• city tour manta montecristi

City Tour: Manta & Montecristi Highlights

Experience the Charm of Coastal Ecuador – A Tale of Two Cities

Location

Manta – Montecristi

Time

4.5 hours approx.

Timing is adaptable to travelers’ needs (Cruise ship schedules)

Difficulty

Easy

Pricing

From 55 USD per person

About this tour

With this city tour of Manta and Montecristi, discover the colorful culture, history, and daily life of Manta and Montecristi on this enlightening tour of two of Ecuador’s most inviting coastal towns. These neighboring cities each have a vibrant charm all their own.

In Manta, explore the lively streets and bustling fish market, where a cup of fresh-brewed Ecuadorian coffee offers the perfect start to your day. Then stroll the tranquil streets of picturesque Montecristi, dotted with lovely handicraft shops and a leafy central plaza where you can simply sit and enjoy the easygoing pace of life.

A knowledgeable local guide will share fascinating insights into the history and stories of Manta and Montecristi, two closely linked yet wonderfully unique communities. You’ll gain an insider’s perspective of life along this stretch of Ecuador’s coast and the natural attractions, cuisine, and tradition that shape the vibrant culture here.

What´s Included

  • All activities described
  • A cup of freshly grounded coffee or other preferred soft drink
  • Cruise Terminal / Hotel pick up and drop off (You would have to take the free shuttle bus to Cruise Terminal)
  • Professional Local Guide (Spanish, English speaking) prices may vary for French and German guiding
  • *Does not include gratuities

Cancellation policy

  • If you cancel at least 7 calendar days in advance, there is no cancellation fee
  • If you cancel between 3 and 6 calendar days in advance, you will be charged a 50% cancellation fee
  • If you cancel within 2 calendar days in advance, you will be charged a 100% cancellation fee
  • For cruise ship travelers: If the ship doesn´t dock due to inclement weather conditions, political matters, or covid-19 related reasons, there is no cancellation fee

The itinerary

Manta’s Fish Market & Boatyard

Embark on a journey to the captivating meeting point of Tarqui and Los Esteros beaches, where you’ll find one of the last remaining wooden fishing boat shipyards. Skilled carpenters continue the treasured tradition of crafting these majestic vessels by hand.

Experience the lively atmosphere of the bustling fish market, a vital contributor to the city’s economic growth since its inception.

Merry downtown streets

Experience the heartbeat of Manta on a walk through the city center from Monday to Friday. During the bustling work week, downtown streets come alive with colorful characters – from businessmen and women hurrying to work, to street food vendors chanting their products. Immerse yourself in local life as you take in Manta’s historic architecture, from typical coastal colonial-style buildings to narrow pedestrian alleys filled with history. Stop to watch old-timers playing dominoes in the park or listen to the shouts of shoe shiners offering their services. Cap off your morning walk at a traditional Patrimonial House, now preserved as an atmospheric coffee shop. Sink into a chair and enjoy a freshly ground regional blend while energizing for the second half of your Manta adventure.

Montecristi the handicraft’s town

Immerse yourself in the sights and stories of Montecristi as you stroll the colorful streets. Wander past the first school for women, witnessing how this coastal town has long championed progress. Linger in the main plaza, taking in the imposing church that anchors the city’s spiritual heart. Chat with locals sitting on their front porches who remember when life moved at a slower pace.

Panama Hat weaving exhibition

Cap your walking tour with a visit to a traditional Panama hat workshop that has kept an ancient craft alive. Speak with the artisans who preserve this UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, passed down through generations. Try on a hand-woven hat made using the same techniques perfected over a century ago. Take home a piece of Montecristi’s cultural legacy – a perfectly shaped Panama hat, a reminder of your memorable day in this coastal town full of history, culture, and warmth.

Do you need more information?

We can adapt this itinerary to your needs. Contact us!

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Cdla. Barbasquillo 130802
Manta – Ecuador
Phone: +593 995 376 249

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