The beautiful and popular Caribbean island of Tortuga forms some parts of Haiti. The area of the island is covered by 180 kmІ. The population, on the other hand, is made up of 22,080 people in 1982.

During the 17th century, Tortuga served as a major center for piracy in the Caribbean.

The tourist industry of the island was well-recognized all throughout Haiti especially because of the beautiful and natural flora and fauna found in this place. Tortuga is known in Spanish and French as Isla Tortuga, while its other English names are Turtle Island and Tortoise Island.

See also

• The island of Tortuga
• Tortuga today

In the 17th century, this place has become a hideout for pirates. These days, however, fishermen inhabit the island in order to maintain their livelihood. They fish and hunt for seaweed here.

The remarkable features of Tortuga are its long beaches which are covered with white sand and its numerous bays. Most of the South’s beautiful bays can be found in here. It is located 50 miles away from the Island of Margarita or in Spanish terms, Isla Margarita.

The caves of Tortuga bring forth sweet water. This is particularly rare for a Venezuelan Island. The place has served as a treasure island because explorers were able to dig up valuable items which many believe some prominent Spanish people hid in order to protect their wealth.

There aren’t many residents in here and only a few people were able to see the island. Fishermen dwell in here during the season of lobsters. They intend to do this so that they could watch their catches closely.

The beautiful landscape and lagoons that Tortuga has cannot be compared to what the other Caribbean areas have. Many tourists all over the world come to Tortuga to behold its natural beauty.