Best hotels in Isla Isabela

Shaped like a seahorse swimming through the Pacific, Isla Isabela is the largest in the Galapagos archipelago. It was created a million years ago when six shield volcanoes became one island and has barely changed since. Scalesia is the only lodge outside the island's main town of Puerto Villamil, where it sits sheltered by acres of forested hills and fruit trees. Your base - when you're not soaking in the hot tub - will be a safari-style tent, surrounded by gardens of papayas and bananas. And out about? Whether it's discovering hidden pirate coves or kayaking past sea lions as they bask in the sun, the Galapagos Islands never disappoint...

One of the finest vessels on the Galapagos' shores, Isabela II is a sleek, shiny and very luxurious motor yacht. Sailing at a pleasant 10 knots, she offers the amenities of a small cruise ship merged with the exclusivity of a yacht - and it's this small size that will allow you to easily reach the top snorkelling spots. Exploring by yacht is one of the best ways to experience the Enchanted Isles without barriers and Isabela offers two, five and seven-day cruises, which could have you gazing at vermillion frigatebirds and blue-footed boobies, watching sea lions and fur seals romp in the water, or kayaking to secluded beaches.

The hotel's charm lies in its name, which was chosen based on its proximity to the route the marine iguanas use to cross from the wetlands to the beach every day. And from Iguana Crossing, you'll have a full view of the ritual, whether it's from the pool, your private balcony or strolling along the white-sand beach. It's this sort of close-up encounter with nature that makes Isla Isabela so special; it holds about 69% of the flora and fauna that inhabits the Galapagos. Iguana Crossing also occupies one of the least populated locations on the island, so you'll never have to worry about crowds.

Located in the heart of the Galápagos, Hotel Boutique La Casa de Marita allows its guests to be completely immersed by nature and experience breathtaking views of the coast.