Price from
£131
Enjoy the privilege of visiting one of the most important bird sanctuaries in South America.
Know about the importance of the mangrove swamp, and the varieties of mangrove trees.
Admire the habitat of one of the largest frigate colonies in the South American Pacific and home to more than 50 species of birds.
Be part of this community based ecotourism project.
We depart the quayside and drive north to Bahía de Caráquez, where we board launches that will take us to Isla Corazón (Heart Island). The island is a mangrove forest refuge of 130 acres, a prime breeding ground for seabirds, principally frigate birds. Since 1998 the protection of the sanctuary is the responsibility of a community called Portovelo (Asomanglar).
This heart-shaped island (hence its name) is located a few kilometers upstream in the Río Chone estuary and is a must-see for nature-lovers and birdwatchers. The mangroves of the island are a prime breeding ground for seabirds, and the population of frigate birds is especially large. The opportunity to see these frigate birds on this island is even better that the Galapagos Islands due to the unique habits that this colony has formed.
Isla Corazón is part of an eco-tourism project, in which local fishermen have nurtured the mangroves and expanded the island. This has been done to prevent further eradication of the mangrove swamps to the industry of shrimp farming. This private initiative which was started by the local fisherman is now a protected area by the government, the island can be visited on a guided tour led by the local fishermen.
We return to the mainland to enjoy lunch at a Smart Voyager Certified venue, Casa Ceibo —an award given specifically for environmental and social responsibility initiatives.
After lunch, reboard the coach and drive back to the Port.
Practical information
Language: English, French and German.
Included: 1 x 500 ml bottle of water per person on the coach.
Remarks/requirements: It is recommended that guests wear lightweight clothing, including long pants and a long-sleeved shirt, along with sunblock, sunglasses, a hat, insect repellent (it is a must) and flat, comfortable trekking shoes (no sandals), binoculars (waterproof), dry bags and/or Ziploc bags, camera.
Guests should also bring along an umbrella and/or a waterproof jacket in case of inclement weather.
Walking information: 200 metres walk along paved & wooden path to/from Hotel and dock.
Wheelchair accessible: No.
