hire a taxi, for that reason, it’s usually included in a tour where the taxi takes you to multiple destinations. This tour is called “The Highlands Tour” or “Tour Parte Alta” and takes you to El Junco Crater Lake, The Giant Tortoise Reserve “La Galapaguera” and Puerto Chino beach.

If you find a way to get here by your own means you won’t have to pay a dime. If you don’t you can always rent a taxi and share the price with your friends.

View the full blog post here: HIGHLANDS TOUR IN SAN CRISTOBAL

Also, if you’re interested in beaches: BEST 5 BEACHES IN SAN CRISTOBAL 

Where to Stay in San Cristobal

San Cristobal Island in the Galapagos has a range of accommodation options to choose from, making it easy to find a comfortable base for exploring all the free things to do in Galapagos. We’ve narrowed down the top three choices for you.

If you’re seeking a luxurious lodging experience, Golden Bay Galapagos Hotel, a luxury resort in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, is the perfect option for you. For a private and romantic getaway, Villa Bonita Guest House offers a charming villa with a private pool and all modern amenities. And for budget-conscious travelers, Cactus Hostal is a great choice with its colorful rooms, socializing areas, and convenient services.

To learn more about these options and other accommodation choices, check out the full article:

Free Things to Do in Galapagos: Santa Cruz Island

Santa Cruz is one of the best islands in the Galapagos for finding free things to do, with plenty of wildlife encounters, scenic walks, beaches, and viewpoints that don’t require an organized tour. For travelers searching for free things to do in Galapagos on a budget, Santa Cruz offers plenty of opportunities. From wandering around Puerto Ayora to visiting natural attractions and watching sea lions, marine iguanas, giant tortoises, and birds, you can experience a surprising amount of the island without spending much beyond your accommodation and food.

13. Charles Darwin Research Station

Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz Island is dedicated to preserving the unique species of the Galapagos. Scientists at the station conduct various studies and environmental initiatives to protect wildlife. If you’re passionate about preservation, you can help by volunteering or contributing to research efforts. Join the efforts to keep this paradise thriving.

In addition to the research efforts, the station features a giant tortoise breeding center, which can be toured for just $10 USD, a rare exception to the list of free things to do in Galapagos but well worth the experience.

At the station, you can also see the embalmed remains of Lonesome George, the oldest known giant tortoise of his species, who passed away in 2012. Furthermore, you can delve into the endemic flora of the Galapagos, learn about Charles Darwin, and take advantage of amenities like a cafeteria, public library, and restrooms.

In my opinion, the Charles Darwin Research Station should be at the top of your list of free things to do in Galapagos. With a mix of culture, history, and nature just a short walk from downtown, it’s a must-visit for anyone in the area.

View the full blog post here: CHARLES DARWIN RESEARCH STATION

14. Nymphs Lagoon

The Nymphs Lagoon in Santa Cruz is a stunning mangrove-filled lagoon just around the corner from the city center of Puerto Ayora. It used to be a great pit stop on your way to Tortuga Bay beach, especially for families looking for a free thing to do in Galapagos.

However, the Nymphs Lagoon was closed when I visited in 2026, so you won’t be able to access the site at the moment. If it reopens during your trip, it’s worth checking the local conditions before heading there.

Getting to the Nymphs Lagoon, or Laguna de Las Ninfas, is easy, you can take a taxi, bike, or even walk. I’d recommend walking since it’s located right in the city’s heart. Just keep in mind that swimming, fishing, kayaking, and disturbing the wildlife around the lagoon are strictly prohibited.

View the full blog post here: NYMPHS LAGOON IN SANTA CRUZ

15. Station Beach

The Charles Darwin Research Station complex is home to two main beaches, one of which is Station Beach. Both beaches are characterized by rocks and limited sand near the water. With few visitors, these beaches provide a peaceful location to spend the day, and you can conveniently park your bike at the entrance.

While at Station Beach, keep an eye out for marine iguanas that might blend in with the rocks. It’s a great spot for swimming and snorkeling and is one of the only nearby options for a quick dip on a hot day, apart from Alemanes Beach on the other side of town.

Visiting Station Beach is free and provides the perfect refreshment after exploring the research station.

View the full blog post here: CHARLES DARWIN RESEARCH STATION

16. Santa Cruz’s Downtown

Stroll around Puerto Ayora, the capital of Santa Cruz Island, known as the most touristy of the three main islands. You’ll find plenty of restaurants, bars, cafes, and trendy shops to explore.

Impress yourself with the lively nightlife and diverse food and drink options, including international cuisine and craft beers. Don’t forget to visit the bustling fish market, where pelicans and sea lions often come for a snack and check out the famous statue of a giant tortoise.

