Safari to Isla Daphne Major

particularly good for boobies

Set just a few kilometres offshore from both the main airport on Isla Baltra and the central Isla Santa Cruz, Isla Daphne Major is very accessible, with the vast majority of live-aboard boats passing close by at some point.

Area : 1 sq km / 0.5 sq mi
Location : 6 km northwest of Seymour Airport
Activities : walking
Highlights : bird-watching

The island is a classic volcanic cone, rising to around 100 m (330’) and with a substantial but inactive crater at the top.

Although the landing here can be a bit tricky in a swell and the place is not that scenic or diverse, Isla Daphne Major is sometimes included in cruise itineraries in order to fill half a morning, before heading back to the main airport on Isla Baltra.

There are some interesting birds, notably blue-footed boobies (which nest inside the craters) and masked boobies (which nest on the flanks of the cones).

There is also an on-going research program with the local finches, which is why you may see some birds with leg bands.

If you specifically want to include Isla Daphne Major in your trip, then do let us know and we will make sure that you get onto the best and most appropriate vessel.

The island is usually included in the following live-aboard cruise itineraries

features in a relatively small number of boat itineraries