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Lobos Island – Galapagos Islands
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April 11, 2019Lobos Island is a Galapagos visitor site not far from San Cristobal Island, and it is found about six miles (ten kilometers) north of this. It is a relatively flat island, with a lot of white sand, and it is a popular place to visit, even though it is not the most jaw-dropping spot on tour itineraries. The island is named after the sea lions that have made a home here, and it is unlikely that you will not see one of these creatures on your visit to Lobos Island. The island is tiny, and might be better thought of as an islet. Here we will cover everything you need to know about Lobos Island, including things to do, when to go and how to get there, the wildlife there and Insider recommendations for your visit.
Things to Do in Lobos Island
There are a number of different activities at Lobos Island. One of the main ones is that Lobos is considered a good spot for snorkeling in Galapagos, so it may well be worth your getting into the water here to have a peek below the surface. A real highlight which may happen if you are lucky on your visit to this spot, is that you might find sea lions playing with you in the water. They like to join in with the snorkeling! Diving is also possible here.
Aside from snorkeling at Lobos Island, there is also the opportunity to undertake a very short hike. The walk is no more than 0.6 miles (1 kilometer) long, and offers the chance to see more of the wildlife on the island.
Some trips to Lobos Island also include a dinghy ride, to see more of the wildlife on the rocks from the water. This can also provide a good opportunity to get some good photographs – but be sure to keep your camera safe from the water. In general, photography is a fun activity at Lobos, specially of the Island’s namesake, the sea lion.
Finally, don’t forget to spend some time here simply relaxing on the white sand beach. You are on vacation after all!
The landing at Lobos Island is dry and it is considered to be easy, or at the hardest, “moderate” to achieve.
How to visit Lobos Island
Lobos Island is most commonly visited on Galapagos cruises. However, it is also possible for those on a Galapagos land-based option staying in San Cristobal to visit this site. You can take a boat from the dock at Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, but you must be accompanied by a naturalist guide on your visit. It is just one hour to get to Lobos Island from Puerto Baquerizo Moreno.
Best time to Go to Lobos Island
Any time of year is good for a visit to Lobos Island, and the wildlife here is present all year around. The good thing about a trip here, from a snorkeling perspective is that waters running between San Cristobal and Lobos Island are generally rather calm. That said, the currents will be stronger in the cooler, drier season, which runs from June to November. You might prefer to snorkel with a wetsuit during these months. On the bright side, the water is even more packed with wildlife that during the warmer season, as the Humboldt Current brings more nutrition to Lobos Island at this time. However, there are definite benefits to visiting in the warmer season, and enjoying a warmer snorkeling experience.
Wildlife in Lobos Island
One of the most unforgettable aspects of a visit to Los Lobos Island is the chance to see so many sea lions. They are generally plentiful here, whether on the land relaxing, or in the water enjoying a swim with you. Also in the water are rays and turtles, as well as tropical fish. Around the shoreline you might get to see the colorful Sally Lightfoot crab as well.
In terms of bird life, there are blue footed boobies and Nazca boobies residing on the island, as well as frigate birds to be seen. You may also see brown pelicans during your visit to Lobos Island Galapagos.
Insider Recommendations for your tour at Lobos Island
Our main Insider recommendation for a visit to Lobos Island is to try the snorkeling with sea lions if you can, but do steer clear of the larger males as these animals can be territorial and aggressive. Also, be sure to check your itinerary carefully as not all trips stop at Lobos Island. The site is part of San Cristobal Island, but even a visit to San Cristobal does not guarantee that Lobos is on the itinerary.
Why not contact us as we can make your trip planning easier. We can make sure that the itinerary you book stops at Lobos Island. This is because we are experts in Galapagos cruises and holidays, and we can assist you in finding your perfect Galapagos Islands tour – drop us a line or give us a call to learn more!
