Chao Island | La Libertad
Chao Island is a group of three islands located off the coast of the province of Viru in the department of La Libertad, Peru. The islands are formed by Chao Norte, Chao Centro and Chao Sur, and are located about 14 kilometers from the coast.
Biodiversity of the Chao Island in La Libertad
The Chao Islands, located off the coast of the department of La Libertad in Peru, are home to a rich biodiversity that makes them a place of great ecological interest. Below is a summary of the main groups of species that make up the biodiversity of Chao Island:
Birds:
The Chao Islands are an important nesting site for several seabirds, such as the chuita (Phalacrocorax gaimardi), Peruvian pelican (Pelecanus thagus), Peruvian swallow (Progne murphyi), storm tern (Oceanodroma tethys), and Peruvian booby (Sula variegata). In total, more than 30 bird species have been recorded on the islands.
Mammals:
The most representative group of mammals in the Chao Islands is the pinnipeds, with the presence of the fur seal (Otaria flavescens). Dolphins and whales have also been recorded in the waters surrounding the islands.
Fish:
The marine waters around the Chao Islands are home to a wide variety of fish, including species such as cachema (Istiophorus platypterus), cabrilla (Scorpaena agassizii) and coconut (Lutjanus colorado).
How to get to Chao Island?
- From Lima: Take a bus to Trujillo (approximately 8 hours) and then a collective to the town of Chao (1 hour). From there, you can hire a boat to reach the islands (30 minutes).
- From Trujillo: Take a collective to the town of Chao (1 hour) and then hire a boat to reach the islands (30 minutes).
What to do in Chao Island?
- Birdwatching: The Chao Islands are an important nesting site for various seabirds, making them a paradise for birdwatchers. Among the species that can be observed are the cormorant (Phalacrocorax gaimardi), the Peruvian pelican (Pelecanus thagus), the Peruvian swallow (Progne murphyi), the storm petrel (Oceanodroma tethys) and the Peruvian booby (Sula variegata).
- Diving and snorkeling: The crystal-clear waters around the islands are home to a wide variety of marine life, making them an ideal place for diving and snorkeling. You can see colorful fish, coral reefs, sea urchins, starfish and much more.
- Hiking: The islands offer several hiking trails that allow you to explore their landscapes and enjoy stunning ocean views.
- Relax on the beach: The Chao Islands have beautiful white sand beaches where you can sunbathe, swim and relax.
Additional information:
- Best time to visit: The best time to visit the Chao Islands is between the months of April and October, when the weather is dry and sunny.
- Where to stay: There are no hotels on the islands, but there are some basic accommodations available in the town of Chao.
- What to bring: It is important to bring sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, comfortable clothing, mosquito repellent and enough water.
Tips:
- It is important to respect the environment and not leave trash on the islands.
- It is recommended to hire a local guide to carry out activities on the islands.
- It is important to note that the Chao Islands are a protected natural area, so there are some restrictions on the activities that can be carried out.
