Walking On Extraordinary Lava Formations And Sorkeling
Los Tuneles / Cabo Rosa Day Tour
The 'Los Túneles' visitor site, also known as Cabo Rosa, is located approximately 1 hour by boat west of Puerto Villamil on the south coast of Isabela. The geologically interesting formations were formed by lava flows that passed underground creating tunnels, which then collapsed and left these special arches over the water.
On the way to the tunnels, you stop at a rock called "La Unión" in the open sea where you can observe pelicans, Nazca boobies, Blue-footed boobies (Sula nebouxii), and sea lions (most probable Zalophus wollebaeki) resting on the rock.
The landing for the walk over the arches (about 1 hour) is dry and the water surounding them is crystal clear, you can very well observe the flora and fauna. This rich ecosystem is home to Blue-footed boobies, sea lions, golden rays, eagle rays, stingrays, sea turtles, seahorses and starfish.
Snorkeling is also part of the tour and considered as some of the best snorkel experiences in the archipelago. It takes place near the tunnels. The tunnel ecosystem itself is too fragile to allow snorkeling or diving.




Highlights
- Pelicans
- Nazca boobies
- Blue-footed boobies
- Sea lions
- Golden rays
- Eagle rays
- Stingrays
- Sea turtles
- Seahorses
- Starfish
Activity
The tour is a half-day excursion and is therefore offered in the morning (start around 8:00 am, end 12:30 pm), and in the afternoon (start around 1:30 pm, end 6:00 pm).
It includes transportation, a bilingual (Spanish/English) naturalist guide from the Galapagos National Park, snorkel gear, towel service, and snacks.
Entering the tunnels’ bay can be challenging on days with rough seas. In rare cases, the tour cannot be operated due to the weather conditions.