The area around the dock also hosts events and offers stunning views of golden rays and reef sharks during the day. If you’re searching for free things to do in Galapagos, take some time to explore Puerto Ayora! You won’t regret it!

17. La Ratonera Beach

Discover La Ratonera Beach, a hidden treasure on the grounds of the Charles Darwin Research Center. Despite its remote location, it’s famous for its fantastic surfing waves, thanks to its proximity to the open sea.

Escape the crowds and cool off after exploring the Research Center at this tranquil beach. With its rocky shoreline and limited sand, La Ratonera offers a one-of-a-kind and peaceful escape. While sunbathing, keep an eye out for marine iguanas blending in with the rocks. And the best part? It’s free!

View the full blog post here: CHARLES DARWIN RESEARCH STATION

18. Tortuga Bay Beach

Tortuga Bay beach is hands down my favorite beach in the Galapagos. The beach got its name because it’s a favorite spot for sea turtles to come and lay their eggs. It’s also one of my favorite free things to do in Galapagos, especially if you want to enjoy one of the islands’ most beautiful beaches without joining an organized tour.

This stunning beach with white sand and crystal-clear water is a haven for marine iguanas and baby reef sharks. It’s the perfect place to surf, sunbathe, kayak, or relax and unwind.

It’s located about 3 km southwest of Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz island and is comprised of two beaches: Playa Brava, with its waves, and Playa Mansa, a smaller and calmer beach. Trust me, you won’t want to miss out on visiting this paradise.

View the full blog post here: TORTUGA BAY BEACH IN SANTA CRUZ

19. Hike to Media Luna, Puntudo, and Cerro Crooker Hill

This is probably the only proper wild hike on Santa Cruz island that doesn’t necessitate a tour.

To start your hike, take a taxi to Bellavista, which is located a short distance from Puerto Ayora. The hike to Cerro Crooker hill’s base is a challenging 8 km trek that takes approximately 3 hours each way.

Along the way, you will be rewarded with stunning views of the island’s volcanic hills and its lush miconia vegetation. Be sure to keep to the trail, as straying from it can disturb bird nests and lead to getting lost. Don’t miss the opportunity to spot the Galapagos Petrel, which nests on these mountains.

20. Love Channel

The Love Channel, also known as Canal del Amor, is a gorgeous turquoise channel surrounded by lava walls and one of the best free things to do in Santa Cruz. A small fee of 1$ USD is required for a taxi-boat ride to reach this stunning location.

It is often overlooked by those visiting the popular Las Grietas, so be sure to venture here independently or opt for the famous Bay Tour or Tour de Bahia.

Although swimming is now prohibited, the Love Channel remains a breathtaking sight to behold and offers an ideal spot for taking photos and observing shorebirds and reef sharks from the wooden viewpoint.

The name Love Channel stems from its past as a romantic destination for couples, and it’s undoubtedly a beautiful place to appreciate today.

View the full blog post here: BAY TOUR IN SANTA CRUZ

To book this tour: Check the local company Galapagos Dreams, or book it online on Viator here: Half Day Bay Tour in Santa Cruz Island

21. Playa de Los Alemanes Beach

Playa de Los Alemanes, also known as Germans Beach, is located next to the popular Las Grietas and offers a peaceful retreat for families. It’s a great free thing to do in Galapagos, although you’ll need to pay $1 USD for the water taxi ride from the main port of Puerto Ayora.

It’s best to visit during low tide, as the sand tends to disappear during high tide. The water here is typically calm and shallow, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling.

If you’re lucky, your hotel may be in close proximity, allowing you to visit the beach at your leisure. If not, consider visiting as part of the Bay Tour and requesting additional time on the beach, followed by a separate water taxi ride back to the main port.

View the full blog post here: BAY TOUR IN SANTA CRUZ

To book this tour: Check the local company Galapagos Dreams, or book it online on Viator here: Half Day Bay Tour in Santa Cruz Island

22. Surf in Santa Cruz

While San Cristóbal Island may be more renowned among surfers compared to Santa Cruz Island, there are still numerous breathtaking surfing spots available here. Tortuga Bay, La Ratonera Beach, Tres Picos, Playa el Bazan Beach, and Piedra Ahogada can be easily reached on foot. Ola Escondida, Punta Gallina, and Punta Nuñez, can only be accessed by boat.

If you’re an experienced surfer with your own board, surfing at these spots won’t cost you a thing. However, if you don’t have a board, renting one isn’t too expensive and is a necessary expense.

