Isla de la Plata
The Poor Man’s Galapagos
Isla de la Plata and the surrounding pacific waters are a haven for all sorts of wildlife including birds, seals, turtles, assortments of fish and whales during parts of the year. The island is about 40 km off the coast of Ecuador. Puerto Lopez serves as its main gateway for tourism. It’s small and has no permanent residents aside from rotating park rangers. Most people visit as a more affordable alternative to The Galapagos because of the many wildlife species that can also be spotted here.
Best Tips
- Nearly all Isla de la Plata tours leave from Puerto Lopez (read guide here). Accessible only by tour unless you have your own boat sitting around. Booking in person the evening before will give you the best bargaining advantage. If you book from Montanita it will cost you a bit more to cover the travel expensive to Puerto Lopez.
- Tours start around $25-40 from Puerto Lopez. The cheaper the “less reputable” your agency probably will be. A good price point for a quality tour is $30.
- Do NOT pay a harbor tax! I had heard some stories of agencies adding additional fees for harbor taxes. This does not exist! There are English/Spanish signs at the loading pier which state there are no fee for usage. Don’t fall for this small scam.
- Visit during June to October to whale watch during your boat ride at no additional cost. This isn’t specifically geared towards following the whales but if you’re lucky you will spot a few. Our boat spotted 3 different small groups on our way to and from the island. It was my first time seeing a whale up close and believe me when I say it’s absolutely amazing.
- The boat ride can get a little choppy. If you’re prone to seasickness consider appropriate preparation medications.
Tours
- Exploramar (top pick) – this dive shop also offers whale watching and island tours. Their guides are knowledgeable and friendly. Tours are priced at $40. Bargaining skills may or may not drop the price to $31 depending on how convincing you are. Including lunch, snacks and water refills.
- Machalilla Tour – this is also a top pick among travelers for roughly the same price as the above.
Arriving to the shores was like a scene from the Jurassic Park movies
Whales!!!
Blue Footed Boobies
During their mating season the males do a funny dance with their feet to attract a mate
Momma & Baby
Frigatebird. They have a red membrane that they can puff up along their chest to attract mates during the season.
Afterthoughts
I loved Isla de la Plata! It was my favorite highlight of the Ecuadorian coast and one of my favorite highlights of Ecuador in general. In a country where travel costs a bit more respective to its neighbors this is an awesome memory that you can take with you at an affordable price. I couldn’t say if it’s worth going if you’ve already been to The Galapagos but for those opting out of the iconic islands Isla de la Plata it’s a must!
