Puerto Villamil - Discovering Ecuador

Travelling to Puerto Villamil

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Puerto Villamil, a pretty good destination in Ecuador (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Puerto Villamil and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Puerto Villamil, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Ecuador, here's everything to know about Puerto Villamil for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Puerto Villamil

Puerto Villamil is a small town located on Isabela Island, the largest island of the Galapagos archipelago in Ecuador. It is known for its beautiful white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and diverse wildlife including sea lions, marine iguanas, and giant tortoises. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, hiking, and exploring the lava fields and mangrove forests. The town also offers various restaurants and accommodations for travelers.

What to visit in Puerto Villamil

Puerto Villamil is a beautiful town located on Isabela Island, the largest of the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador. Here are some of the most popular tourist attractions in Puerto Villamil and some information about them: 1. Concha de Perla: It is a famous snorkeling site located in Puerto Villamil where you can spot sea turtles, manta rays, and colorful fish. The crystal clear water makes it easy to see the sea life in the area.
2. Los Tuneles: A snorkeling and diving destination, part of the underwater ecosystem of the Galapagos Islands. Here you can spot an array of marine life such as the iconic blue-footed boobies, sea lions, and penguins, among others. The site is a series of lava arches, bridges and channels formed by the sea flows.
3. Sierra Negra Volcano: An active volcano located in the southern part of Isabela Island. Hiking to the summit offers breathtaking views of the surrounding islands, especially when the clouds lift.
4. Wall of Tears: A historical site with a dark past. It's a wall of volcanic rock built by prisoners during the 1940s on the orders of the prison governor. It is said that many prisoners died while building the wall.
5. Flamingo Lagoon: A shallow lagoon just a few minutes' walk from Puerto Villamil. It is home to pink flamingos and other birdlife.
6. Arnaldo Tupiza Tortoise Breeding Center: Visitors can observe giant tortoises in different stages of breeding. The center preserves and protects these gentle giants for future generations.
7. The Tintoreras: A group of small islets located near Puerto Villamil. The snorkel and dive site offers a playful congregation of sea life including hammerhead sharks, turtles, reef fish species, sea lions and much more. These are just a few top attractions in Puerto Villamil that are worth visiting. Each of them offers a different experience, but all will provide you with an unforgettable trip to the Galapagos Islands.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Ecuador, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Puerto Villamil.

When to go on holiday to Puerto Villamil

The best time to visit Puerto Villamil, Ecuador is during the dry season which is from June to December. During this time, you will experience less rainfall and more opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, snorkeling, and swimming. However, keep in mind that the Galapagos Islands can be visited year-round due to their unique wildlife and natural beauty. If you plan on doing specific activities, such as birdwatching, it may be best to check the best timing for those activities specifically.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Puerto Villamil

Puerto Villamil is a town located on Isabela Island, part of the Galápagos Islands in Ecuador. To get there, you'll first need to fly into Baltra Island airport. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to the Itabaca Channel, where you'll need to take a ferry or boat to Isabela Island. Once you arrive at Isabela Island, you can take either a bus or taxi to Puerto Villamil. The entire trip from Baltra to Puerto Villamil takes around 2-3 hours depending on the mode of transportation. It's important to note that visitors to the Galápagos Islands must have a valid park entrance fee and be accompanied by a licensed naturalist guide.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Puerto Villamil, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Puerto Villamil

Puerto Villamil is a charming fishing village located in the southern part of Isabela Island, in the Galapagos Archipelago. Here are some of the typical foods and their descriptions: 1. Ceviche - A dish made with fresh raw fish (usually white meat fish) marinated in lime or lemon juice, onions, tomatoes, cilantro, and spices. It is often served with popcorn, corn nuts, or plantain chips.
2. Lobster - As Puerto Villamil is a fishing village, it's no surprise that lobster is a popular dish. It's usually grilled and served with garlic butter, parsley, and lemon.
3. Encebollado - A traditional Ecuadorian soup made with fish (often tuna), yuca (cassava), onions, cilantro, and spices. It has a thick, creamy consistency and is often served with pickled red onions and popcorn.
4. Arroz con Menestra y Carne Asada - A rice and beans dish served with grilled beef strips. Menestra is a typical Ecuadorian sauce made with black or white beans blended with onions, garlic, and other spices.
5. Empanadas de Verde - A type of empanada made with green plantains instead of flour. The filling can vary from cheese, chicken, or beef with vegetables, and it's often served with a spicy sauce.
6. Galapagos Coffee - It may not be food, but coffee lovers won't want to miss out on trying the delicious coffee produced in the Galapagos. Grown in volcanic soil, it has a unique taste praised by coffee connoisseurs.
You can find general info about typical foods in Ecuador here.

