Discover one of the most extraordinary islands in the Galápagos National Park. Española Island is the oldest island in the archipelago and is world-renowned for its dramatic landscapes, incredible seabird colonies and unique endemic wildlife.
This full-day adventure combines exceptional snorkeling or scuba diving at Bajo Gardner, a scenic cruise around the pristine shores of Gardner Islet, and a guided hike at Punta Suárez, one of the most spectacular wildlife sites in the Galápagos.
From playful sea lions and colorful tropical fish beneath the surface to waved albatrosses, blue-footed boobies and marine iguanas on land, Española offers an unforgettable experience both above and below the water.
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Discover one of the most extraordinary islands in the Galápagos National Park. Española Island, the oldest island in the archipelago, is world-renowned for its dramatic landscapes, remarkable wildlife and extraordinary biodiversity.
Many visitors believe the island’s main attraction is the Waved Albatross, the only place in the world where this magnificent bird nests. While witnessing these incredible seabirds is undoubtedly a highlight, the true magic of Española goes far beyond a single species.
From the moment you arrive, you’ll find yourself surrounded by breathtaking scenery, soaring cliffs and curious wildlife that seems completely unafraid of people. Watch Galápagos Hawks glide overhead, marine iguanas unique to Española bask on the lava rocks, and playful sea lions resting along the shoreline. Throughout the island, you’ll encounter species that have evolved in isolation over millions of years, making many of the animals found here unique to Española alone.
Combined with exceptional snorkeling or scuba diving at Bajo Gardner, a scenic cruise around the turquoise waters of Gardner Islet, and the unforgettable hike through Punta Suárez, this tour offers one of the richest wildlife experiences in the Galápagos.
Española isn’t just about seeing wildlife—it’s about experiencing one of the most magical and ancient islands in the archipelago, where every step tells part of the evolutionary story that makes the Galápagos unlike anywhere else on Earth.
The adventure begins the day before your tour! You’ll be invited to visit the i-Galápagos office, where we’ll fit your snorkeling equipment and provide a short briefing about the day’s activities, wildlife and what to expect during your excursion.
On the morning of your tour, we’ll meet again at the i-Galápagos before walking together to the Tourist Pier, where a water taxi will take us to our boat. After a final safety briefing, we’ll depart for Española Island.
Our journey to Española takes us across the open waters of the Galápagos Marine Reserve. Along the way, keep an eye out for dolphins, whales (seasonal), sea turtles, oceanic birds and flying fish as your Naturalist Guide shares fascinating information about the islands, ocean currents and marine ecosystem.
Our first activity is either snorkeling or scuba diving at Bajo Gardner, one of Española’s best underwater sites.
The crystal-clear water is home to sea lions, reef sharks, sea turtles, colorful reef fish, rays and an impressive variety of marine life.
If your group includes certified divers, divers will explore deeper sections of the site with a Galápagos Marine Reserve Dive Guide, while snorkelers enjoy the area with the Naturalist Guide, before everyone reunites onboard.
After our underwater adventure, we’ll enjoy a scenic boat ride around Gardner Islet, admiring its white sandy beaches, turquoise waters and one of the largest sea lion colonies in the archipelago.
Your guide will point out the impressive volcanic formations while explaining the unique geology and wildlife of Española.
We’ll make a dry landing before beginning one of the most rewarding hikes in the Galápagos.
This approximately 2 km trail passes through one of the richest seabird colonies in the archipelago, where wildlife roams freely just metres away.
Depending on the season, you may witness the spectacular courtship displays of the Waved Albatross, observe nesting Blue-footed and Nazca Boobies, watch marine iguanas basking on the lava rocks and admire the dramatic ocean blowhole, where waves shoot water high into the air through a natural volcanic fissure.
The scenery is truly breathtaking, with rugged cliffs, endless ocean views and unforgettable wildlife encounters at every turn.
After an incredible day exploring Española Island, we’ll begin our cruise back to San Cristóbal, enjoying one last opportunity to spot marine wildlife as the sun begins to lower over the Pacific.
No. Beginners are welcome, and your Naturalist Guide will provide a safety briefing before entering the water.
Yes! Certified divers are welcome to join this excursion. Divers and snorkelers travel together on the same boat and follow the same itinerary. Divers are accompanied by a certified Galápagos Marine Reserve Dive Guide, while snorkelers explore with a Galápagos Naturalist Guide. A valid scuba certification is required, and diving must be requested in advance when booking.
The hike at Punta Suárez is considered moderate. The trail is mostly rocky and uneven, so comfortable closed-toe walking shoes are highly recommended.
Waved Albatrosses are typically present on Española from April through December, with courtship, nesting and chicks visible at different times throughout the season.
No. This itinerary includes a scenic boat ride around Gardner Islet rather than a beach landing, allowing more time to explore Punta Suárez and Bajo Gardner.
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