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Isla
Contoy
 Isla
Contoy is a small tropical paradise in the tranquil
turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea. It has been a
protected area since 1961 and was only recently designated
a National Park. The Island has almost completely conserved
its naturally state. It is only 5 miles long and nearly
660 feet at its widest part, but offers rich and varied
landscapes. While silky white beaches, dotted with tall
palm trees and other exotic plants border its Western
coast, the Eastern side, facing the open sea, is formed
from calcareous rocks. It is often exposed to strong
winds, so a small range of sand dunes has formed, and
these in turn are blanketed by low vegetation. Growing
here among other plants, is the sea lavander which emits
a sweet aroma, the sea grape and the orange cordia.
Inland, the lagoons, mangroves and low jungles are home
too 152 registered bird species that total more than
10,000 birds, an impresive number for such a small area.
 Marine
life is cleary visible beneath the crystal clean waters
of the Caribbean. A short distance from the island,
lies the Isalache Reef, which is home to a multitude
of species. These include the spiny lobster which is
much sought after for its high commercial value. In
Imaxpoit Bay, alongside the small wooden dock where
the tourist boats tie up, the manta rays swim fearlessly
among the tourists. Between May & August, three
species of sea turtles arrive at the beaches to lay
their eggs..
The Island
is rarely inhabited, and only by a few fishermen who
use the campsite during lobster fishing season. No more
than 200 visitors per day are permitted.
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