Tintoreras islet channels in Puerto Villamil, Isabela

Tintoreras Islet: Shark Crevices & Galapagos Penguin Snorkel

Trek across rugged basalt flows where dozens of white-tip reef sharks rest in crystalline fissures, then snorkel beside playful penguins.

Just 10 minutes from Puerto Villamil dock, Tintoreras is a jagged volcanic islet. A trail leads to a calm turquoise fissure where dozens of white-tip reef sharks sleep during the day. Afterward, snorkel in the sheltered cove among Galapagos penguins, marine turtles, and swimming marine iguanas.

Galapagos penguins reside year-round, with peak foraging activity during the cool Humboldt current season (June-November).

What you will see

  • Galapagos Penguin
  • White-tip Reef Shark
  • Galapagos Sea Lion

Highlights

  • Gazing at resting reef sharks just feet below you in the crystal fissure

Tours that include it

Frequently asked questions

When is the best time for this activity?

All year round. Galapagos penguins reside year-round, with peak foraging activity during the cool Humboldt current season (June-November).

How long does it take?

Half Day (3 hours)

Which animals can I see?

Galapagos Penguin, White-tip Reef Shark, Galapagos Sea Lion

How demanding is it?

easy

Is it included in any of our tours?

Yes, it is part of: Galapagos Encounter: 6-Day Expedition; Galapagos Explorer: 7-Day Island Expedition; Galapagos Grand Odyssey: 8-Day 3-Island Expedition; Ecuador & Galapagos Signature Highlights: 11 Days.

Add it to your trip

We build you a private trip with this activity, on your dates and at your pace.

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