Isla Lobos Day Tour – Sea Lions, Boobies & Snorkeling in Galápagos

Our Isla Lobos day tour takes you to a small, peaceful islet just off the coast of San Cristóbal, separated from the main island by a narrow channel. True to its name (“lobos” means sea lions in Spanish), this site is home to a thriving colony of Galápagos sea lions, along with nesting blue-footed boobies and frigatebirds. This half-day excursion combines an easy guided walk with snorkeling in calm, sea lion-filled waters and relaxing beach time at Playa Ochoa — a great option for travelers with limited time who still want an unforgettable wildlife encounter.

Looking for more options in the area? Check out our excursions in San Cristóbal, and for official park regulations visit the Galápagos National Park Directorate.

Isla Lobos Day Tour Itinerary

08:00 – 08:15 | Pick-up & check-in
Meet at the departure point in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. Safety briefing and boarding.

08:15 – 08:45 | Navigation to Isla Lobos
A short 30-minute boat ride across the channel that separates San Cristóbal from the islet.

08:45 – 09:45 | Isla Lobos – Guided walk
A dry landing followed by an easy trail over lava rock and volcanic boulders, home to nesting frigatebirds and blue-footed boobies, resting sea lions, lava lizards, and shorebirds such as pelicans and swallow-tailed gulls.

09:45 – 10:45 | Snorkeling in the Isla Lobos channel
Snorkel in the crystal-clear channel between the islet and San Cristóbal, where curious young sea lions often swim right alongside visitors. Sea turtles, rays, and colorful reef fish are commonly spotted too.

10:45 – 11:15 | Navigation to Playa Ochoa
Short transfer to a nearby white-sand beach.

11:15 – 12:15 | Lunch & Playa Ochoa – Beach & second snorkel
Box lunch served on board, followed by free time on the beach with sea lions, and the option for a second snorkel in calm waters.

12:15 – 12:45 | Return navigation to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno

13:00 | Tour ends

What’s Included in the Isla Lobos Day Tour

• Bilingual certified naturalist guide
• Round-trip boat transportation
• Snorkeling gear (mask, snorkel, fins)
• Box lunch, snacks, and bottled water
• Galápagos National Park entrance coordination

Not Included

• Galápagos National Park entrance fee ($200 USD, paid on arrival)
• Transit Control Card (INGALA, $20 USD)
  Tips
• Wetsuit rental (recommended, water can be cool)
• Hotel–dock transfer (depending on operator)

Requirements

• Basic swimming ability for snorkeling
• Comfortable walking shoes for the uneven, rocky trail
• Good general physical condition (short, easy walk of about 1 km)

Recommendations

Ready to swim with sea lions and spot blue-footed boobies up close? Book your Isla Lobos day tour today and enjoy one of the most accessible wildlife encounters in San Cristóbal.

• Bring biodegradable sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent
• Light long sleeves recommended for sun protection on the trail
• Underwater camera for snorkeling (optional)
• Book in advance: spots are limited due to Galápagos National Park regulation