The largest and youngest of the Galapagos Islands in the west of the archipelago has attracted attention in recent years because of repeated spectacular volcano eruptions. The volcanoes Wolf, Darwin, Alecedo, Sierra Negra and Cerro Azul are all at an altitude of between 1,100 and 1,700 metres and boast large craters up to 10 kilometres in size. The Sierra Negra volcano is a popular destination for a day hike. Its parasitic cone, Chico volcano, constantly spews forth hot steam. Thanks to more recent outbreaks it is now possible to look at and walk on lava layers ranging from young to old. By contrast, in the neighbouring Alecedo volcano several thousand giant tortoises still live which belong to the sub-species of the same name (Tortuga Alcedo, Geochelone elephantopus radenburghi).

Only the south of Isabela is populated. Puerto Villamil now has a population of over 1,000, a few boarding houses including the pretty little hotel “La Casa de Marita”, restaurants and shops. The small sleepy town is located on a long sandy beach. Just outside the town there is the tortoise breeding station which can be reached by means of a brand new, lovingly crafted nature trail.

The vegetation on Isabela is very abundant and many rare types of birds can be observed. In the lagunas there are flamingos and extensive colonies of impressive large land iguanas and marine lizards are just a short boat trip away. On Isabela there are even larger populations of different sub-species of the giant tortoise. Their habitats are not normally accessible to most tourists.

Isabela boasts a tropical atmosphere, coupled with animal and plant diversity and impressive volcano activity. The beautiful beach has inns as well as a cocktail bar to chill out. The relatively new airport for small planes has woken Isabela from its sleepy state. A several day stay is very much recommended.

Helpful links with further information on the Internet can be found in the Directory. For a collection of photo impressions plese refer to "Impressions: Isabela".