23. Pit Craters “Los Gemelos”

At these unique locations, you will come across two valley-like pits covered in vegetation, which are the result of the collapse of ancient lava tunnels. Over time, as the lava cooled and contracted, it created unstable structures that eventually caved in, allowing vegetation to take over.

Visiting these formations can be done for free if you opt to explore on your own using a bike or by foot. However, this activity is typically included in a tour known as “The Highlands Tour” or “Tour Parte Alta”. This tour not only takes you to the Pit Craters “Los Gemelos”, but also to the Lava Tunnels and the Giant Tortoise Reserve “El Chato” or “Las Primicias”. The tour is typically conducted by bus.

View the full blog post here: HIGHLANDS TOUR IN SANTA CRUZ

To book this tour: Check the local company Galapagos Dreams’s website, or book it online on Viator here: The Giant Tortoise Experience | Lava Tubes + Los Gemelos

24. Lava Tunnels

At the Lava Tunnels, you will gain a deeper understanding of how the island was formed and witness various landscapes. These tunnels formed when lava flowed from a volcano and cooled, creating a solid outer shell when it came into contact with oxygen. Today, you can walk inside this outer shell structure.

Visiting the Lava Tunnels on your own by bike or foot will cost you a minimal fee of 3-5$ USD, which includes entry to the Tortoise Ranch. However, it is typically included in the “Highlands Tour” or “Tour Parte Alta,” which takes you to not only the Lava Tunnels but also the Pit Craters “Los Gemelos” and the Giant Tortoise Reserve “El Chato” or “Las Primicias.” The tour is conducted by bus.

View the full blog post here: HIGHLANDS TOUR IN SANTA CRUZ

To book this tour: Check the local company Galapagos Dreams’s website, or book it online on Viator here: The Giant Tortoise Experience | Lava Tubes + Los Gemelos

25. Giant Tortoise Reserves of “El Chato” or “Las Primícias”

“Las Primícias” and “El Chato” Giant Tortoise Reserves are super popular tourist hangouts for families, and as a result, they can get really busy with visitors. Unlike the Charles Darwin Foundation, this is a privately-owned ranch where visitors can observe giant tortoises roaming freely.

There is a restaurant, gift shop, and small museum showcasing ancient giant tortoise shells on the premises. Additionally, there is a photo opportunity where visitors can go inside a giant shell and take a picture with the words “I <3 Las Primícias” as a backdrop.

To visit on your own, you’ll need to pay a fee of 3-5$ USD, which includes access to the lava tunnels.  However, this attraction is often included in a tour called “The Highlands Tour” or “Tour Parte Alta,” which takes visitors to the Pit Craters “Los Gemelos,” the Lava Tunnels, and “Las Primícias.”

View the full blog post here: HIGHLANDS TOUR IN SANTA CRUZ

To book this tour: Check the local company Galapagos Dreams’s website, or book it online on Viator here: The Giant Tortoise Experience | Lava Tubes + Los Gemelos

26. El Garrapatero Beach

If you’re looking for a change of scenery from Tortuga Bay, El Garrapatero is another beach option on Santa Cruz island. With its white sand and adjacent lagoon, it’s a haven for flamingos and a great place to swim, kayak, sunbathe and relax.

Located 20 km northeast of Puerto Ayora, getting to El Garrapatero requires a taxi ride followed by a short walk. The beach is free to access, with the only cost being the taxi ride, which is estimated at around 35$ USD (2022 prices) and can be split among four people, making it a budget-friendly choice.

View the full blog post here: EL GARRAPATERO BEACH IN SANTA CRUZ

27. Las Grietas

Las Grietas, also known as “The Rifts/Crevasses,” is a water-filled canyon-like structure formed from two cliffs separated by a fissure filled with ocean water. Visitors can swim and snorkel in the area, which has breathtaking underwater formations. Don’t forget to bring your snorkel gear!

Please note that Las Grietas tends to be crowded, and there is now a minimum entrance fee of 10$ USD, even if you’re not part of a tour. This recent addition to the cost of visiting reflects the trend across the archipelago, where free things to do in Santa Cruz, San Cristobal, and Isabela are becoming harder to come by.

If you opt for a tour, the most popular one is the “Bay Tour” or “Tour de Bahia,” which includes stops at the Love Channel, Playa de Los Perros beach, and Las Tintoreras baby reef-shark pools.

View the full blog post here: BAY TOUR IN SANTA CRUZ

To book this tour: Check the local company Galapagos Dream’s website, or book it online on Viator here: Half Day Bay Tour in Santa Cruz Island

Where to Stay in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz Island in the Galapagos has a variety of accommodation options to choose from, giving you a convenient base for enjoying the many free things to do in Galapagos. We’ve narrowed down the top three choices for you.

