Cormorant Point, Ecuador

A wildlife-rich stop in a volcanic wonderland.

A close-up of a male marine iguana with vibrant red and black skin, basking on volcanic rock at Cormorant Point in the Galapagos Islands.

Overview

Cormorant Point, Ecuador Cruise Port

Cormorant Point (Punta Cormorant) is a highly significant visitor site located on the northern coast of Floreana Island in the Galápagos archipelago. This unique visitor site is characterized by its distinctive green-tinted beach (due to olivine crystals), a tranquil lagoon known for its pink flamingos, and a "flour sand" beach (composed of fine white coral) which serves as a crucial nesting site for green sea turtles. It's a place of diverse ecosystems in a relatively small area, offering incredible opportunities for wildlife viewing and understanding the Galápagos' unique geological and biological processes.

Cormorant Point is a quintessential expedition cruise stop for itineraries exploring the central and southern Galápagos Islands. Large cruise ships do not dock here; access is exclusively via Zodiac inflatable boats that bring passengers ashore for guided walks. The site's protected status means all visits are conducted with strict adherence to National Park rules, always accompanied by a certified naturalist guide. A visit to Cormorant Point offers cruise passengers an unparalleled opportunity to observe iconic Galápagos wildlife in their natural habitat, from flamingos and various seabirds to nesting sea turtles, providing an intimate and unforgettable connection with the archipelago's unique biodiversity.

Top Things to Do in Cormorant Point, Ecuador

Spot Pink Flamingos at the Lagoon:

Visit the brackish lagoon, a vital feeding ground for pink flamingos, which are a highlight of Cormorant Point. Observe these elegant birds wading in the shallow waters, often alongside other wetland birds like pintails and stilts.

Tip: Bring binoculars for the best views of the flamingos and other lagoon birds, as they can sometimes be at a distance.

Witness Green Sea Turtle Nesting Sites:

Walk along the fine, white "flour sand" beach, which is a critical nesting site for green sea turtles (December to May). During nesting season, you might see evidence of nests or even, with luck, an adult female turtle coming ashore to lay eggs, or tiny hatchlings emerging (though sightings are not guaranteed).

Tip: Remain quiet and maintain a respectful distance from any wildlife. Follow your guide's instructions precisely to avoid disturbing the nesting turtles.

Explore the Unique Green Beach:

Marvel at the striking green-tinted beach, colored by olivine crystals (volcanic minerals). This unique geological feature provides a stark and beautiful contrast to the typical white or black sand beaches of the Galápagos.

Tip: Take photographs to capture the unusual color of the sand, which becomes more evident under bright sunlight.

Observe Diverse Marine Birds:

Keep an eye out for a variety of marine birds in the area. Common sightings include blue-footed boobies diving for fish, pelicans roosting, and various species of gulls and sandpipers along the shorelines.

Tip: Your naturalist guide will help point out and identify the different bird species present.

Snorkel with Sea Lions and Reef Fish:

If snorkeling is offered at the landing site (or a nearby designated area), take the opportunity to swim alongside playful Galápagos sea lions, colorful reef fish, and possibly even small sharks or rays in the clear waters.

Tip: Use a waterproof camera to capture the vibrant underwater world. Always enter the water quietly to avoid startling marine life.

Learn About Geological Formations:

Gain insights into the geological history of Floreana Island from your naturalist guide. Understand how volcanic activity and erosion have shaped the unique landscape, including the formation of the distinct green and white sand beaches.

Tip: Ask your guide about the different types of volcanic rock and their origins visible around the point.

Overview