Isla Fuerte

The island is about three kilometres by one and a half, low and coral-based, sitting on a reef platform some eleven kilometres off the Cordoba coast with around a thousand residents living mainly from fishing. There are no cars - paths and bicycles only - no cash machine, and electricity has historically run on generators for part of the day, though solar has been added. The reef around it is in reasonable condition by Caribbean standards and there is snorkelling and diving off several sides, along with mangrove and a large old ceiba tree the community protects. Access is by open boat from the mainland and the crossing is rough in wind. Development pressure and land ownership disputes have been live issues on the island.

What you actually see

• A coral island about three kilometres long - with around a thousand residents.
• No cars, no bank, limited power - paths and bicycles only.
• Reef in reasonable condition - snorkelling and diving off several sides.
• Mangrove and an old protected ceiba - on the island itself.

When to go

December to April, the calmer season. Several days.

Honest expectations

Bring cash - there is no machine. The crossing is by open boat and rough in wind. Power and water are limited. Accommodation is simple and books out in holiday periods.

Nearby

San Bernardo del Viento is on the mainland; the San Bernardo islands are north.