La Tortuga Island: Breathtaking Beauty in Venezuela

La Tortuga Island, located in the Caribbean Sea, is a wonderful destination with its magnificent beaches, turquoise waters and delightful days. It is not possible to say that a trip to Venezuela is complete without visiting this island. Therefore, add La Tortuga Island to your list of must-see places in Venezuela, where Angela Falls is located. (click to read the article about Angela Falls)

My journey started in Higuerote, a coastal city in Venezuela. After staying here for one night, I set off towards the port in the early hours of the morning (05:30). The streets were empty and dark. The sounds of music from some houses made the atmosphere even more unsettling. As a “gringo” as they call it, it was quite a brave move for me to be on the road at this hour with bags on my back.

I arrived at the port in about 10 minutes. When I arrived at the port, they checked my name on the list. Once they found my name on the list, they asked me for a 200 Bs fee for landing. After giving the money and taking the paper with 200 Bs written on it, I walked towards the boats. While I thought there would be no one at this hour of the morning, I was relieved to see a large group. I mingled with the crowd and started waiting for the tour boat that would take us to La Tortuga Island.

Transportation from Higuorete to La Tortuga Island is provided by boats and the journey takes about 3 hours. The journey in the open sea with these 10-person boats is quite difficult, sometimes bumpy, and sometimes scary. If you have a fear of water or are prone to seasickness, this journey might be challenging for you. However, despite these difficulties, the experience of spotting flying fish and, if you’re fortunate, encountering dolphins, will make the trip worthwhile.

The color of the water changing from gray to dark navy and then to turquoise blue is a sign that you are approaching the island. The whiteness that appears in the distance is the first image of the island’s white sand beach. The first thing you should do as soon as you get off the boat and set foot on the island is to find your tent and get rid of your belongings. In this way, you can swim in the sea to relieve the fatigue of the sea voyage.

I took these shots at Cayo Herradura on La Tortuga Island, where travelers camp just steps from the sea. With no hotels or infrastructure, it’s all about nature: the soft white sand, turquoise Caribbean waters, and swaying palm trees. Boats line the horizon, and beachgoers enjoy the calm surf. The handmade sign welcoming visitors to “Campamento Tortuga Xtremo” says it all — this is adventure and tranquility rolled into one unforgettable destination.

You’ll be staying in a tent on the island, as no buildings or facilities are permitted to help preserve its natural beauty. Since you’re part of a tour package, lunch and dinner are included. However, there’s an optional afternoon tour not covered by the package that I decided to join. For around 3,000 Bs, this tour takes you to a nearby island after a 30-minute boat ride, where you can swim, walk on the beach, and soak up the sun. The tour lasts about three hours, and I highly recommend it for a fun and enjoyable experience.”

I recommend that you make yourself a drink and watch the sunset after returning to the island. This is a time when you are away from all the problems on a completely different planet.

The next morning, you wake up early, take a final stroll along the beach, and enjoy one last swim in the sea before starting to prepare for your return after breakfast. I had planned a one-night stay, but if you have the time, I recommend staying for two nights, as one night doesn’t quite do justice to the island.

Here are a few suggestions that may be useful for your trip to La Tortuga Island.

• Don’t forget your sunscreen, swimsuit, flip-flops, sunglasses and hat.
• If you can, bring your drinks/beverages in a portable cooler bag.
• If you can, bring your drinks/beverages in a portable cooler bag.
• Try to sit on the left side of the boat when you come to the island by boat and on the right side when you return. This way, you can protect yourself against the sun.
• Always use your sunscreen during the day.
• Since toilet needs are met in the forest, have your hygiene supplies with you.
• Since there is no electricity at night, have a flashlight with you.
• Always keep your tent closed.
• You may encounter dolphins during your boat trip, so always have your camera ready.
• Do not go on boat trips with alcohol and a full stomach.