Leaving Puerto López for the little Galapagos

Go to Isla de la Plata

Many of those who travel to Ecuador also make a trip to the Galapagos Islands. Set in the Pacific Ocean, they are the stuff of the dreams of many a traveller. Unfortunately, the cost of such a getaway forces some to give up their plans. Don't worry - there is an alternative solution. Nothing could be easier. Make a 4-hour journey by bus from Guayaquil to the town of Puerto López. From there, facing the immensity of the Pacific Ocean, you can get on a boat that will take you to Isla de la Plata in barely one and a half hours. You can organise the tour with one of the many agencies established in Puerto López. They all offer the same programme and approximately the same rates at around £30 a day. These prices are certainly a far cry from the prices charged for the Galapagos Islands. The ideal season to go there is between the months of June and October.

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David Debrincat

What to see there

In addition to vegetation that is very similar to that of the Galapagos Islands, a trip to Isla de la Plata offers the visitor the opportunity to observe the same fauna. Throughout the year you will see sea lions and dolphins. If you hope to see whales, it is best to come between June and September. 

Walking along one of the two marked trails of the island (the Machete or the Escalera) you will surely be lucky enough to come across sea lions and frigate birds. The Isla de la Plata is a paradise for birds. In addition to albatrosses and pelicans you will also be able to observe both red- and blue-footed boobies.. These latter are the stars of the show and are even the symbol of the Galapagos Islands. If you do not want to pay a fortune to go see them there, you can also find them here. As you leave, the day will be topped off with the additional joy of catching a glimpse of beautiful turtles.