Los Tuneles Galapagos (Cabo Rosa Tunnels)
Ready to explore one of the most mind-blowing snorkeling spots in the Galapagos Islands? Say hello to Los Tuneles!
Just imagine crystalline waters, surreal volcanic tunnels, and a wildlife extravaganza that’s straight out of a NatGeo documentary.
With GO-PRO in hand, you’ll capture incredible videos swimming with reef sharks, sea lions, sea horses, and much more. That’s a lot of top ticks for any travel bucket list.
Keep reading for everything you need to know to visit Los Tuneles Galapagos. Grab your snorkel gear and let’s get this adventure started. Los Tuneles is calling your name!
Where Is Los Tuneles Galapagos?
Also known as Cabo Rosa Tunnels, Los Túneles Galapagos is located on the south coast of Isabela Island, the largest island in the archipelago.
From the bustling town of Puerto Villamil, Los Tuneles is just a 1-hour boat ride away.
Why Is Los Tuneles so Famous at Galapagos?
The fame of Los Tuneles has spread quickly by word of mouth among Galapagos travelers. It’s renowned as one of the very best snorkeling sites on the islands.
This protected maze of crystal-clear pools is home to some amazing marine creatures. Better still, Galapagos wildlife has little fear of humans, making an incredible up-close nature experience.
On top of that, Los Tuneles offers a fabulous, other-worldly landscape to explore. Picture a labyrinth of lava formations sculpted into natural arches, lava tunnels, and hidden underwater caves.
For many tourists, Los Tuneles ranks as one of the very top highlights of a Galapagos Islands Vacation.
How To Visit Los Tuneles at Galapagos?
There is only one way to visit Los Tuneles Galapagos, and that’s as part of an organized tour.
Los Tuneles Tour
Los Tuneles tours run 7 days a week, departing early in the morning, and often again close to midday. The departure point is Puerto Villamil, Isabela.
These trips last approximately 5 hours, including the 1-hour boat navigation each way.
Los Tuneles day tours typically include an English-speaking naturalist guide, return boat transport, lunch, and use of snorkeling gear. In the Galapagos cold season, you should also consider renting a wetsuit at extra cost.
In truth, the boats that offer these tours are quite small and basic, but they do get the job done. Just don’t expect any luxurious features on board.
Tours to Los Tuneles can either be booked in advance as part of a tour package, or in person at one of the local travel agencies on Isabela.
For island hoppers, a Los Tuneles snorkel tour can easily be included in your Galapagos land itinerary. Check out Happy Gringo’s popular 8-day Galapagos Explorer & 4-day Isabela Island Extension tours as examples.
Is it Possible to Visit Los Tuneles Alone, Without a Galapagos Tour Guide?
At the time of writing, a guided tour from Puerto Villamil is the only way to reach Los Túneles Galapagos.
It is not possible to visit Los Tuneles by yourself or as part of a Galapagos Cruise itinerary.
Things to Do at Los Tuneles Galapagos
Los Tuneles offers a variety of fun activities, both on land and in the water.
1. Los Tuneles Galapagos Snorkeling
The top adventure to enjoy at Los Tuneles is bucket-list snorkeling.
Just what is it that makes Los Tuneles such an amazing snorkeling site?
The calm, sheltered bays are the perfect spot for a great diversity of marine creatures. Los Tuneles is one of the best Galapagos sites to share the water with whitetip reef sharks – don’t worry they are very docile creatures. Also, look out for peaceful seahorses among the coral reefs.
Other common sightings at Los Tuneles include sea turtles, rays (golden, eagle, and manta), Galapagos sharks, sea lions, and colorful Galapagos fish. Lucky snorkelers may also catch a rare glimpse of a Galapagos Penguin torpedoing underwater.
Another plus for Los Tuneles is that the turquoise pools are protected from the open ocean, making for a relaxing time in the water. There is usually little current to fight against, and although water visibility is not always great, the wildlife is very close up to compensate!
