Elizabeth Bay (Isabela), Galapagos Islands

A peaceful inlet alive with unique Galápagos wildlife.

A Galápagos penguin stands on a rugged, volcanic rock at Elizabeth Bay, with its head turned to the side, and the blue ocean and a lush green island in the background.

Overview

Elizabeth Bay (Isabela), Galapagos Islands Cruise Port

Elisabeth Bay is a unique and captivating visitor site located on the west coast of Isabela Island, the largest island in the Galápagos Archipelago, Ecuador. Unlike many other Galápagos sites, there is no landing permitted at Elisabeth Bay. Instead, the exploration is conducted entirely by panga (small motorized dinghy) or kayak, allowing visitors to navigate a serene labyrinth of mangroves, small islets, and calm lagoons. The bay's sheltered waters and dense mangrove forests create an ideal habitat and feeding ground for an incredible diversity of marine and coastal wildlife, offering an intimate and unparalleled viewing experience of iconic Galápagos species in their natural environment.

Elisabeth Bay is a key stop on Galápagos expedition cruises, particularly those focusing on the western islands. Cruise ships typically anchor offshore, and guests embark on panga or kayak excursions directly from the vessel. A visit to Elisabeth Bay offers cruise passengers a peaceful and immersive encounter with the Galápagos' rich biodiversity, providing close-up views of fascinating wildlife without disturbing their delicate ecosystem. It's a highlight for those seeking quiet observation and stunning photographic opportunities.

Top Things to Do in Elizabeth Bay (Isabela), Galapagos Islands

Panga (Dinghy) Ride Through the Mangroves

Embark on a guided panga ride that navigates through the calm, shallow waters and intricate channels of the bay's extensive mangrove forests. This allows for incredibly close-up views of the wildlife that inhabits this unique ecosystem.

Tip: Keep your eyes peeled and cameras ready! Your naturalist guide will help spot animals camouflaged within the mangroves and explain their behaviors.

Spot Galápagos Penguins

Elisabeth Bay is one of the best places in the Galápagos to see the Galápagos Penguin, the only penguin species found north of the equator. Look for them on the rocky islets (like Marielas Islets) and swimming agilely in the bay's cool waters.

Tip: Penguins are excellent swimmers; watch for them darting through the water hunting for fish.

Observe Green Sea Turtles and Rays

Peer into the clear, tranquil waters to spot Green Sea Turtles resting or gracefully gliding through the bay. You may also see various species of rays, including golden rays and spotted eagle rays, as well as white-tip reef sharks.

Tip: The calm waters make for excellent visibility. Sometimes you can see these marine creatures just below the surface from your panga.

Look for Flightless Cormorants and Other Seabirds

Keep an eye out for the unique Flightless Cormorant, endemic to the Galápagos. They can often be seen drying their vestigial wings on rocks. Other seabirds like brown pelicans, lava herons, and various shorebirds also frequent the bay.

Tip: The flightless cormorant is a prime example of adaptation in the Galápagos; observe its awkward land movements and graceful swimming.

Kayaking (If Offered by Your Cruise)

Some expedition cruises offer the option of kayaking in Elisabeth Bay. This provides an even more intimate and silent way to explore the mangroves and get exceptionally close to the wildlife at water level.

Tip: Kayaking offers a serene experience. Listen to the sounds of nature and enjoy the peaceful glide through this special environment.

Witness Marine Iguanas

Observe Marine Iguanas basking on the lava rocks along the shoreline and on small islets. These unique reptiles feed on marine algae and can be seen diving into the water or expelling salt through their nasal glands.

Tip: Elisabeth Bay is known for larger specimens of marine iguanas due to the abundant food supply. They are often motionless, blending into the dark rocks.

Overview