Panama Hat Maker, Artisan goods, Museum, Beachfront local Cuisine. SHORE TOUR
Active
5h - 6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Your in good hands. We are a British ex-pat family that has been living in Manta since 2009. We have 4 generations of family enjoying the sun, sea and sights. We strive to create a perfect day for our clients using our world travel and local experience to find the best tour attractions. We will go out of our way to make your time in Manta an amazing part of your trip.
This is a lovely light activity tour. You can walk as much or little as you like and all areas are wheel chair accessible.
We can do group or private tours on request and are very flexible if you would like to mix things up and have a custom tour. Feel free to check out our website or social media for more information.
Available options
Shared Cruise ship Group
Pickup included
PRIVATE TOUR - JUST FOR YOU
FLEXIBLE ACTIVITIES: We will tailor the day to your interests and energy levels<br/>Custom stops: If you want to see, buy or do something off the plan, our guide will help you get it done.<br/>PICK UP AND DROP OFF: We will pick you up from anywhere in Manta. The Cruise ship Port or Hotels are standard.<br/>Private sedan, SUV or Minibus: Apart from the guide, you will haave your own transport with a liscensed driver at you disposition throughout the tour.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Bottled water
All Fees and Taxes
Air-conditioned vehicle
Guide
Entradas a las atracciones
pequeño kit de emergencia
Detailed itinerary
1
Artisanal fishing market, here you can see the different types of fish that are offered in the Ecuadorian market, what meals you can cook with them, which are the most popular and their prices.
We will also take a tour right next to where the artisan boats are built.
2
As an optional stop we can go to a cocoa store, you can try different products made from cocoa, as well as being able to shop for other national products.
3
we will travel to the home of the famous Panama Hats, Montecristi. Sheltered at the feet of the Mountain is the town that birthed these sombreros many generations ago. It is was also the Home and Mausoleum of the countries most celebrated President. We will learn of his colourful life filled with revolution, intrigue and very dramatic demise. Your expert guide will take you through the Museum, Mausoleum as well as some of the local artisan exhibitions, before having the option to walk down the wooden deck promenade into the town center or ride down on the bus.
Once in the small town center, your guide will show you the Panama hat makers workshops and stores as well as a huge variety of local artisan goods. We can also see some of the last examples of traditional wooden architecture in the central plaza next to the cathedral.
4
We will show you how the famous Panama Hat is made, wrongly called that way because it actually originates from here.
You can buy a hat and souvenirs from here Ecuador.
5
Stop 5
For lunch we will go to a restaurant in the middle of the Pacoche rainforest, you can walk in the garden while you wait for your food or if you prefer you can wait in a hammock
6
We will make a stop at the San Lorenzo Lighthouse, which offers us a beautiful view of the ocean.
San Lorenzo beach is well known for being the nesting place for sea turtles, which instinctively always return to the same beach where they were born to nest.
What's not included
Lunch
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
FR
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
3 reviews
5★
3
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.9
19 reviews
5★
18
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Specialized infant seats are available
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Manta
Manta is a vibrant coastal city in Ecuador known for its beautiful beaches, rich maritime culture, and fresh seafood. It's a popular destination for both domestic and international travelers seeking sun, surf, and authentic Ecuadorian experiences.
Top Attractions
Playa del Medio
A popular beach in the heart of Manta, known for its golden sand and clear waters. It's a hub for water sports, dining, and nightlife.
Beach
Half day to full day
Free
Manta's Malecón (Boardwalk)
A scenic waterfront promenade stretching along the coast, lined with shops, restaurants, and historical monuments.
Historical/Architecture
1-2 hours
Free
Museo del Mar (Museum of the Sea)
A maritime museum showcasing the history of Manta's fishing industry, traditional boats, and sea creatures.
Museum
1-2 hours
Budget (around $2-3)
Isla de la Plata (Silver Island)
Known as the 'poor man's Galápagos,' this island offers hiking, wildlife spotting, and stunning coastal views.
Nature/Adventure
Full day
Moderate (around $50-70 including boat tour)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Ceviche
Fresh raw fish or seafood marinated in lime juice, mixed with onions, tomatoes, and cilantro. Served with plantain chips or popcorn.
Appetizer
Contains seafood and citrus. Can be made vegetarian with plant-based alternatives.
Encebollado
A hearty fish soup with yuca, onions, and cilantro. Often served with pickled onions and lime.
Soup
Contains seafood and citrus.
Seco de Pescado
A flavorful fish stew cooked with tomatoes, onions, and spices. Served with rice and plantains.
Main Course
Contains seafood and tomatoes.
Arroz con Mariscos
A seafood rice dish cooked with shrimp, squid, and clams, flavored with spices and vegetables.
Main Course
Contains seafood and shellfish.
Popular Activities
Surfing
Jet-skiing
Boat tours to Isla de la Plata
Beach lounging
Spa treatments
Sunset walks along the Malecón
Visiting local markets and museums
Exploring historical sites and churches
Best Time to Visit
December to April
This is the dry season with plenty of sunshine and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for beach activities and outdoor exploration.
25-32°C
77-90°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English (limited)
- English: Limited
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
ECT (Ecuador Time, GMT-5)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
Manta is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Exercise caution, especially in crowded areas and at night.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit areas
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services
Getting there
By air
- Ecuador International Airport • 10 km from city center
By bus
Terminal Terrestre de Manta
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common and affordable way to get around Manta. Routes are numerous, but schedules and stops can be irregular.
Taxis
Available • Apps: InDriver, Cabify
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Centro (City Center)
Tarqui
San Mateo
Day trips
San Lorenzo
20 km from Manta • Half day
A small town with a rich history, known for its colonial architecture and local markets. Offers a glimpse into traditional Ecuadorian life.
Los Esteros
15 km from Manta • Full day
A protected area known for its mangrove forests, birdwatching, and eco-tours. Offers a unique opportunity to explore Ecuador's coastal ecosystems.
Montañita
30 km from Manta • Full day
A popular surf town known for its vibrant nightlife, beautiful beaches, and water sports. A great destination for young travelers and adventure seekers.
Festivals
Festival del Mar (Festival of the Sea) • July
Fiestas de Manta (Manta Festivities) • August
Pro tips
- Visit the Malecón (boardwalk) in the evening for stunning sunset views and fresh seafood.
- Try local street food like empanadas de viento (cheese-filled pastries) and hornado (roasted pork).
- Book a guided tour to Isla de la Plata for a unique wildlife and nature experience.
- Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your interactions with locals and improve your overall experience.
- Be cautious of petty theft and scams, especially in crowded areas and at night.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
