Path of Octopuses, Floreana: The Scenic Coastal Trail You Can’t Miss

Discover volcanic landscapes, a hidden flamingo lagoon, and raw Galápagos beauty on this easy island hike

A short, windswept coastal walk on Floreana that threads volcanic rock, a tiny flamingo lagoon, and dramatic ocean views — the Path of Octopuses (Sendero de los pulpos) is a quiet, short, off‑the‑beaten‑track trail perfect for wildlife lovers and slow travelers.

Path of Octopuses, Floreana

Floreana’s Path of Octopuses (often called the Octopus route or Sendero de los Pulpos) is a short coastal trail that runs along volcanic terrain toward a small lagoon where flamingos sometimes gather. The walk combines sea breezes, black‑sand coves, and sculpted lava fields, and it’s one of the island’s most atmospheric ways to feel the Galapagos’ raw geology and marine life up close.

What you’ll see and why it’s special

• Volcanic coastline and lava formations that frame panoramic ocean views and tide pools.

• A small lagoon at the trail’s end where flamingos and shorebirds may be spotted during the right season.

• Iguanas camouflaged on the volcanic rocks.

Practical tips for the walk

• Bring water, snacks, sun protection (sunglasses, a cap, sunscreen), and insect repellent — services are minimal and the trail is exposed.
• Always take your trash with you, there are no trash bins available in this trail.
• Wear sturdy or hiking shoes for uneven lava rock and watch the tide if you plan to explore tide pools.
• As said before, the terrain might be uneven, so be careful when walking!
• Respect the at-least-2-meter distance from animals.
• Floreana is a small, close‑knit community with limited infrastructure (the island’s population is small), so plan logistics and supplies before you arrive.

How to fit it into your visit

Depending on how fast you hike, the Path of Octopuses could be completed in an hour or two, so it is ideal as a half‑day activity, combined with a visit to the Asilo de la Paz, La Loberia or The Black Beach.

In my case, I stayed 3 days and 2 nights at Floreana and fitted this walk into the second day of my visit, at noon. The day was cloudy then, even drizzling, so the sun and temperature were tolerable regardless the time of the day.

If your tour includes this walk, you have nothing to worry about; your guide will take care of the logistics, including taking you to the walk starting point. However, this hike can be done alone, since the path is well-marked, and there are a couple of informative signs throughout it.