Española Island Tour: Waved Albatross and Wildlife Adventure

Overview

Available languages

English

Spanish

Mobile ticket

Explore the secluded beauty of Española Island, one of the Galapagos' hidden gems, renowned for its unique wildlife. This exclusive tour allows you to witness the only nesting site of the Waved Albatross, along with various reptiles, seabirds, and marine mammals up close. Enjoy the chance to see dolphins and whales during the journey, enhancing your experience in this pristine ecosystem. Perfect for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers, this expedition offers expert guidance and an immersive connection with nature.

Española is a strictly protected site managed by the Galápagos National Park. Visitor access is limited to authorized guides and approved itineraries to ensure minimal environmental impact. Its delicate ecosystems exemplify the balance between conservation and responsible tourism that defines the Galápagos Islands.

Please note that meeting times may vary due to weather conditions, safety considerations, and operational requirements for a smoothest and safest experience.

Additional Info

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation Policy

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

What To Expect

Espanola

Location: Southeastern Galápagos Archipelago Distance from San Cristóbal: Approximately 2 hours by speedboat Española Island is the oldest and most isolated island of the Galápagos, estimated at around 4 million years old. Due to its remoteness, it has evolved into a unique ecosystem home to numerous endemic species found nowhere else on Earth. The island is celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes, abundant wildlife, and world-class snorkeling and diving sites.

4 hours • Admission Not Applicable

Bajo Gardner (Gardner Islet Reef Area) Overview: Bajo Gardner is a shallow marine site located off the coast of Gardner Bay, known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and rich underwater biodiversity. It’s a premier snorkeling (or scuba diving depending on the 'add ons') location, offering encounters with Galápagos sea lions, tropical reef fish, rays, and sometimes white-tipped reef sharks. Highlights: Calm, shallow waters ideal for snorkeling and beginners Frequent presence of playful sea lions and colorful parrotfish Occasional sightings of green sea turtles and Galápagos hawkfish Coral and rock formations that attract a wide range of marine species Experience: Visitors often snorkel from the boat or drift along the reef edge, surrounded by the curious sea lions that characterize Española’s marine life.

1 hour • Admission Not Applicable

What‘s Included

Bottled water

Clean Towels

Snacks

Swimming life vest (life jacket)

Mask, snorkel and fins

Restroom on board

Coffee and/or Tea

Vegetarian, vegan and regular food options offered along the excursion.

Sunscreen

Video or photographic camera

Wetsuit

Alcoholic Beverages

Options

Scuba Dive (1 dive)

1 Immersion at Gardner
Duration: 1 hour
Same Route to Española!: You'll be going in the same yacht with your friends! Divers have their own guide and snorkelers theirs.

Snorkelling Adventure!

Snorkel

Reviews

4.00

2 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

Misleading info provided by TA - Espanola Island Dec 5,2025
Rns90,,Dec 8, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
3.00
I reserved this trip through TA Went to pick up snorkeling gear at a local tour operator shop, was advised then, that the tour commences @6:00a.m and not 8:30am as indicated by TA when they sent me a confirmation number. This is misleading, as the tour operator runs a constant time of 6:00pm on Fridays for this trip. TA should have the most updated info for their clients. I also paid premium price for the experience, compared to anyone else on the boat, with a no cancellation policy by TA. This is not a fair practice, misleading info regarding the trip start time, and no cancellation , was advised last minute by local tour operator of start time not TA who should have contacted me regarding the time. Do not book through TA, book directly with local tour operator, for reliable info and reasonable price. The guide was knowledgeable, though she did not wait for the full group , to be together, prior to giving info on the Island and wildlife We found we were always playing catch up with her. We were also left behind, as she went ahead with the group who could keep up with her. We could have been hurt or needed help , for all she cared The hike is on huge uneven boulders, for 2 hours. One has to be very careful with footing.
Truly magical and unforgettable
Stephanie G,,Dec 7, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
It was amazing. The crew took great care of us and our guide Jorddy was outstanding and knew so much about the island and the animals and birds. Such an enriching experience that we will never forget. Though the hike is challenging, it is definitely worth it for all the amazing things you will not see anywhere else. The snorkeling experience was also above and beyond with with our guide Jorddy making it even more memorable with highlights and our swim with the sea lions and lava tube. Don't hesitate to book for an unforgettable experience.