Isla de la Plata, or "Silver Island" in Italian, is a small island located off the coast of the province of Manabí, Ecuador. The island is located within Machalilla National Park and is a popular tourist destination in Ecuador.Isla de la Plata is known for its rich biodiversity and wildlife. The island is inhabited by many species of seabirds, including the famous frigate birds, pelicans, oystercatchers, and petrels. In addition, the waters around the island are populated by whales, dolphins and sea turtles.The island is accessible only by tourist boats, which organize daily excursions from the adjacent fishing village of Puerto López. During the excursion, visitors can snorkel in the crystal-clear waters around the island, observe wildlife, and admire the beautiful reefs surrounding the island.In addition to its natural beauty, Isla de la Plata also has important historical and cultural significance. The island was so named by the Spanish because of the large quantities of silver said to be buried there. In addition, the island was an important stopping place for pirates in the 17th century, who took refuge on its beaches to repair their ships and hide their booty.In summary, Isla de la Plata is a major tourist attraction in the Manabí region and Ecuador, thanks to its natural beauty, rich wildlife, and cultural history. If you are a lover of nature and history, I recommend that you include Isla de la Plata in your list of things to see during your visit to Manta or other cities in the region.
