Cocos Island – The mysterious island in the Pacific
Coconut Island protrudes from the Pacific Ocean as the peak of a lone volcano, far off the Costa Rican coast.
At the end of the 18th century, the English author Robert Louis Stevenson is said to have received the inspiration for his novel „Treasure Island“ here.
The tiny island comprises just 25 sqm² and is covered by an impenetrable jungle. Numerous streams, waterfalls and gorges epitomise the world‘s largest uninhabited rain forest island. Due to its isolation, unique flora and fauna have developed here. Today, as a national park and world natural heritage, the island is closely supervised by park rangers.
The outstanding underwater world surrounding the island abounds with marine fauna of every description. Hardly any other destination is as well-known for its countless large fish varieties, especially hammerhead, reef and offshore sharks. The film‘s author submerged to depths up to 400 meters on board the „Deep Sea“, a modern research submarine. During the dive, he succeeded in shooting material of rare deep sea fish and shark species, which have never before been sighted near Coconut Island.
What are some of the historical legends and stories associated with Cocos Island?
Cocos Island – The Mysterious Island in the Pacific
Cocos Island, also known as Isla del Coco, is a small island located in the Pacific Ocean, approximately 550 km off the coast of Costa Rica. It is one of the most mysterious islands in the world, thanks to its rich history, unique flora and fauna, and the numerous legends associated with the island.
The island is a part of the Cocos Island National Park, one of the most biodiverse regions in the world. It boasts a tropical rainforest ecosystem that is home to a large number of endemic species, including the Cocos Island finch, the Cocos Island green iguana, and the Cocos Island racer. The waters surrounding the island are equally rich in biodiversity, with over 30 species of sharks and large populations of sea turtles, dolphins, and whales.
Cocos Island has a long and fascinating history. It was first discovered by the Spanish navigator, Joan Cabezas, in 1526, but remained uninhabited until the 19th century. In the late 1800s, it became a popular spot for pirates and other seafarers, drawn to the island’s remote location and the abundant supply of fresh water.
One of the most famous legends associated with Cocos Island is the story of the mythical pirate, Captain William Kidd. Kidd was said to have buried a treasure worth millions of dollars on the island, and numerous expeditions have been launched over the centuries in search of the loot. To this day, the treasure remains undiscovered, adding to the island’s allure and mystery.
In addition to its historical and natural wonders, Cocos Island has become a popular destination for eco-tourism. Visitors can explore the island’s lush rainforests, dive in the pristine waters, and observe the unique wildlife. However, due to its remote location, the island’s ecosystem remains vulnerable to human impact, and strict conservation measures have been put in place to protect its delicate ecosystem.
Cocos Island is truly a unique and enigmatic destination. Its rich history, stunning landscape, and diverse wildlife make it a must-visit for anyone interested in adventure and discovery. Whether you are exploring the island’s underwater world or hiking through its dense rainforests, the island promises to be an unforgettable experience.