Manta

El Murciélago and Los Esteros: two wonderful beaches!

The beaches of Manta are truly spectacular! The urban beach of El Murciélago is located in one of the most elegant sectors in Manta, and it stretches along the scenic seafront where you will find more than 20 craft shops, restaurants and establishments for tourists. This beach is well-known among water sport lovers and it's the place where the Carnavales are held. But if you are looking for something more exclusive, the beach of Los Esteros is a place where you can relax while you watch the ships entering and leaving the port.

Adventure, fun and excitement!

Manta is the perfect place to try water sports such as surfing, windsurfing, kite surfing and snorkelling. You can take a walk down the Flavio Reyes Avenue, the place for you if you are looking for night entertainment. In this avenue you will find lots of restaurants, bars and karaoke.

The aphrodisiac and delicious flavours of Ecuador

The gastronomy in Manta is based on fresh products from the sea which are cooked right after they are caught. They are delicious! This mini-industry favours the local products and makes the most of them thanks to traditions and cultural tastes which make the delicacies of Manta the favourite dishes in the province of Manabí.

Archaeology and antiques at the Hojas Jaboncillo Archaeological and Cultural Site

The Cerro Jaboncillo archaeological site opened its doors in 2017 and is one of the places you must visit in Manta. It is located on a dry slope with views of the Pacific Ocean and it is both a museum and an active archaeological excavation. It is best-known for having one of the largest Ecuadorian collections of seats of power used by the Manteño civilization: stone seats carved in the shape of an U.

Pre-Columbian culture and history

In the heart of Manta you can find the Central Bank Museum which has an excellent collection of ancient pre-Columbian artefacts. This is a great place to learn the differences between the many cultures from the Ecuadorian Pacific coast, as well as to learn all about the importance of the Spondylus shell to the Ecuadorian trade and the theories behind the seats of power used by the Manteño civilization.

The loud howls of the howler monkeys

The Pacoche Reserve was founded in 2008 and it protects more than 5,000 hectares of dry coastal forest, a forest which is characterised by being an endangered habitat that stretches along the Ecuadorian Pacific coast. Hundreds of bird species live the reserve and it is a popular destination among bird watchers around the world. But what makes this place so characteristic, funny and moving are the howler monkeys, tiny locals which will be very curious and attentive during your visit.

Hotels in Manta

Experiences

Kite surfing at Santa Marianita beach

Also known as Bonita Beach, this beach is the best place to go kite surfing in Ecuador. This is because of the great width of the beach, which allows an excellent mobility for the kite, and also because of the perfect winds and the ideal height of its waves. If you have never tried this sport, don't worry! There are lots of schools where you can learn and you have plenty of space to practise.