Puerto Villamil is a charming port town located on the Isabela Island of the Galapagos Islands in Ecuador. It offers stunning views of crystal clear waters and the pristine beaches with unique wildlife. Visitors can explore the nearby mangroves, hike up Sierra Negra volcano or spot giant tortoises in the wild. With its laid-back vibe and incredible scenery, Puerto Villamil is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts.
The harbor is popular with yachtsmen, for whom the village was a stopover on their way to the Marquesas Islands in Polynesia.
It is very quiet and deserted, but tourism is beginning to develop
The locals are engaged in farming and fishing.
Of the sights you can highlight the modern church Iglesia Cristo Salvador. You will be amazed by the architecture of the building itself, as well as beautiful murals depicting landscapes and animals of the island.
We recommend visiting the local market, which is located next to the church. Here you can buy souvenirs.
Be sure to take an excursion to Posa de los Flamingos, a lake where you can see flamingos and visit the turtle breeding center.
One of the most famous myths associated with the port of Puerto Villamil in Ecuador is the legend of La Tijereta. It is believed that long ago, on the island of Isabela, there lived a woman named Tijereta who was known for her beautiful singing voice. One day, a group of pirates arrived on the island and kidnapped Tijereta, taking her aboard their ship and sailing away.
As they sailed across the ocean, Tijereta began to sing a mournful song, hoping that someone would hear her and come to her rescue. Her song was so beautiful and haunting that it attracted the attention of a passing whale, who decided to help her.
The whale swam alongside the pirate ship and began to sing along with Tijereta, creating a powerful and magical duet. The pirates were so amazed by the sight that they decided to release Tijereta and let her go.
From that day on, Tijereta became known as the "Siren of Isabela" and her singing voice was said to have magical powers. Legend has it that if you visit the port of Puerto Villamil and listen carefully, you can still hear her beautiful voice echoing across the waves.