For the ultimate luxury getaway, Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel offers a range of amenities, including an outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, and hot tub. Hotel Acacia is a comfortable and serene environment to unwind in the heart of Puerto Ayora, with lush gardens, a shared lounge, and a terrace. And Suites Hermosas offers two fully furnished apartments with breathtaking views and fully equipped kitchens.

To learn more about these options and other accommodation choices, check out the full article:

Free Things to Do in Galapagos: Isabela Island

Isabela is the largest island in the Galapagos and one of the best places to explore independently. If you’re looking for free things to do in Galapagos without relying on expensive tours, Isabela is an excellent choice. Its combination of beaches, volcanic landscapes, lagoons, wildlife, and walking trails means there are numerous places you can visit for free or with minimal transport costs. Around Puerto Villamil especially, you can easily reach several natural attractions on foot or by bicycle, making Isabela a great choice for travelers exploring the Galapagos on a budget.

28. Concha de Perla Lagoon

The Concha de Perla Lagoon is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for free things to do in Galapagos. It is a beautiful lagoon full of mangroves that you can visit just a short walk from Puerto Villamil town. You don’t have to pay for the entrance and is great for a family escape or snorkeling adventure.

You will definitely see marine iguanas on the wooden deck before entering the water and many beautiful fish. With luck, you might spot some turtles and perhaps some reef sharks and rays.

View the full blog post here: CONCHA DE PERLA LAGOON

29. Wall of Tears

The Wall of Tears on Isabela Island is a controversial attraction. It is a stone wall built between 1946 and 1959 by inmates of the former Isabela Penitentiary Colony. Hundreds of prisoners were forced to work under extreme circumstances, building this wall for no other purpose than punishment. Many people died while enduring these harsh conditions.

Although it is a difficult place to visit because of its history, the landscape surrounding it is particularly beautiful. It is also one of the free things to do in Galapagos, making it a worthwhile stop if you’re looking for hikes and scenic viewpoints without spending extra money.

From the Wall of Tears, you can continue towards the El Radar viewpoint, where you’ll be rewarded with beautiful views over Isabela’s coastline and beachfront. Definitely a place worth visiting if you enjoy hiking and spectacular views.

View the full blog post here: WALL OF TEARS IN ISABELA

To rent a bike: Check any of the many local bike shops in Puerto Villamil.

30. Cerro Orchilla Hill Viewpoint

Cerro Orchilla Hill is one of the highlights of the way to the Wall of Tears. It is a beautiful hill that overlooks the southern part of Isabela island. From there you can see Puerto Villamil town, the shore, and many small volcanic hills surrounding it.

If you don’t have the time or energy to go to the Wall of Tears this is a very nice alternative to see the green landscape of Isabela from above. It’s free to go and you can easily stop at the Playita beach on the way here or explore the Humedales - Wetlands park.

I went here on my way to the Wall of Tears. Pay attention if you park your bike down there on the bicycle park if there are any thorns on the floor cause I accidentally punctured my tire that way.

View the full blog post here: WALL OF TEARS IN ISABELA

31. El Radar Viewpoint Hike

The El Radar Viewpoint hike in Isabela Island is a short but beautiful hike you can do after arriving at the Wall of Tears.

The Wall of Tears is a stone wall built between 1946 and 1959 by inmates of the former Isabela Penitentiary Colony. Here hundreds of prisoners were forced to work under extreme circumstances. They built this wall for no other purpose than to be punished. While enduring this hardship many people died.

On your way to El Radar Viewpoint, there are other beautiful viewpoints like the Wall of Tear’s viewpoint, some meters after the wall.

From all of them, you can have a beautiful view of Isabela island’s beachfront and its green landscape.

View the full blog post here: EL RADAR VIEWPOINT HIKE

32. Puerto Villamil Beach

The Puerto Villamil beach or Playa Isabela in Isabela island is a gorgeous 4 km beach that runs alongside the entire seaside of this cute little town.

This white-sanded beauty with turquoise water is the perfect place to relax on Isabela island. Here you will see many pelicans fishing and marine iguanas and on the east side, there’s a great place to surf.

View the full blog post here: PUERTO VILLAMIL BEACH

33. Isabela’s Downtown

If you’re looking for free things to do in Galapagos, spending some time exploring Puerto Villamil’s downtown is a great option.

You’ll experience the unique blend of culture and natural beauty that the island has to offer. With a huge white beach running along the entire town, Puerto Villamil is a more relaxed and peaceful destination compared to Puerto Ayora in Santa Cruz, with fewer tourists.

