Isla Lobos Tour – Sea Lions, Boobies & Snorkeling Just Minutes from San Cristóbal
Just a short 30-minute panga ride from Puerto Baquerizo Moreno lies one of the Galápagos’ most magical and accessible wildlife sanctuaries: Isla Lobos. This small islet — its name means “Sea Wolf Island” in Spanish — is one of the most important sea lion breeding colonies on San Cristóbal, and combines superb wildlife observation with outstanding snorkeling in shallow, protected waters, followed by a relaxing stop at a beautiful coral-sand beach. It’s a perfect introduction to the Galápagos for first-time visitors, and a favourite return destination for those who have been before.
Sea Lion Colony
Isla Lobos hosts one of the largest Galápagos sea lion colonies on San Cristóbal Island. The visitor trail that crosses the islet allows you to observe hundreds of sea lions at extremely close range — nursing pups, sparring males, and females sunbathing on the volcanic rock — without disturbing their natural behavior. Blue-footed boobies and frigatebirds nest right alongside the path, often just a few meters away.
Snorkeling with Sea Lions
After the hike, you’ll suit up and jump in the water for 40 minutes to an hour of snorkeling in search of juvenile sea lions, sea turtles, stingrays, and reef fish. Playful young sea lions frequently swim circles around you, blowing bubbles in your face and tugging gently at your fins — one of the most joyful underwater experiences in the Galápagos. Between January and May, warmer waters also bring marine iguanas out to swim and feed alongside snorkelers.
Wildlife Summary
- Galápagos sea lions — hundreds at close range, pups and adults
- Blue-footed Boobies — nesting at point-blank range
- Frigatebirds — soaring overhead, occasionally harassing Boobies
- Sea turtles & rays — regularly spotted while snorkeling
- Marine iguanas — basking on the coastal lava, swimming Jan–May
- Finches, pelicans & seagulls — common along the coast and trail
The Full-Day Itinerary
Departure from the dock at Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, cruising past Tijeretas Bay — where your naturalist guide shares the story of Tijeretas Hill — before continuing about 30 minutes to Isla Lobos.
- Hike (≈1 hour, 850 m trail): a National Park-authorized trail through arid vegetation, volcanic rock and sand, past nesting blue-footed boobies, frigatebirds and large sea lion colonies
- Snorkeling (40 min – 1 hour): back at the boat, gear up and swim with sea lions, turtles, rays and reef fish
- Playa Ochoa (≈1 hour): a short sail to this small coral-sand beach for lunch on board, then time to swim, walk the shore or simply relax — always with your naturalist guide
From Playa Ochoa, the boat returns to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno.
What’s Included
- Round-trip panga transport from Puerto Baquerizo Moreno
- Certified bilingual naturalist guide
- Snorkeling equipment (mask, snorkel, fins, wetsuit)
- Snack, lunch and drinks
- Galápagos National Park fees
Practical Information
Duration: 5–6 hours.
Departure: 8:00 AM (afternoon departure at 1:00 PM also available on request).
Capacity: 16 passengers.
Difficulty: Easy. Suitable for families, children, and visitors of all fitness levels.
Minimum age: 5 years (must be comfortable in calm water for snorkeling).
Water temperature: 23–25°C January–April, 17–21°C May–December.
Before you go: please stop by our office the day before, or at least 45 minutes before departure, for a quick snorkeling gear check — this keeps the whole group on schedule.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to snorkel with sea lions?
Yes — Galápagos sea lions are accustomed to human presence and are naturally playful. They will approach you but not bite. Your guide will brief you on how to behave respectfully around the animals.
Can I walk on the island?
Yes — there is a marked 850-meter visitor trail that allows you to walk through the sea lion colony and Booby nesting areas while keeping you on designated paths to protect the wildlife.
Is lunch included?
Yes — a snack, lunch and drinks are included, served on board before you relax at Playa Ochoa.
