Moreno Point

About the site

Moreno Point

Moreno Point, on the western shore of Isabela between the volcanoes of Sierra Negra and Cerro Azul, is a landscape of black lava dotted with surprising green oases. It is part of the western routes and one of the less visited sites of the Galápagos.

A dry landing on the lava leads to a trail across a vast field of pahoehoe, the smooth, ropy lava that twists and folds as it cools. Scattered across the rock are brackish lagoons, where fresh groundwater meets the sea, ringed by mangroves and grasses. They attract flamingos, white-cheeked pintail ducks, stilts, common gallinules and great blue herons. From the lava there are fine views of the volcanoes of Isabela.

Before or after the walk, a panga ride along the coast often finds Galápagos penguins, flightless cormorants and sea turtles, and some itineraries add snorkeling.

The trail is moderate: the lava is uneven, sharp in places and very hot in the sun, so sturdy shoes, a hat and water are essential.

Highlights

• Shore Birds
• Amazing Landscape