Isla Isabela (Isabela, or Albemarle Island)

Isla Isabela (Isabela, or Albemarle Island) was named in honor of Queen Isabella I of Castile, who was one of the people who sponsored Columbus' voyage during which he discovered the Americas. It is the largest island of the Galápagos archipelago and it 4,640 km² (1,790 sq mi) of lowland vegetation. The island's highest point is Volcán Wolf (Wolf Volcano), which is 1,707 m (5,600 ft) above sea level.

Isabela Island was formed, when 6 seperate volcanic islands merged into one, due to repeated eruptions. The island is home to Gal´pagos penguins, flightless cormorants, marine iguanas, pelicans, Sally Lightfoot crabs, land iguanas and Galápagos tortoises. Bird species include Darwin finches, Galápagos hawks and Galápagos doves.

Puerto Villamil is located at the southeastern tip of the island.

El Muro de las Lágrimas (the Wall of tears) is a wall that was constructed between 1945 and 1959 by prisoners in the penal colony on the island. The wall is 8 m (25 ft) tall and got its name because of its eerie cries that, according to locals, eminate from it.

Hotels in Isla Isabela

Images

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