2. Los Tuneles Land Visit
Visitors can also enjoy a short walk at Los Tuneles Cabo Rosa to explore the impressive landscape and lava features.
A trek above the tunnels gives a whole different perspective of the area, along with great views and photo opportunities.
Your bilingual tour guide can explain how the lava tunnels were formed, and show evidence of cactus plant colonization in this inhospitable volcanic environment.
Keep an eye on the water below you too, as it’s common to spot sea turtles coming up for air.
3. Los Tuneles Galapagos Bird Watching
Los Tuneles is also a nice spot for birders. Look out for Darwin’s Finches hopping between cactus spines, and Blue-Footed Boobies nesting close to the trail.
During the navigation to Los Tuneles, there is also a brief stop at Union Rock to look for Pelicans and Boobies.
4. Galapagos Whale Watching at Los Tuneles
During the summer months, from June to October, humpback whales are active in the Galapagos Marine Reserve. Dolphins are also sometimes spotted.
While Galapagos Whale Watching is not a principal activity of a tour to Los Tuneles, the captain will be on the lookout in case you catch a lucky sighting out to sea.
Practicalities For Visiting Los Tuneles Galapagos
- In general, marine life at Los Tuneles is more abundant and active from May to November/December (cool & dry season). During these months the water is colder, and richer in nutrients, attracting more wildlife. Wetsuits are recommended in this season to stay warm in the sea.
- From December through to April/May (warm & wet season), visitors won’t be disappointed either. There is always lots of underwater action at Los Tuneles, and the sea will be warmer for snorkeling.
- The calm waters at Los Tuneles are suitable for any level of snorkelers, from beginner to expert.
- Recommended items to bring along include trekking sandals or shoes, swimwear, towel, change of clothes, light jacket (it can be chilly on the boat ride), sun protection (sunglasses, hat, sunblock), water bottle, underwater camera/cellphone.
- Sea-sickness pills are also recommended as the boat navigation can be quite rocky.
Fun Facts About Los Túneles Galapagos
Why is it Called Los Tuneles?
Los Tuneles translates to English as “The Tunnels”.
The name comes from the network of lava tunnels and bridges, above and below the water.
These lava tunnels were formed millions of years ago. When in contact with water, lava flows solidify on the outside, while liquid lava continues to flow on the inside, leaving a hollowed-out tube or tunnel.
The rest is down to erosion by the elements over thousands of years. Powerful waves and strong winds have pounded against the rocks, forming the fascinating maze of lava formations we see today.
How Deep is the Water at Los Tuneles?
The water depth varies from about 2 to 10 meters (roughly 6 to 33 feet). In some areas, the water is even shallow enough to stand.
Why Are So Many Creatures Attracted to Los Tuneles?
Los Tuneles Galapagos is the ultimate hangout spot for a wide diversity of marine life. But, why is this particular area of Isabela so rich in wildlife?
- Shelter and Habitat: The intricate network of tunnels, arches, nooks, and crannies provide the perfect hiding spots and safe havens for marine creatures, protecting them from predators and strong currents.
- Rich Feeding Grounds: Algae, plankton, and other small organisms flourish here, providing a buffet for the marine creatures that feed on them.
- Breeding Grounds: Many marine species use Los Tuneles as a breeding and nursery area. These calm, protected waters are perfect for raising young.
- Healthy Coral and Marine Plants: The clear, clean waters and volcanic substrate at Los Tuneles provide an excellent environment for coral growth and marine plants. These form the foundation of the food chain and attract a variety of fish and other marine organisms.
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In conclusion, Los Tuneles Galapagos is a must-visit for snorkeling fans.
The marine life here is truly world-class, and one of the very best Galapagos snorkeling sites of the whole archipelago. Sharing the water with sea lions, reef sharks, rays, sea horses, and turtles makes for some epic ticks on any underwater bucket list.
Although Los Tuneles Isabela cannot be visited as part of a cruise itinerary, it’s easy to join a day tour from Puerto Villamil. Even better, include a visit to Los Tuneles as part of a Galapagos Land Tour itinerary.
