Genovesa Island

Genovesa (Tower Island) is an island in the northeastern Galápagos archipelago, known for its almost circular, low rim around a flooded caldera and concentrated seabird colonies. The island is a protected visitor site within the Galápagos National Park and is famous for birdlife.

Named Genovesa by the Ecuadorian government and informally called Tower Island in English, the island’s volcanic structure and wildlife have long been noted by naturalists since early scientific visits to the Galápagos. It has been managed as part of the national park system since the 20th century.

Situated on the northeastern rim of the Galápagos Islands, Genovesa lies off Ecuador’s Pacific coast within the protected archipelago and is visited by expedition cruise vessels operating in the Galápagos.

• Conservation and wildlife: Part of the Galápagos National Park with strict visitor limits and guided-landing protocols; the island is especially important for seabird colonies including red-footed boobies and frigatebirds.

What to See #

• Darwin Bay: A flooded volcanic caldera that forms a shallow bay with calm waters and sandy coves used for landings and short visitor walks. The bay opens onto a seabird-rich coastline where many species nest on the cliffs above.
• Prince Philip's Steps (landing and cliff trail): A steep sea-cliff access route of rough rock steps and pathways leading from the landing to a plateau with large seabird colonies and nesting ledges, used for guided landings and short trails.