About the Port
Mosquera is a small, flat islet of coral sand and volcanic rock lying in the channel between Baltra and North Seymour in the Galápagos Islands. Lacking any permanent settlement, it serves as a gentle introduction to the archipelago for expedition ships arriving from Baltra's airstrip, its shallow turquoise shallows and quiet shoreline drawing sea lion colonies, marine iguanas, and shorebirds that show little fear of visitors.
Landings are typically wet, with small boats ferrying travelers directly onto the sand, as there is no pier or dock. The islet's flat terrain makes for an easy walk, and its position near other Galápagos highlights, including tortoise reserves on nearby islands, makes it a popular first or last stop on multi-day expedition itineraries through the archipelago.
Pavlus Recommendations
How our planners would spend a day in Mosquera.
Walk Among Sea Lion Colonies
Stroll the flat coral-sand shoreline where one of the archipelago's largest sea lion colonies lounges undisturbed; keep a respectful distance of a few feet as pups often approach on their own.
Snorkel the Shallow Channel
Slip into the calm turquoise water separating Baltra and North Seymour to swim alongside playful sea lions and reef fish; bring gear from the ship since there are no rental facilities on the islet.
Spot Marine Iguanas and Shorebirds
Look closely at the volcanic rock edges for marine iguanas basking in the sun and a scattering of shorebirds like sanderlings and herons, easy to observe up close on this uninhabited, low-key stop.
Cruise Lines That Call Here
Cruises That Visit Mosquera
| Departs | Cruise Line | Ship | Itinerary | Nights | From |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 26, 2026 | HX | MS Santa Cruz II | 8 | $6,652 | |
| Sep 9, 2026 | HX | MS Santa Cruz II | 8 | $6,843 | |
| Oct 21, 2026 | HX | MS Santa Cruz II | 8 | $7,224 | |
| Oct 30, 2026 | HX | MS Santa Cruz II | 13 | $11,374 | |
| Dec 16, 2026 | HX | MS Santa Cruz II | 8 | $7,754 |