Tagus Cove
Explore Tagus Cove on Isabela Island, a volcanic wonder offering hikes to Darwin Lake and incredible wildlife encounters, including penguins and cormo...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temps, better wildlife
Tagus Cove
Best Time
Cooler temps, better wildlife
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Tagus Cove on Isabela Island, a volcanic wonder offering hikes to Darwin Lake and incredible wildlife encounters, including penguins and cormorants.
"Swam with penguins! What better way to describe what this site in Galapagos has to offer."
🥾 Wear sturdy hiking shoes
The trail to Darwin Lake is steep and volcanic; good grip is essential.
🥶 Bring a wetsuit for snorkeling
Water temps can be surprisingly cold, even in warmer months.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hike to Darwin Lake
Tagus Cove Trail
A steep but rewarding hike up volcanic slopes to a unique saltwater crater lake with stunning panoramic views.
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Snorkeling with Penguins
Tagus Cove waters
An unforgettable opportunity to swim alongside Galapagos penguins in their natural habitat.
Flightless Cormorant Spotting
Tagus Cove trail stairs
Witness unique Flightless Cormorants nesting and resting on the trail stairs, a rare sight for bird enthusiasts.
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear sturdy hiking shoes
The trail to Darwin Lake is steep and volcanic; good grip is essential.
🥶 Bring a wetsuit for snorkeling
Water temps can be surprisingly cold, even in warmer months.
🐧 Penguin sightings are common
Snorkelers often spot penguins here; keep an eye out!
📸 Capture the unique landscape
The volcanic terrain and Darwin Lake offer incredible photo opportunities.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear sturdy hiking shoes
The trail to Darwin Lake is steep and volcanic; good grip is essential.
🥶 Bring a wetsuit for snorkeling
Water temps can be surprisingly cold, even in warmer months.
🐧 Penguin sightings are common
Snorkelers often spot penguins here; keep an eye out!
📸 Capture the unique landscape
The volcanic terrain and Darwin Lake offer incredible photo opportunities.
🦭 Watch for sea lions
You might be greeted by a friendly sea lion on arrival.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the incredible wildlife encounters at Tagus Cove, particularly the chance to snorkel with penguins and spot Flightless Cormorants. The hike to Darwin Lake is praised for its stunning views, though the cold water for snorkeling is a common point of caution. Overall, it's considered a unique and memorable Galapagos experience.
"Took a beautiful hike around this cove to see the salty lagoon and natural life surrounding it. This was amazing! The trail was about 1.7 miles from the dock to the peak. We were greeted by a happy sea lion on the way in!"
Catherine F
"We snorkeled off Tagus Cove for an hour, the water was cold in mid-December and we needed wetsuits, and I shivered even with one on! I swam with several turtles and there were many colorful fish and jellyfish too, besides beautiful pink and blue corals. When we walked up the stairs to do the 90-minute hike, there were two pairs of Flightless Cormorants on the stairs, one with three eggs in a nest! Gorgeous views during the walk! We went here as part of a 2-week yacht cruise on Coral I with "Go Galapagos" around the Galapagos, in December 2024."
Eileen Weed
"We swam with penguins! What better way to describe what this site in Galapagos has to offer.
This place also has great scenery, and the opportunity to swim with crystal clear waters.
Definitely a unique place to visit."
Juan Sebastián Moncayo O.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Tagus Cove is typically accessed as part of a guided tour or cruise around Isabela Island in the Galapagos. Most visitors arrive by boat from Puerto Villamil or as part of a larger Galapagos itinerary.
No, Tagus Cove is not accessible by car. Access is primarily by boat, followed by a hike or Zodiac ride.
The most popular ways to experience Tagus Cove are through guided hikes to Darwin Lake and snorkeling excursions.
Yes, numerous boat tours and yacht cruises operate in the Galapagos that include Tagus Cove as a stop.
Typically, Zodiacs or pangas are used for shore landings at Tagus Cove from larger cruise ships or tour boats.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Tagus Cove is usually included in your Galapagos National Park entrance fee and the cost of your guided tour or cruise.
Tagus Cove is accessible during daylight hours as part of scheduled tour itineraries. Specific times depend on your tour operator.
The cost is typically part of a larger Galapagos tour package. Individual entry fees are not usually charged for the cove itself.
Independent visits are generally not possible; access is managed through licensed Galapagos tour operators and cruises.
Visitors must adhere to National Park regulations, including staying on marked trails and not disturbing wildlife.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Expect to see Galapagos penguins, Flightless Cormorants, sea lions, marine iguanas, various finches, mockingbirds, and woodpeckers.
The hike is a moderate, steep climb (about 1.7 miles roundtrip) up volcanic terrain to Darwin Lake, offering stunning views. +1
Yes, snorkeling is excellent, with opportunities to see penguins, turtles, colorful fish, and corals, though the water can be cold.
Darwin Lake is a unique saltwater lagoon located within a volcanic crater, offering a distinct ecosystem and beautiful scenery.
There are no visitor facilities like restrooms or shops at Tagus Cove; all necessities should be brought with you.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the dramatic volcanic landscapes, Darwin Lake, nesting seabirds like cormorants, and marine life during snorkeling.
Wildlife is often accustomed to people, allowing for close-up shots, but always maintain a respectful distance.
Early mornings or late afternoons often provide softer light and more active wildlife.
A telephoto lens can be helpful for capturing distant birds or marine life, but a standard zoom is often sufficient.
Drone usage is generally prohibited within Galapagos National Park sites like Tagus Cove to protect wildlife and the environment.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Snorkeling is another highlight, though the cold water might be a challenge for younger children. Ensure they have appropriately sized wetsuits if you plan to snorkel. The chance to see penguins and sea turtles up close is a magical experience that kids will remember long after the trip. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and water, as facilities are limited.
🐠 Wildlife Enthusiasts & Photographers
The volcanic landscapes provide a dramatic backdrop for photography, especially the view from the hike to Darwin Lake. Early morning or late afternoon light can enhance the dramatic textures of the terrain and the vibrant colors of the water. Keep your camera ready for sea lions, marine iguanas, and the diverse birdlife that inhabits the area.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Ecology of Tagus Cove
The hike to Darwin Lake offers a glimpse into another fascinating ecosystem. This saltwater lagoon, situated within a crater, is a result of a phreatomagmatic eruption – a powerful interaction between hot lava and water. The lake's color can shift from blue to green depending on the season and algae bloom, adding to its visual appeal. Birdwatchers will delight in spotting various finches, mockingbirds, and woodpeckers along the trail, showcasing the incredible biodiversity of the Galapagos.
Snorkeling in Tagus Cove provides an immersive experience with the marine life. While the water can be quite cold, especially outside of the warmest months, the rewards are immense. Visitors often report swimming with sea turtles, colorful fish, and even jellyfish. The presence of corals adds another layer of beauty to the underwater landscape. Remember to wear a wetsuit to make the most of this incredible opportunity.
Navigating the Tagus Cove Hike and Snorkel
Upon reaching the summit, you'll be rewarded with a stunning view of Darwin Lake, a striking saltwater crater. The landscape here is stark and beautiful, a testament to the volcanic origins of the Galapagos. Photographers will find ample opportunities to capture the dramatic scenery and the unique geological formations.
+1For those who brave the cooler waters, snorkeling in Tagus Cove is an unforgettable experience. Wetsuits are highly recommended, as the water temperature can be surprisingly chilly, even in December. The underwater world teems with life, including playful Galapagos penguins, graceful sea turtles, and a vibrant array of fish and corals. It’s a chance to swim alongside some of the most iconic Galapagos wildlife.
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