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Islet · Puerto Villamil, Galápagos
Las Tintoreras
Lava islets off Puerto Villamil, with marine iguanas, boobies and a narrow channel where white-tip reef sharks often rest, visited by boat with a guide.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Las Tintoreras
Las Tintoreras are a group of black lava islets in front of the Puerto Villamil harbor, a few minutes by boat. The name comes from the tintoreras, as locals call the white-tip reef sharks.
The visit is done with a licensed guide in a small boat. On the way it is common to see Galápagos penguins, sea lions and blue-footed boobies on the rocks. On the islet, a short trail over the lava passes by colonies of marine iguanas, which nest in the sand, and reaches a narrow channel of calm, clear water where white-tip reef sharks often rest on the bottom.
After the trail, the tour usually includes snorkeling in the surrounding waters, with sea turtles, rays and fish.
On the lava, follow the marked path: the iguanas nest in the sand and should not be disturbed.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 2 to 3 hours.
Best time
In the morning, with calmer seas. Tours depart at set times: book in the village and confirm beforehand.
How to get there
Boats depart from the Puerto Villamil pier on tours organized by the village agencies, with a licensed guide.
Tip
Walk only on the marked trail over the lava and keep your distance from the sharks and iguanas. Wear closed-toe shoes for the lava.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Las Tintoreras
What are the tintoreras?
It's what locals call the white-tip sharks, which usually rest in the islet's channel.
Is a guide required?
Yes, the visit to the Tintoreras is carried out with an accredited guide, by boat.
Can you swim with the sharks?
In the channel, the sharks are observed from above, from the trail. Snorkeling is done in other surrounding waters, with the guide.