Manta Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do and see in Manta, Ecuador - from natural attractions to cultural landmarks, hiking and biking routes, local cuisine and more. Plan your trip with our week-long itinerary and transportation guide.


Introduction to Manta

Manta is a vibrant city located in the Manabí Province of Ecuador’s Coastal Lowlands. Known for its scenic beaches, rich history, and diverse culture, Manta attracts visitors from around the world. With year-round warm weather, delicious local cuisine, and numerous outdoor activities, it’s no wonder why Manta is one of Ecuador’s most popular tourist destinations.

List of Places to Visit in Manta

If you’re planning a trip to Manta, be sure to add these attractions to your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Museum of Manta: This museum showcases the region’s pre-Columbian history, with exhibits on local indigenous cultures, archeological artifacts, and more.
  • Eloy Alfaro House-Museum: Once home to Ecuador’s former president, this museum offers a glimpse into the life of Alfaro and the country’s political history.

Natural Attractions of Manta: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Murciélago Beach: Located just outside the city, this beach is known for its crystal-clear waters and soft sand. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, surfing, and a variety of water sports.
  • Isla de La Plata: This uninhabited island is perfect for nature lovers, with hiking trails that offer stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and unique wildlife, such as blue-footed boobies and giant sea turtles.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Manta

Manta offers a variety of hiking and biking trails for adventurous travelers:

  • Montecristi Trail: This 10-kilometer trail takes hikers through the countryside of Montecristi, known for its traditional Panama hats and agriculture.
  • San Lorenzo Trail: For a more challenging hike, the San Lorenzo Trail offers stunning views of the coastline and takes hikers through natural forests and steep inclines.

Best Things to Do in Manta: Activities and Tours

For a unique cultural experience, visitors can take a Machalilla National Park tour, which includes snorkeling, beach activities, and visits to nearby villages. Other popular activities include:

  • Whale Watching: From June to September, humpback whales migrate to the Ecuadorian coast, where visitors can observe them in their natural habitat.
  • Fishing Trips: With an abundance of fish in the surrounding waters, fishing trips are a popular activity for anglers of all levels.

Week-Long Itinerary for Manta

To make the most of your trip to Manta, we suggest following this week-long itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Museum of Manta and Eloy Alfaro House-Museum
2 Murciélago Beach and San Lorenzo Trail
3 Isla de La Plata and Machalilla National Park tour
4 Montecristi Trail and local cuisine tasting
5 Whale watching and fishing trip
6 Relaxation day at local spas and thermal baths
7 Souvenir shopping and cultural activities

Food and Drink Scene of Manta

Ecuadorian cuisine is known for its bold flavors and fresh seafood dishes. Some must-try dishes in Manta include:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ceviche: A popular seafood dish made with raw fish marinated in citrus juices and spices.
  • Encebollado: A hearty soup made with chunks of fish, yucca, and onions.
  • Arroz con Menestra y Carne Asada: Rice and lentils served with grilled beef.

Local Beverages

  • Naranjilla Juice: A refreshing drink made with the naranjilla fruit.
  • Canelazo: A traditional Ecuadorian drink made with cinnamon, sugar, and aguardiente (a type of liquor).

Where to Stay in Manta: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

From luxurious hotels to cozy guesthouses, Manta offers a range of accommodation options:

  • Hotel Oro Verde Manta: A high-end hotel located in the heart of the city.
  • Hostal Antares: A budget-friendly hostel with comfortable rooms and a friendly atmosphere.
  • Eco Lodge Pelicano: A rustic guesthouse surrounded by nature, perfect for eco-tourists.

What to Buy in Manta: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

For unique souvenirs, visitors can browse local markets, where they’ll find traditional crafts, handmade jewelry, and more. Some popular products include:

  • Panama hats: Made with natural fibers and crafted by local artisans, these hats are a staple of Ecuadorian culture.
  • Alpaca Wool Products: Warm and cozy, alpaca wool products such as sweaters, scarves, and blankets make for great gifts.

Local Culture and Customs of Manta

Manta is home to a diverse population of indigenous communities and mestizo (mixed-race) people. During your visit, it’s important to respect local customs and traditions, such as:

  • Dressing conservatively when visiting religious sites
  • Avoiding public displays of affection
  • Using basic Spanish phrases when communicating with locals

Best Time to Visit Manta

Manta has a tropical climate with high temperatures year-round. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from May to November. Visitors should note that June to September is whale-watching season.

Do’s and Don’ts of Manta

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Try local cuisine and drinks
  • Bargain at markets and street vendors

Don’t:

  • Wander alone at night
  • Leave your belongings unattended on the beach
  • Take photos of locals without permission

Safety and Health

Safety in Manta

Manta is generally safe for tourists but it’s recommended that visitors take precautions to ensure their safety, such as avoiding walking alone at night and keeping a close eye on their belongings.

Health in Manta

Visitors to Manta should be up to date on routine vaccinations, including measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine and flu shot. Travelers are also advised to take precautions against mosquito-borne illnesses such as dengue fever and Zika virus.

Getting to Manta: Transportation Options and Logistics

From Quito, the capital city of Ecuador, visitors can reach Manta by bus, car, or plane.

Airports Near Manta

  • Eloy Alfaro International Airport: Located just outside Manta, this airport offers domestic and international flights.

Bus Stations Near Manta

  • Terminal Terrestre de Manta: The main bus station in Manta, offering transportation to other cities in Ecuador.

Other Options

  • Taxis and private cars are readily available throughout the city for short trips

How to Get Around in Manta

To get around Manta, visitors can take public transportation, such as buses or taxis. Rental cars are also available for those wishing to explore the surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Manta: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have extra time in Manta, be sure to explore these nearby destinations:

  • Montañita: A popular beach town known for its surfing culture and vibrant nightlife.
  • Bahia de Caráquez: A quiet coastal town with a beautiful boardwalk and colonial architecture.

Conclusion

Manta offers a unique blend of culture, nature, and adventure that can be experienced year-round. From hiking and biking trails to whale watching and sunbathing on the beach, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant Ecuadorian city. Use this comprehensive travel guide to plan your perfect trip to Manta.