Find your way around the province
- Portoviejo
- Manta
- Puerto López
What to discover
Los Frailes and the Puerto López area introduce Machalilla’s landscapes. Arrange any marine outings separately with authorised operators.
Photo : Spring Travel · CC BY-SA 4.0
Heritage and traditions
Sal prieta, fish dishes and toquilla straw weaving connect food and craft. Take time to understand ingredients and the stages of weaving.
A suggested stay
Choose one base and explore nearby, adding a second stop if time allows. A beach day and a workshop visit call for different rhythms.
Plan this stop
Check site access and sea conditions. Whale watching is seasonal, and sightings cannot be guaranteed.
Places, celebrations and crafts
Hojas-Jaboncillo and Manteño heritage
Near Picoazá in Portoviejo canton, the Hojas-Jaboncillo archaeological complex reveals a side of Manabí beyond its beaches. The archaeological museum introduces the site and Manteño culture; enquire about open areas and available visits before exploring the remains.
Montecristi and Pile: the art of hat weaving
The toquilla straw hat embodies an Ecuadorian craft whose traditional weaving is recognised by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage. In Montecristi and Pile, seek a meeting with weavers to learn about the making process. The fineness of the weave and the finishing work help explain the craft behind each hat.
Festival and seasonal calendar →
Practical information
When to go
December to May is generally warmer and wetter on the coast; June to November is often drier and cooler, with overcast days possible. Conditions differ between the humid north and the southern coast.
What to book or arrange
For Isla de la Plata and whale watching, book an authorised operator and confirm sea conditions. The usual whale season runs from June to September.
Local food to try
Salprieta is a condiment made from toasted maize and peanuts. Also look for viche, a hearty soup combining peanuts, fish and local produce.