Pearl Shell, Western Lowlands Travel Guide

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Discover Concha de la Perla in Puerto Villamil: a natural snorkeling lagoon teeming with sea lions, turtles, and unique Galapagos marine life.

Concha de la Perla, or Pearl Shell, is a stunning natural pool near Puerto Villamil on Isabela Island, Galapagos, offering exceptional snorkeling experiences. Sheltered by mangroves and volcanic rocks, its calm, clear waters teem with diverse marine life, easily accessible without a guide.

A brief summary to Pearl Shell

22QV+427, Puerto Villamil, EC

Monday 6 am-6 pm
Tuesday 6 am-6 pm
Wednesday 6 am-6 pm
Thursday 6 am-6 pm
Friday 6 am-6 pm
Saturday 6 am-6 pm
Sunday 6 am-6 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Pearl Shell.

Visit during low tide for the best visibility and calmest waters.
Bring your own snorkeling gear, as rentals are not available directly at the site.
Wear reef-safe sunscreen to protect the delicate marine environment.
Keep a safe distance from the animals and avoid feeding them to preserve their natural behaviors.

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Explore Pearl Shell on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Pearl Shell, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From the center of Puerto Villamil, head towards the main pier. Just before reaching the pier, you'll see a wooden boardwalk on the left. Follow this boardwalk for about 3 minutes (approximately 200 meters) through a mangrove forest, and it will lead you directly to Concha de la Perla. The walk from town to the boardwalk entrance is about 15-20 minutes.
Taxi

Taxis (usually pickup trucks) are readily available in Puerto Villamil. A short taxi ride from anywhere in town to the entrance of the Concha de la Perla boardwalk near the main pier costs approximately $1-2 per person. From there, follow the walking directions on the boardwalk to the lagoon.

Discover more about Pearl Shell

Concha de la Perla, aptly named Pearl Shell, is a must-visit snorkeling haven located a short distance from the heart of Puerto Villamil on Isabela Island, Galapagos. This serene, natural pool is shielded from ocean waves by a protective embrace of mangrove forests and intriguing volcanic rock formations, creating an ideal environment for a rich variety of marine species.Here, snorkelers can glide through crystal-clear waters, encountering playful sea lions, graceful sea turtles, and even the occasional Galapagos penguin. Marine iguanas are also frequent visitors, adding to the unique underwater spectacle. The lagoon's shallow depth and calm conditions make it perfect for families and snorkelers of all skill levels.Unlike many other snorkeling sites in the Galapagos National Park, Concha de la Perla can be explored independently, without the need for a guide. A short boardwalk from Puerto Villamil leads visitors through a mangrove forest directly to the lagoon. This accessibility allows for spontaneous visits and the freedom to explore at one's own pace. The best visibility is usually during low tide.Concha de la Perla is more than just a snorkeling spot; it's an immersive experience in the Galapagos' unique ecosystem. It provides an opportunity to witness the incredible biodiversity that makes these islands so special, all within a tranquil and easily accessible setting.