The island, of about 7 km2, is located off the southern coast of Manabí, from which it is separated by 45 km. Visitors can reach it by departing from Machalilla or Puerto Lopez, taking a boat trip that lasts no more than 2 hours. This port serves as the arrival point for the boats where visitors disembark on the island.
Isla de la Plata
With its coral reefs and average annual temperature of 20°C, this island is beloved by diving enthusiasts. Topographically, it has some high portions, lowlands, and 2 beach regions, called Playa Grande and Drake Bay, from which is the point where 2 roads of 3 and 5 kilometers that cross the arid ecosystems of the island depart. The coastal profile features stunning cliffs and rocks, offering scenic beauty. The tour duration ranges from 2 to 5 hours.
You can see nesting seabirds and others that accompany tourists. Isla de la Plata’s oceans teem with fish and marine life, making it a top destination for divers and snorkelers. Tourists mainly engage in these occupations at noon after touring the island. Moreover, expert guides accompany tourists on tours, taking this requirement seriously at the time of hiring. The boat ride can last 2 hours, so it’s advisable to book in advance to avoid the pressure of tour sellers seeking higher cos
Fauna
The observation of fauna is almost immediate; the blue-footed boobies often appear along the way, unfazed by human presence. You’ll enjoy watching them raise their legs in an improvised dance to attract partners. Male boobies, identified by their blue legs once they reach adulthood, are the ones that perform the intricate dance. They form pairs with older females and work together to protect their offspring. Capturing photos of these beautiful birds is easy; they seem to pose knowingly for the camera.
The ‘Red-legged’ route leads to the opposite end of the island, where visitors can observe nesting red-breasted frigate birds in the vegetation. If you are lucky, you will have the chance to watch the chicks, of singular beauty. Moreover, the landscape of the island is special, with birds perching on giant cacti, offering beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean. Additionally, the beaches of Puerto Cayo and San Jose allow for distant observation.
| Visit Us | Isla de la Plata | Our website