Punta Vicente Roca, Galapagos Islands

Punta Vicente Roca is a dramatic cliffside site on Isabela Island.

A beautiful wide shot of the Cabo de São Vicente lighthouse, a historic landmark in Portugal, perched on a dramatic cliffside overlooking the deep blue Atlantic Ocean.

Overview

Punta Vicente Roca, Galapagos Islands Cruise Port

Punta Vicente Roca, located at the northwestern tip of Isabela Island in the Galápagos archipelago, is a truly unique and celebrated visitor site, particularly for underwater enthusiasts. This site lies at the "mouth" of Isabela's seahorse-shaped island formation and was created from the remains of an ancient, collapsed volcano, forming two well-sheltered turquoise coves protected from ocean swells.

Punta Vicente Roca offers no land landing, focusing instead on an exceptional marine experience. Its nutrient-rich waters, influenced by the cold Humboldt Current, attract an abundant diversity of marine life, making it one of the best, if not the best, snorkeling and diving spots in the Galápagos, even globally. Visitors can revel in encounters with diverse marine life, including sea turtles, colorful fish, sharks, rays, and even rarer species like mola mola (ocean sunfish) and Galápagos penguins swimming at the equator. This is an essential stop for anyone looking to experience the extraordinary underwater wonders of the Galápagos.

Top Things to Do in Punta Vicente Roca, Galapagos Islands

Snorkel in Nutrient-Rich Waters

Punta Vicente Roca is consistently rated as one of the best snorkeling sites in the Galápagos. The cool, nutrient-rich waters attract a profusion of marine life. You can swim alongside Galápagos green sea turtles, large schools of fish, various shark and ray species, and, if you're lucky, even spot the massive and unusual mola mola (ocean sunfish), or the playful Galápagos penguins.

Tip: While the water is rich with life, the Humboldt Current makes it quite cool. Most cruises provide wetsuits; make sure to wear one for maximum comfort while snorkeling.

Enjoy a Panga Ride Along the Volcanic Cliffs

Even without a land landing, a panga (dinghy) ride along Punta Vicente Roca's towering volcanic cliffs is a must. This allows you to observe the unique geological formations, such as sea caves and exposed rock layers. You'll also spot numerous seabirds nesting on the cliffs.

Tip: Keep your camera ready during the panga ride; the views of the cliffs and birdlife are incredibly photogenic.

Observe Seabirds from the Boat

Punta Vicente Roca is home to a variety of seabird species. From your panga, you can observe Blue-footed Boobies, Nazca Boobies, and even the rare Flightless Cormorant along the rocky coastline.

Tip: Use binoculars for closer views of the birds perched on the cliffs or diving for food.

Look for the Elusive Ocean Sunfish (Mola Mola)

Punta Vicente Roca is one of the better places in the Galápagos to spot the ocean sunfish (Mola Mola). These massive, oddly shaped creatures are sometimes seen cruising near the surface or in deeper areas.

Tip: While sightings are sporadic, be patient and listen to your guide; they know where and when to look for them.

Observe Galápagos Penguins

Despite their small size, Galápagos penguins are another star of Punta Vicente Roca. They are often seen zipping through the water or perched on rocks along the shore. Swimming with penguins near the equator is an unforgettable experience!

Tip: Penguins are incredibly fast in the water; try to observe them quietly and avoid sudden movements.

Admire the Geological Formation

The geological formations at Punta Vicente Roca are striking, the result of a collapsed ancient volcano. Notice the sheer cliffs and sea caves formed from volcanic tuff rock, providing a visual understanding of the island's geological processes.

Tip: Pay attention to how the Humboldt Current has sculpted this unique underwater landscape.

Overview