Did you know there’s a place in Galápagos where penguins swim among tropical mangroves? Bahía Elizabeth or Elizabeth Bay, located on the west coast of Isabela Island, is that unique marine paradise where nature defies all logic. There you’ll find one of the largest penguin colonies in the archipelago, sea turtles navigating between mangrove roots, and sea lions resting in the mangrove tree zone.

This marine sanctuary is only accessible through multi-day cruises, as there are no daily tours from Puerto Villamil, and it’s precisely this exclusivity that keeps its ecosystem pristine. We invite you to learn more about this site surrounded by mangroves that hosts a great diversity of marine life, in a geological environment formed by lava cliffs and narrow channels.

Cover photo: Rocks and Trees on Shore. Photo by Diego F. Parra on Pexels.

What is Elizabeth Bay and where exactly is it located?#

Volcanic Rocks in Elizabeth Bay on Isabela Island in the Galápagos.
Photo by MasterfulNerd, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.

Geographic location

Bahía Elizabeth is located on the western coast of Isabela Island, specifically on the Istmo Perry (Perry Isthmus), that narrow waist that connects the north and south parts of the largest island in Galápagos. The exact coordinates take you to a protected marine refuge that combines centuries-old mangroves with volcanic lava formations, creating a spectacular visual contrast that you won’t find anywhere else in the archipelago.

The bay is formed by the union of the Sierra Negra and Alcedo volcanoes, two active giants that shaped this unique landscape. Unlike other visitor sites on Isabela that you can explore from Puerto Villamil, Elizabeth Bay is on the opposite side of the island, accessible only by sea during cruises that navigate the western islands.

Unique characteristics of the mangrove-lava ecosystem

What makes this place extraordinary is the coexistence of tropical mangroves with fauna typical of cold waters. Imagine Galápagos penguins swimming among red mangrove roots while tropical frigatebirds fly over black lava fields. This unique combination exists thanks to the convergence of ocean currents that bring nutrients from the depths, feeding a food chain that sustains everything from microscopic phytoplankton to hammerhead sharks.

The mangroves of Elizabeth Bay are the tallest in Galápagos, with some red mangrove specimens (Rhizophora mangle) reaching up to 20 meters in height. Their roots create an aquatic labyrinth that serves as a natural nursery for hundreds of juvenile marine species.

Why is it a “no landing” site?

Elizabeth Bay is exclusively a marine site where landing is not permitted. This regulation is not arbitrary; it protects one of the most fragile ecosystems in the archipelago. The mangroves and the fauna colonies that inhabit this area are extremely sensitive to human disturbance. By keeping visitors in pangas (small boats), the impact is minimized while allowing intimate observation of wildlife from the water, often just meters away.

How can you visit Elizabeth Bay?#

Can you go from Puerto Villamil?

Many travelers ask if they can visit Elizabeth Bay on a day tour from Puerto Villamil. The answer is no. The distance, open sea conditions, and National Park regulations make this option impossible. Elizabeth Bay is approximately 4 hours of navigation from Puerto Villamil in ideal conditions, but there are no permits for daily tours to this protected site.

Your only option to experience this paradise is to book a cruise of at least 4 days that includes the western islands in its itinerary. Not all cruises visit Elizabeth Bay, so it’s essential to verify the detailed itinerary before booking.

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Cruises that include Elizabeth Bay in 2026

To explore all cruise options that visit Elizabeth Bay, contact us. Our advisors will provide you with the best alternatives, and with their help you can choose:

Cruise duration (5-8 days typically include Elizabeth Bay)
Category (tourist, first class, luxury)
Departure dates
Specific visitor sites

Cruises that typically include Elizabeth Bay operate western routes and usually also visit:

Punta Moreno
Tagus Cove
Fernandina
Punta Espinoza
Urbina Bay

How to verify itineraries before booking?

Before deciding on a cruise, specifically verify that “Elizabeth Bay” or “Bahía Elizabeth” appears in the day-by-day itinerary. Some operators may mention “West Isabela” generically without including this site. Write to us and we’ll plan your cruise together! We’ll show you the detailed itineraries of each vessel, so you can know exactly which sites you’ll visit each day.

How much does it cost to visit Elizabeth Bay?#

Cruise costs by category

Visiting Elizabeth Bay requires a significant investment, but the experience justifies every penny. There are tourist class cruises, first class cruises, and luxury cruises. To compare options and find the best deals, write to us and we’ll organize your dream trip to Galápagos.

