Leave Puerto Ayora for an hour at sea and land among blue-footed boobies, frigatebirds, and dockside sea lions. The day pairs guided shore walks on North Seymour with a reef snorkel at Las Bachas—wildlife viewing and marine time in one full-day outing.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step onto the quay at Itabaca Canal as salt wind and diesel tang meet—boats bob, a yacht slips free, and sea lions noisily stake claim to the rocks. An hour of crossing opens to North Seymour: red volcanic soil, stiff trunks of palo santo trees, and a sky webbed with frigatebird wings. The island greets you with bold wildlife—blue-footed boobies perform their comical courtship dances while swallow-tailed gulls sit like punctuation on the cliffs.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
8 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness: must manage short hikes on uneven ground and board boats without assistance
Wildlife
History
The Galápagos formed from volcanic uplift and repeated lava flows; islands like North Seymour rose as marine platforms then colonized by plants and birds, shaping unique ecosystems.
Conservation
Strict visitor rules, limited daily landings and licensed guides help minimize impact; use reef-safe products and stay on trails to protect fragile habitats.
Reserve your spot on the Day Trip to North Seymour Island from Puerto Ayora today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Start early
Morning crossings are calmer and wildlife is more active—arrive hydrated and with breakfast to maximize sightings.
Use reef-safe sunscreen
Protect coral and marine life by choosing biodegradable sunscreen before snorkeling.
Wear grippy water shoes
Rocky shores and wet landings require shoes with traction to prevent slips.
Follow your guide
Trails are short but sensitive—stay on paths and obey distance rules around wildlife for safety and conservation.
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects marine life and reduces skin damage during extended sun exposure on deck and sand.
Light wetsuit or neoprene top
Keeps you comfortable in cooler ocean currents, especially June–August.
winter
Water shoes with toe protection
Provide traction for rocky landings and protect feet in shallow snorkel zones.
Dry bag and spare clothes
Keeps electronics and spare clothes dry for the return shuttle and changing after snorkeling.