They call it the “Poor Man’s Galápagos,” but let’s be real — Isla de la Plata off the coast of Ecuador is way more than a budget-friendly substitute. Think blue-footed boobies strutting like they own the place, giant cliffs dropping into turquoise waters, and snorkel sessions where turtles and colorful fish swim right past you. If you’re staying in Puerto López, this is hands down one of the best day trips you can do.
Where is Isla de la Plata & how to get there
The island sits about 40 km off the coast of Manabí Province. To get there, you’ll need to hop on a boat from Puerto López — the ride takes about 90 minutes. Most travelers book day tours with local agencies like Palo Santo Travel. Prices hover around $40–$50 per person, which includes your guides, the hike, and snorkel gear. Pretty sweet deal considering what you get.
The hike: cliffs, birds & epic views
Once you land, it’s time to hike. Trails are well-marked but expect a moderate climb — I had to stop twice just to catch my breath. Along the way, you’ll see thousands of birds nesting, from frigatebirds to the iconic blue-footed boobies (yep, the same ones from the Galápagos). The cliffs and lookouts are insane — like straight out of a nature doc.
Local guides make the walk even better. One gives you safety tips in perfect English and Spanish, the other drops knowledge bombs about history, ecology, and geology. Honestly, the vibe is like walking with two encyclopedias that crack jokes.
Snorkeling: turtles, fish & underwater magic
After the hike, it’s time to cool off. The boat takes you to a snorkeling spot where the water’s packed with marine life. We swam with tropical fish, spotted sea turtles cruising by, and saw flashes of bright coral under the waves. It’s not Galápagos-level crazy, but for the price tag, it’s unforgettable.
What to pack & tips
- Bring water and snacks — it gets hot on the trails.
- Wear good shoes (not just flip-flops, the hike is uphill).
- Sunscreen and a hat are non-negotiable.
- Don’t forget your swimsuit and maybe a GoPro for the underwater show.
- Motion sickness pills if boat rides aren’t your thing — the sea can get bumpy.
Where to stay in Puerto López
Puerto López is a chill fishing town with solid accommodation options. You’ll find eco-lodges, hostels, and small boutique hotels right by the beach. Check out stays on Booking via Nosfui to score the best deals. Look for spots with hammocks and ocean views — you’ll thank me later.
If you want something quieter, nearby Machalilla offers more nature-focused stays. Again, compare options on Booking — filter by “eco-lodge” or “beachfront.”
Best time to visit
The island is open year-round, but the dry season (June to September) is perfect for hiking and spotting nesting seabirds. Bonus: if you visit between June and October, you can also catch humpback whales near Puerto López — double the adventure.
Why Isla de la Plata is worth it
This isn’t just a side trip — it’s the kind of place that surprises you. Birds everywhere, cliffs that look like movie backdrops, a sweaty but rewarding hike, and underwater encounters that stick with you. For $40, it’s one of the best travel deals in South America.
Your next trip starts at nosfui.com — don’t gatekeep this one 💬📍
