Isabela Island

Isabela Island stands out as the largest island in the Galapagos archipelago, taking up over half of the total land area. It's formed by six massive volcanoes merged together, creating a unique seahorse-shaped landmass that houses some of Ecuador's most spectacular wildlife and landscapes.

The island's volcanic history has created an otherworldly environment where black lava fields meet pristine white beaches. Wildlife thrives here with extraordinary diversity - from the famous giant tortoises (with shell patterns unique to each volcano region) to flightless cormorants that can only be found on Isabela and neighboring Fernandina. The Galapagos penguin, the only penguin species found north of the equator, can often be spotted darting through the cool waters surrounding the island.

Isabela's main town, Puerto Villamil, offers a laid-back atmosphere with sandy streets and a peaceful vibe that feels worlds away from mainland Ecuador. The island's relatively low tourism numbers compared to Santa Cruz or San Cristóbal means visitors can experience a more authentic connection with the natural environment. From the sulfur-filled crater of Sierra Negra (one of the largest volcanic calderas in the world) to the iconic Wall of Tears built by prisoners in the mid-20th century, Isabela provides a fascinating blend of natural wonders and human history that makes it a standout destination in the already remarkable Galapagos Islands.