Port information & tips for Isla de la Plata
Often referred to as "Little Galápagos," Isla de la Plata is a pristine natural paradise within Ecuador's Machalilla National Park. The uninhabited island captivates visitors with its wild, unspoiled atmosphere and, thanks to its secluded location in the Pacific, provides a protected sanctuary for rare marine birds. Fascinating highlights include hikes to the nesting sites of the famous blue-footed boobies and magnificent frigatebirds, as well as spectacular whale watching in the surrounding waters. As the island is subject to strict nature conservation regulations, cruise ships anchor offshore. Guests are taken by tender boat directly to the natural beach of Bahía Drake, from where guided paths lead directly into the species-rich wilderness, while the mainland center of Puerto López is approximately 40 kilometers away.
Arrival & Departure
Getting around
Highlights & Districts
Useful tips
Returning to the ship
Isla de la Plata, often referred to as the "Galapagos for those on a budget," is a fascinating island off the coast of Ecuador and is best reached via the mainland port of Puerto López. Boat tours to the island, which is part of the protected Machalilla National Park, depart from there.
Airplane
For travelers from the DACH region, the route to Ecuador usually leads through international airports such as Guayaquil (GYE) or Quito (UIO). The closer international airport is Guayaquil (GYE), approximately 122 to 162 kilometers southeast of Puerto López. Alternatively, Manta Airport (MEC) offers an even closer option, around 68 to 85 kilometers north of Puerto López, with regular domestic connections.
Transfer & Shuttle
From Guayaquil Airport (GYE), you can reach Puerto López comfortably by private transfer in about 3 to 3.5 hours. From Manta Airport (MEC), the travel time by private transfer is shortened to around 1.5 to 2 hours. Numerous local providers offer comfortable and safe shuttle services that take you directly to your accommodation in Puerto López.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Due to the long journey from the DACH region and the early departure times of the boat tours to Isla de la Plata (often between 9:00 and 10:00 AM), an overnight stay in Puerto López on the previous day is strongly recommended. The charming coastal town offers a good selection of hotels and hostels, from where you can set off for your island adventure relaxed and well-prepared the next morning.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will usually receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for the journey to the port accordingly and take into account that the latest embarkation time - depending on the shipping company and destination area - is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the trip: for shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements as well as the notices on board, as mooring and departure times can change at short notice.
