Safari to Isla Rabida

is renowned for its red earth and flamingo lagoon

Isla Rábida is a small low-lying rocky island that lies 3 km (2 miles) south of the much larger Isla Santiago and rises to a maximum altitude of 367m (1204’).

Area : 5 sq km / 2 sq mi
Location : 40 km west of Seymour Airport

The island was named after the convent of Rábida in Spain, where navigator Christopher Columbus left his son during his voyage to the Americas. It was previously known as Jervis Island, in honour of the British admiral John Jervis.

In 1971 the National Park Service successfully eradicated goats from Rábida. This introduced species had upset the natural environment, leading to the extinction of several native creatures including geckos, land iguanas and rice rats.

During January 2011 invasive rodents were removed from the island, in order to provide protection to the endangered Galapagos penguins and scalesia trees.

The central location of Isla Rábida makes it a popular stop for live-aboard boats, although the lack of protected moorings can be a distinct disadvantage at times.

Landing site RA1 : Laguna Rábida
Activities : walking, bird-watching
Highlights : flamingos, finches, scalesia trees

Isla Rábida is renowned for its distinctive red colour, both the rocks and the beaches, which is derived from the high iron content in the underlying lava flows. The landscapes feature extensive outcrops of Galapagos lava cactus plants, as well as impressive patches of scalesia (daisy) forest.

On the northern fringe of the island, a saltwater lagoon lies above the ocean, surrounded by vegetation. On occasion flamingos can be found here (although they seem to be spending less time here in recent years).

More common sightings here include white-cheeked pintail ducks, brown pelicans and various boobies.

Nine different species of finches have been reported on this island.

Care should be taken not to disturb the birds at the lagoon, nor any sea lions which may be encountered on the beach.

If you specifically want to include Isla Rábida 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

usually included in more westerly boat itineraries