ESPIRITU SANTO ISLAND

Espiritu Santo Island is located north of La Paz bay.  It is a Protected Natural Area declared World Heritage by the UNESCO, well known for its natural wealth, where it is possible to scuba dive in company of seal lions, kayaking around the island or camping under the stars; an experience not to be missed along Ruta 1.

In the year of 1534, during an expedition through the peninsula, Hernan Cortes, named the Espiritu Santo Island, the Island of the Pearls due to the large population of oysters that could be found in this place. It was in 1631 when the pearl collectors Francisco de Ortega and Juan de Iturbide, rebaptised the island with the name of Espiritu Santo.  Today one can still see what is left of the mother pearl breeding grounds, which ran operations until 1910.

At some point Espiritu Santo Island was inhabited, however today it is mostly a natural refuge for scuba diving, game fishing and nature lovers.  The contrast between the desert and the sea, the rocky formations of volcanic origin and the flora and wildlife variety captivate every visitor.

The Espiritu Santo Island is home and perfect habitat for animal species like the red tail falcon, the royal heron, the black hare, cats, sea lions and seals.  32 species of reptiles have been recorded, 98 species of birds, several of marine mammals and 16 endemic species. 

It is possible to hire the services from a number of authorized tour operators to practice several activities in and around the island.  They will provide all visitors with a bracelet required to enter this Natural Protected Area.  All tours to the island depart from the different marinas or the Muelle Fiscal (Tourist Dock) in the city of La Paz, and the vessels varied between very simple barges, to large yachts.

Amongst the variety of experiences this wonderful destination offers, there are snorkeling, scuba diving, hiking on authorized trails, camping under the stars or kayak tours.  It is also possible to visit archeological sites built by the Pericu indigenous people.

The little islands near Espíritu Santo, Ballena, Gallina and Gallos, are ideal for scuba diving.