There’s something special about beginning a new year in a place that feels alive — warm breezes, coastal flavors, and the kind of genuine hospitality that stays with you long after you’ve sailed away. If your 2026 cruise brings you to Manta, you’re stepping into one of Ecuador’s most vibrant corners. This is a city where tradition and modern life blend effortlessly, where every stop tells a story, and where travelers often say, “I wish we had more time here.”
To help you make the most of your visit, here are seven experiences you can only have in Manta — curated by the Narwell Tours team that knows this region like home (because it is).
1. Wake Up With the Lively Manta Fish Market
There’s no better introduction to coastal Ecuador than the morning fish market. Fishermen return from the Pacific with tuna, dorado, and snapper, while pelicans and frigatebirds glide overhead waiting for their share. It’s lively, colorful, and wonderfully authentic — a glimpse into daily life that cruise passengers always remember.
2. Walk Through the Lush Trails of Pacoche Wildlife Refuge
Just minutes from the port, the landscape transforms into a green, misty forest filled with howler monkeys, tropical birds, and towering trees. The Pacoche refuge is peaceful, refreshing, and surprisingly accessible. A gentle walk here feels like stepping into another world.
3. Discover the Art of Panama Hat Weaving in Montecristi
Montecristi is the birthplace of the world‑famous “Panama Hat” (Ecuadorian Toquilla Straw Hat) — a craft passed down through generations. Watching artisans weave these hats by hand is mesmerizing. The patience, precision, and pride behind each piece make this experience deeply meaningful.
4. Taste Manabí’s Flavors — From Coastal Kitchens to Family Recipes
Manabí is known across Ecuador for its cuisine. Think fresh ceviche, roasted plantains, rich peanut sauces, and slow‑cooked seafood. Whether you’re trying a traditional “viche” soup or a simple plate of patacones, the flavors are warm, comforting, and unforgettable.
5. Visit the Historic Church and Viewpoints of Montecristi
Montecristi’s hilltop offers sweeping views of the coastline and the town below. It’s a peaceful place to pause, breathe, and take in the beauty of Manabí. Many travelers say this is where they truly feel the spirit of Ecuador.
6. Meet the People Who Bring Manta to Life
What makes Manta special isn’t just the scenery — it’s the people. Fishermen who’ve spent their lives at sea, artisans who learned their craft from their grandparents, cooks who know every local ingredient by heart. Their stories add depth to every tour.
7. Experience Manta Through the Eyes of a Local Guide
A great guide doesn’t just show you places — they connect you to them. Our Narwell guides share history, humor, personal stories, and small details you’d never find on your own. It’s the difference between “seeing” Manta and feeling Manta.
🌅 Why Start Your Year in Ecuador?
Because the best beginnings are simple, warm, and full of meaning. Manta offers all of that — plus the comfort, safety, and ease that cruise travelers appreciate. Whether you’re exploring for a few hours or planning a longer adventure, this region welcomes you like family.
If your 2026 cruise includes a stop in Manta, we’d love to show you the real Manabí — the flavors, the stories, and the moments you’ll carry with you long after the year has begun.
📍 Narwell Tours
Authentic. Local. Unforgettable.
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admin2018-06-27 18:07:262023-04-26 10:56:18Things to do in Manta: The Pacoche Forest
Cdla. Barbasquillo 130802
Manta – Ecuador
Phone: +593 995 376 249
