Nature has its own ways of surprising us, and one such wonder of nature is islets that are spread across wide seas. Among many of these awe-inspiring bodies arising from the surface of the seas, one is Roca Redonda. Roca Redonda islet is one of the several islets in the vicinity of Ecuador and forms a part of Galapagos Islands.
This rocky structure carved by nature is flat-topped and has steep sides. Though it seems like a rock, in fact, it is just a tip of a large underwater volcano. With its length around 100m and width 50m, the islet is famous for being one of the best diving sites.
The elevation of the islet is around 70 m at the maximum. Another aspect that fetches attention towards the islet is underwater fumaroles created by the steam rising from the bottom of the sea. Owing to the fact that it is a rocky islet with no civilization, just plenty of crevices and cliffs, it forms a perfect site for seabirds for the purpose of nesting.
The underwater fumaroles towards the southeast face of the islet are quite picturesque. One can witness bubbles created by steam rising to the surface of the water which makes one think that the volcano beneath the water surface might still be active.
How to Get Here?
There is a famous yet cliche saying that ‘where there is a will, there is a way’ which means if you are willing to end up at the islet, you will find a way. Well! If you are looking for a precise way to get to the islet, the following information is likely to answer your question:
- First, you need to get to Isabela Island. Explore the flights that can land you at Isabela Airport directly or some intermediate places from where you can catch a flight to this island.
- From Isabela Island, you will have to hire a boat that will help you get to Roca Redonda islet.
In addition to this, many cruises headed towards Darwin and Wolf Islands also visit this islet. For any other information, tourists can contact the Ecuador tourism department anytime.
Where to Stay?
Planning to spend some time on the islet? Well! You won’t find any motel service here which means you need to carry your own tent and other gear to look after yourself during the stay. Roca Redonda Islet is a rocky structure hence chances of coming across any sort of vegetation are negligible. As this islet is an uninhabited one, you will not be allowed to camp here as per the law of Galapagos.
Things to do in Roca Redonda Islet
The islet is famous for offering a breathtaking diving experience. It offers challenges due to its sudden changes in surges and currents. One should have experience of diving in strong currents along with surges as well as down currents. Divers get to measure the depth from 10 m to 35 m. Several underwater pinnacles that you get to dive make you bump into sea lions, surgeonfish, hammerheads, jacks, angelfishes, etc.
Diving here is for advanced levels of divers, hence it is recommended that you are a PADI certified diver before you attempt to dive here. And always remember to check your equipment and opt for the buddy system. Folks who have planned to pay a visit to this islet must be ready for encounters with Galapagos sharks. [Read more: Why you must scuba dive at least once in your life]
Costs Involved
The cost of getting to Isabella Island varies from your geographical location. You will be spending based upon the distance between you and the island. Once you reach the island, you will have to hire a boat, the price for which will vary greatly on the services you choose.
You don’t need to have any prior visa to visit Galapagos Islands. Upon your arrival in Ecuador, you will be issued a tourist visa for 90 days, under which you will be able to stay at Galapagos for only 60 days that too abiding by the rules and regulations of the authorities.
Galapagos is a great place to visit, and the underwater diving at Roca Redonda Islet serves like icing on the cake for divers. Makes sure you are well equipped before hitting this islet. Have happy times diving!
Read more: Other islands of Galapagos
