Isla Isabel, a Sanctuary in Riviera Nayarit

This is Isla Isabel, a Sanctuary in Riviera Nayarit devoted to environment preservation, located 28 kilometers away from San Blas shore, and 61.5 kilometers from Islas Marias, was created by underwater volcanic activity, it is a National Park and Biosphere reserve, this hilly island features dramatic rugged cliffs and breathtaking panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. 

Isla Isabel is home to several birds, noted for rare and beautiful birds that flock to this natural sanctuary which protects them from predators that would otherwise be a threat to their species, also you can find coral reef in the sourroundings. Isla Isabel is one of the world’s best kept secrets by the diving community. Yellowtail, manta rays, humpback whales, whale sharks, turtles and beautiful coral await the recreational diver looking for a gorgeous dive in a natural paradise. Coral reefs are not common in this area of the world, making Isla Isabel even more unique. 

In 1980 was declared Natural Park, and in 2000 was protected an environmet reserve. First register for a person steping into the Island is dated 1836, on the name of captain Abel Aubert Dupetit Thouars (3 August 1793 – 16 March 1864), who was a French naval officer important in France’s anexation of French Polynesia. His visit to Isla Isabel is related on his book of memories Circumnavigation around the World on La Venus. Nowadays can be visited under special permission, often requested and granted to birdwatching expeditions.

Due to the delicate balance of nature, visitors are limited to very short stays, normally only a handful of days. Similar to the world-renown Galapagos Islands, eco-tourists will find rare nesting birds such as the Red Footed and Blue Footed Boobies. Many species of birds on the island rely on Isla Isabel as their sole breeding ground, making it a pivotal resource in the natural life cycle of the region. Because they do not often interact with humans, the birds of this island are unafraid of them which results in the rare ability for birding up close.

Uninhabited and undeveloped, Isla Isabel is strictly for eco-tourists who value roughing it in the name of a pure experience with nature. Those who wish to stay overnight should be prepared to sleep in tents and adventure companies such as Nayarit Adventures can provide itineraries including supplies and transportation to facilitate this immersive experience.