Is Puerto Villamil an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other destinations in Ecuador, Puerto Villamil can be considered a bit more expensive due to its remote location and limited tourism infrastructure. However, prices may vary depending on the season, accommodation type, and travel style. It is always worth checking online reviews and comparing prices before making a final decision. Despite being a bit more expensive, Puerto Villamil is a beautiful location with stunning nature and wildlife, and it is definitely worth a visit if you have the chance.

Where to find accomodation in Puerto Villamil

In Puerto Villamil, the main area to find accommodation is close to the beachfront Malecon, where there are many hotels, hostels, and vacation rentals. This is a great location as it offers easy access to the beach, as well as to the town's restaurants, bars, and shops. Another area to consider for accommodation is a bit further inland, where you can find more budget-friendly options. This area is still within walking distance of the beach and all the amenities you need, but tends to be a bit quieter and more relaxed.
You can check hotel prices at Puerto Villamil here:
Booking.com

Is Puerto Villamil a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Puerto Villamil is generally considered a safe place for tourists to visit. It is located on the island of Isabela, which is known for its peaceful and tranquil atmosphere. However, as with any travel destination, it is still important to take basic safety precautions such as being aware of your surroundings, avoiding carrying large amounts of cash, and not leaving valuables unattended. It is also a good idea to follow all local laws and regulations, and to be respectful of the local culture and customs.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Ecuador here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Puerto Villamil.

What type of travelers will enjoy Puerto Villamil the most?

Puerto Villamil, Ecuador is a diverse destination that offers experiences for different types of travelers. Here's a breakdown of who would enjoy this destination the most: Couples: Puerto Villamil is a great destination for couples who are looking to experience nature in a peaceful setting. You can explore the pristine beaches or watch the sunset over the ocean.
Families: Puerto Villamil has a variety of activities that families can take part in. You can visit the Tortoise Breeding Center, snorkel or swim with sea lions, or take a boat ride to see penguins and other wildlife.
Young People: Young people who are interested in adventure and exploring the outdoors will enjoy Puerto Villamil. You can hike to Sierra Negra volcano, which is one of the most active volcanoes in the Galapagos Islands, or surf the waves that break along the coast.
In summary, Puerto Villamil is a place for all types of travelers. Whether you're a couple, young adult, or family, there are experiences for everyone in this beautiful destination.

How to get around Puerto Villamil

In Puerto Villamil, the most common mode of transportation is by walking or cycling since it's a small town. However, you can also hire a taxi or rent a golf cart to move around the town. Boat tours are also available to visit nearby islands and attractions.

What to see around Puerto Villamil

Sure, here are some places to consider for a day trip from Puerto Villamil: 1. Los Túneles - this is a unique, volcanic-rock formation in the Pacific Ocean where you can swim and snorkel alongside sea turtles, sharks, and other marine life.
2. Isla Tortuga - this island is located about 12 miles from Puerto Villamil and is home to a variety of animal species, including seabirds, sea lions, and lava herons.
3. Las Grietas - a set of narrow water-filled crevices nestled between volcanic cliffs, Las Grietas is a great place for swimming and snorkeling.
4. Sierra Negra volcano - this is an active volcano located in the Galápagos Islands, and is one of the most popular hiking destinations.
5. Wall of Tears - this infamous wall was built by prisoners during the Second World War and is another popular place to visit.
6. Concha de Perla - a shallow lagoon that's a great place for swimming and snorkeling, and is home to a variety of marine species such as sea lions, fish, and sea turtles.
7. Cerro Orchilla - this is a viewpoint that offers a panoramic view of the island's landscape, including the iconic Darwin Volcano.
For every travel information about Ecuador you can click here.

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