Mandatory fees updated 2026

In addition to the cruise cost, you must budget for these mandatory fees:

National Park entrance fee: $200 USD (increased from $100 in August 2024)
Transit Control Card (TCT): $30 USD
Tips for crew and guide
Wetsuit rental
Alcoholic beverages (not included)

These prices include all fees but not flights to Galápagos. For more information on how to plan your complete budget, write to us.

What animals will you see in Elizabeth Bay?#

Galapagos penguin (Spheniscus mendiculus) at Elizabeth Bay on the island of Isabela.
Photo by putneymark, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons.

Galápagos penguins on Marielas islets

The Marielas islets, right at the entrance of the bay, are home to one of the largest Galápagos penguin colonies in the archipelago. Between 50 and 200 individuals live here, depending on the season. These small penguins (the only ones that live north of the equator) have chosen this place because of the cold, nutrient-rich currents that bring their favorite fish.

During your panga visit, you’ll get within meters of these charismatic penguins. You’ll see them dive like torpedos from the rocks, swimming at speeds of up to 35 km/h chasing schools of anchovies. The best time to photograph them is early in the morning when they’re most active fishing.

Green turtles

Elizabeth Bay is known as the “sea turtle spa” of Galápagos. Groups of 20 to 40 green turtles are regularly observed resting in the calm waters of the bay. The most fascinating thing is seeing them navigating between the mangrove roots, a unique behavior that takes advantage of the warm, protected waters to thermoregulate.

During snorkeling (when conditions allow), you can swim alongside these gentle giants that can weigh up to 150 kg. Remember to always respect the 2-meter distance and never touch them, even if they curiously approach you.

Sea lions

One of the most peculiar behaviors you’ll observe is juvenile sea lions resting on the low branches of the mangroves. This Elizabeth Bay scene occurs during high tide when they seek dry places to rest.

White-tip sharks and rays

The crystal-clear waters allow you to observe groups of white-tip sharks resting on the sandy bottom from the panga. Golden eagle rays also patrol these waters, with their elegant underwater “flights” creating a hypnotic spectacle.

Endemic birds

In Elizabeth Bay you can observe bird species such as: flightless cormorant, lava heron, brown pelican, blue-footed booby, and frigatebirds.

What is the best time to visit Elizabeth Bay?#

Warm season (January-May)

January-February: Calmer seas, perfect visibility for snorkeling, sea turtles more active. Water temperature: 77-81°F.

March-April: Sea turtle mating season, increased tropical bird activity, occasional rains that clear the air. Ideal for photography.

May: Perfect transition period, sea still calm, migratory birds begin to arrive.

Cool season (June-December)

June-August: Arrival of the Humboldt Current, more nutrients in the water, greater activity of penguins and sea lions. Possibility of spotting humpback whales.

September-October: Peak penguin activity, colder water (68-72°F) but teeming with marine life. Rougher seas on some days.

November-December: Transition to warm season, good visibility, reproductive behaviors of various species.

For more details on when to travel, check out our complete guide on the best time to visit Galapagos.

Things to do in Elizabeth Bay#

These are the activities you can do during your visit to Elizabeth Bay:

Panga ride through mangroves

Your adventure begins when you board the panga from your cruise. For 2 hours you’ll navigate through narrow channels bordered by giant mangroves. The silence is only broken by the splashing of penguins hunting or the snorting of a curious sea lion. Your naturalist guide will turn off the motor at strategic points so you can absorb the sounds of this unique ecosystem.

Snorkeling opportunities

When conditions permit, you’ll have 45 minutes of snorkeling in protected waters. The crystal-clear water offers visibility of up to 50 feet. You’ll swim among sea turtles, schools of fish, and if you’re lucky, playful juvenile sea lions.

Wildlife photography

Elizabeth Bay is any photographer’s dream. Bring your specialized equipment and you’ll get unique photographs.

Elizabeth Bay vs other sites on Isabela Island#

Comparison with Las Tintoreras

Elizabeth Bay is accessible only on cruises, while Las Tintoreras offers daily tours from Puerto Villamil. In terms of wildlife, Elizabeth Bay is home to between 50 and 200 penguins, compared to the 5 to 20 typically found at Las Tintoreras. Landing is not permitted at Elizabeth Bay, unlike Las Tintoreras, where it is possible to walk a trail. Additionally, Elizabeth Bay has some of the tallest mangroves in the archipelago, something Las Tintoreras does not have. The cost of visiting also varies significantly between the two sites. Finally, in terms of exclusivity, Elizabeth Bay is considered a high-exclusivity experience, while Las Tintoreras offers a medium level.

