Isla Fernandina, Galapagos Islands Cruises

Isla Fernandina, Galapagos Islands Cruise Port

• Even though the volcano is a great source of excitement for visitors, you won’t be able to get too close; it’s just not safe. Instead, you’ll get to explore the outskirts of the crater.
   
• The visitor site at Punta Espinosa is where you'll disembark to see most of the wildlife action on Isla Fernandina. As the most pristine of the Galápagos Islands, there is an abundance of animal life here. Keep an eye out for a plethora of Marine Iguanas (and mindful of their nesting spots), along with sea lions, penguins, Sally Lightfoot Crabs, Flightless Cormorants, and more.
   
• If you're looking for the small bit of plant life the island allows, Punta Espinosa is also the place to find that. The Lava Cactus, one of the first species known to actually grow on lava flows, survives with very little water (just like desert cacti). You'll find some decently-sized clumps of them in the area.
   
• Divers and snorkelers will love exploring the waters around the island, both at Punta Espinosa and at Punta Mangle in the south. Look for sharks, rays, sea horses, dolphins, and sea cucumbers (which have been hunted illegally almost to extinction).