Isabela Island in the Galapagos archipelago is (for many travellers) a once in a lifetime destination. Accordingly, visitors hope to pair their stays with the perfect accommodation. Finding a place to stay is super exciting on Isabela Island. The island offers a range of accommodation options to suit any traveler’s needs. From eco-friendly lodges to luxury resorts with stunning views, Isabela caters to all kinds of travellers. In this article, we outline where to stay on Isabela Island and help you decide where to base yourself for a bucket-list adventure. 

Accommodation in Isabela Island

A stay in the Galapagos Islands doesn’t have to be the same for everyone. Some people enjoy rustic stays with awe-inspiring natural views, others enjoy cultural immersion and visits which centre around the town. Regardless of what it is that you enjoy, you’ll find a place to stay on Isabela Island that ticks all of your boxes.

In fact, despite their reputation, the Galapagos Islands aren’t hugely expensive to visit, and they cater to those on all budgets. In particular, those visitors choosing to plan an independent trip without a tour will not only enjoy cheaper prices, but they will revel in the choice of available accommodation.

Where to stay on Isabela Island Galapagos

Known for its beautiful ecolodges, boutiquey seaside hotels, five star properties and even hostels, Isabela Island is a hidden and gem and one you shouldn’t miss. Read on for some helpful information regarding where to stay on Isabela Island Galapagos.

In the town

When considering where to stay on Isabela Island Galapagos, it’s likely that you’ll lean towards a stay in Puerto Villamil. And that’s no surprise. Without a doubt, almost all of the accommodation on Isabela Island is located here. This is not only where your boat will arrive following your journey from other islands, but it’s where most of the restaurants, bars, shops and many activities are located.

In Puerto Villamil, you will find a great deal of accommodation options. A couple of hostels are located here for those backpackers seeking budget options and the company of friendly strangers. If you’re looking for cheap rooms, you’ll be able to find options for $35+ per night.

Searching for something a little more comfortable? Puerto Villamil is also home to some hotels which provide their guests with higher levels of comfort. A few boutique and 3-star hotels – some with pools and/or beachfront access – are scattered throughout the town. Visitors can expect to pay anything from $120+ per night for this kind of option.

In addition to these options, a handful of hotels offering a heightened luxury experience are located in Puerto Villamil. Guests can expect to pay upwards of $250 per night at these properties.

Remote

Outside of Puerto Villamil, there isn’t a great deal of accommodation available. However, there are a couple of options which are located somewhat remotely. Perfect for adventure seekers, these options don’t offer much in terms of local amenities, but they do provide a unique and immersive Galapagos experience.

It should be noted that due to its unfriendly volcanic terrain, Isabela Island is mostly uninhabited. Its population exists on only a small land area in and around the town. Accommodation outside of these bounds is located on the road up to Sierra Negra volcano. This is essentially the only road out of Puerto Villamil on the island. Hikers in particular will love this area thanks to its access to numerous hiking trails and stunning volcanic sites.

Accommodation options in this area include a guest ranch, a luxury hotel and a camp.

The best of both worlds

Looking for accommodation near the town? But also keen to experience the great Galapagos nature? Some options existing on the outside edge of Puerto Villamil offer guests less of a town vibe and instead the feeling that they’re immersed in the foliage of the island.

Chez Manany Galapagos Ecolodge is a gorgeous ecolodge located closer to Concha de Perla than Puerto Villamil. In fact, you’ll only have to walk 3 minutes to take a dip here, where you’ll share the water with playful sea lions and all kinds of fantastic marine life. Having said this, guests need only walk for 10 minutes to reach the friendly atmosphere of the town and its restaurants and bars.

Chez Manany is surrounded by garden features and offers its guests fully furnished apartments with plenty of light. Sustainability initiatives and a passion for the local environment shine through, with owners Manany and Wilson giving their best to protect Isabela Island at all costs. A vegetable garden, solar panels and strict use of bio products are all visible signs of the property’s care for the island.

To book your room at Chez Manany, click here.