Differences with Los Tuneles

Los Tuneles offers unique lava formations and excellent snorkeling, accessible on day tours. Elizabeth Bay stands out for its mangrove ecosystem and one of the largest penguin colonies in the Galapagos. If you must choose one for a short trip, Los Tuneles is more accessible. But for a complete Galapagos experience, Elizabeth Bay is unbeatable.

Advantages over Concha de Perla

Concha de Perla is free and accessible by walking from Puerto Villamil, perfect for tight budgets. Elizabeth Bay offers ten times more wildlife, more pristine waters and zero crowds. The extra investment is worth it if you’re looking for the ultimate Galapagos experience.

Conservation and Regulations 2026#

Ecological importance of the site

Elizabeth Bay is a natural laboratory where scientists study how species from different climate zones coexist. The mangroves here sequester more carbon per hectare than any Amazonian forest, while their roots filter sediments protecting nearby coral reefs.

The bay also functions as a critical biological corridor for migratory species. Humpback whales use these protected waters to nurse their calves during their 5,000-mile migration from Antarctica.

New National Park regulations

Since 2024, the National Park has implemented stricter regulations:

Maximum 16 visitors per panga
Minimum distance of 2 meters from all wildlife
Use of drones prohibited without special permission
No flash photography of wildlife
Maximum visit time: 2 hours

The increase in the entrance fee to $200 USD directly finances the protection of sites like Elizabeth Bay, with 40% allocated to the National Park for conservation.

What to bring to Elizabeth Bay?#

Sunscreen
Waterproof camera/waterproof case
Compact binoculars
Hat with cord
Polarized sunglasses with strap
Lightweight windbreaker
Layered clothing

Frequently asked questions about Elizabeth Bay#

Do I need to know how to swim to visit Elizabeth Bay?

It’s not mandatory. Most of the visit is by panga. Snorkeling is optional and always with a life jacket.

Are there bathrooms available during the visit?

There are no facilities on site. Use the cruise ship bathrooms before boarding the panga.

Can I visit Elizabeth Bay while pregnant?

Yes, the panga ride is safe. Consult with your doctor about snorkeling.

What happens if there’s bad weather?

Cruise ships have alternative itineraries. If Elizabeth Bay is inaccessible, they will visit equally spectacular nearby sites.

Is the extra cost worth it vs day tours?

Absolutely. Elizabeth Bay offers experiences impossible to replicate on land tours. It’s the difference between seeing Galapagos and truly experiencing Galapagos.

10 common mistakes you should avoid#

Thinking you can visit Elizabeth Bay from Puerto Villamil – Impossible, only cruise ships.
Not verifying the detailed itinerary – Not all cruises go there.
Forgetting cash for the park fee – $200 USD cash mandatory.
Only bringing wide-angle – You need a telephoto lens for wildlife observation.
Not protecting your equipment – The humidity is extreme.
Expecting to disembark – This is solely a marine visit.
Ignoring the tides – They affect visibility and access.
Underestimating seasickness – Take preventive medication.
Not bringing sun protection – Water reflection doubles exposure.
Booking last minute – Cruises to Elizabeth Bay fill up months in advance.

Cruise in Galápagos
Photo on Pixabay.

Why should Elizabeth Bay be on your list? Elizabeth Bay represents the purest essence of Galapagos: a place where nature still dictates the rules, where tropical penguins defy geography, and where every visitor becomes a privileged witness to evolution in action. Yes, it requires a significant investment and advance planning, but the experiences you’ll have here are priceless.

From the moment your panga enters the bay and you see your first penguin diving among the mangroves, you’ll understand why this place is so special. It’s not just another visitor site; it’s a portal to a world where nature still reigns supreme.

Ready to live the adventure of your life? Contact us, explore your different options and find the perfect cruise that includes this site. Remember that our team of experts can help you plan every detail so your experience in this marine paradise is absolutely unforgettable.

Also, check out more options to discover the enchanted islands through our Galapagos tours; and learn more about what to do in Galapagos and what to do in Isabela.

We’ll help you make your dream of visiting one of the largest penguin colonies in Galapagos come true!

Elizabeth Bay: Visit one of the largest penguin colonies in Galápagos