Explore Isabela
Isabela is the largest island in the Galapagos - the jewel of Ecuador. It sits astride the equator and its base of five active volcanoes makes this one of the most ecologically fascinating and volcanically active places in the world.
There are only a few dive centres on Isabela and no dive resorts. These offer excursions to local dive sites and diving courses upon request. They are located in busy towns like Puerto Villamil and some offer accommodation deals. Liveaboards are the best way to dive in the Galapagos and most leave from San Cristobal before visiting Isabela.
With submarine lava tunnels and offshore islands abundant in unique wildlife, diving in Isabela will not disappoint.
Top Isabela Dive Sites
1. Los Tuneles
Los Tuneles offers an easy diving experience amidst volcanic tunnels, ideal for scuba and snorkeling. Divers can spot eagle rays, turtles, sharks, sea lions, and white-tip sharks in crystal-clear waters. The area is known for its labyrinthine underwater formations and diverse marine life.
2. Cape Marshall
This site is for advanced divers due to strong currents and deep walls, accessible only by liveaboards. Cape Marshall is teeming with marine life, including sunfish, hammerheads, mantas, and schools of fish. The dynamic underwater landscape is a highlight for thrill-seekers.
3. Tortuga Island
Perfect for beginners, this drift dive site offers encounters with sunfish, hammerheads, mantas, and sea lions. Occasional orca sightings add excitement. The dive is primarily scuba, with gentle currents making it an ideal starting point for novice divers.
4. Roca Redonda
Roca Redonda is a technical dive site featuring an underwater volcano with fascinating gas bubbles rising from the seabed. Divers can encounter hammerheads, sea horses, and sea lions. The volcanic activity and unique marine encounters make it an enthralling destination.
5. Elizabeth Bay
Known for its scenic beauty, Elizabeth Bay is suitable for both scuba and freediving. It boasts rich marine biodiversity, including penguins, sea lions, and turtles. The site is a part of the Galapagos Marine Reserve, ensuring protection and vibrant underwater life.
The best Months to Dive in Isabela
Though you can dive year round in the Galapagos, the most popular time is between December and June when the sea conditions are warmest (around 25°C) and calmest. This is the best time to see manta rays and there are often more hammerheads.
From June to December is the dry season and the change of winds mean that the water is cooler - 22°C. This coldest water can bring rougher ocean conditions but this is the best time of year to see whale sharks.