While you’re there, enjoy the local restaurants serving up fresh fish, ceviche, and other local specialties. There are also a few international food restaurants, and visitors can grab a drink at one of the beachfront bars while watching the waves. The town’s small size makes everything easily accessible, perfect for a leisurely stroll.

In the backyard of Puerto Villamil, visitors can find some lakes where they can spot flamingos, adding to the town’s natural charm. There is also a small stadium in town where live events are occasionally held.

34. Los Humedales - Wetlands

Los Humedales or the Wetlands is a natural park full of different types of mangroves and lakes and it stands on the way to the Wall of Tears. Here you can find many animals including flamingos and giant tortoises.

In Los Humedales park there is another attraction which is a beach called Playa del Amor or Love beach where marine iguanas go for some intimacy.

It’s a free park and you can go here on your way to The Wall of Tears, Cerro Orchilla Hill, and El Radar hike.

View the full blog posts here: WALL OF TEARS IN ISABELA and EL RADAR VIEWPOINT HIKE

35. La Playita Beach

La Playita beach is the main alternative to Puerto Villamil’s beach and it stands right at the beginning of Los Humedales Park and some meters after the main beach. Here you can come at the end of your Wall of Tears bicycle ride or to say that you went to a different beach in Isabela.

Honestly, it is nice and it has more like a bay feeling but with a giant beach like Puerto Villamil’s beach next to the town where there aren’t almost people you don’t necessarily need to find a remote beach on this island. In any case, if you look for alternative beaches this is it.

View the full blog posts here: WALL OF TEARS IN ISABELA or PUERTO VILLAMIL BEACH

36. Giant Tortoise Reserve “Arnaldo Tupiza Chamaidan”

The Giant Tortoise reserve is a must-visit free attraction in Isabela. Isabela has its own reserve dedicated to the conservation and protection of these magnificent creatures.

The reserve is located just a 15-20 minute walk from Puerto Villamil’s downtown and is free to visit. Visitors can observe these gentle giants up close and learn more about the important work being done to preserve their species.

The breeding centers at the reserve play a crucial role in protecting and preserving these majestic animals. By protecting the eggs of giant tortoises laid in the wild, the reserve helps to prevent predation and gives the hatchlings a better chance of survival.

A visit to the Giant Tortoise reserve is a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors to Isabela Island. It provides a glimpse into the incredible diversity of life on the Galapagos Islands.

A recent visitor mentioned the reserve now costs $10 with a guide, but if you walk up the road “just to see the flamingos,” you might catch a cheeky glimpse of tortoises along the way.

To come here:  This is the location of the Tortoise Reserve

37. Cueva de Sucre

The Cueva de Sucre is another natural attraction on Isabela island. It is the entrance to a lava tunnel, just like in Santa Cruz but on a smaller scale.

If you want to visit this cave you need to rent a taxi (22 minutes away from town) or try to plan it with a tour company to take you here maybe on your way to the Sierra Negra Volcano tour or the Volcan Trillizos tour.

It is free to enter and there is a picnic area on its compounds.

To come here:  Here is the location of the cave.

38. Surf in Isabela

As with the other islands, Isabela is also a great spot for surfing. Here apart from the main Puerto Villamil beach, which is ideal for beginners, you can go surfing in El Faro, El Hospital, Barahona Point, and Quinta Ola.

If you’re like me, no surf expert, there are many places around town that offer you surf lessons so if you’ve run out of things to do in Isabela (which is hard) you can give it a try.

Where to Stay in Isabela

Finding the right accommodation in Isabela can make it easier to enjoy the many things to do in Galapagos, from exploring Puerto Villamil to discovering the island’s beaches, wildlife, and volcanic landscapes. We’ve narrowed down the top three hotel and accommodation choices for you.

For those looking for a sophisticated and comfortable stay, The Iguana Crossing Boutique Hotel is a great option, boasting 14 elegant rooms, a sparkling pool, and a rooftop lounge.

Cormorant Beach House offers an environmentally conscious retreat, where guests can enjoy the natural beauty of the island and a complimentary breakfast at a local-owned restaurant. For those who prefer more apartment-style accommodation, Aparthotel Casa Soleil offers fully-equipped apartments just 450 meters from the beach.

To learn more about the best hotels in Isabela, Galapagos, check out the full article:

All the Articles About The Galapagos

San Cristobal Island - The easternmost island of the Galapagos, the “Isla Bonita”

Santa Cruz Island - The island with the best tourism infrastructure.

Isabela Island - The most adventurous and less explored island of the main three.