Manta , Ecuador

Manta's highlights & Montecristi Hats

Active

(58 reviews)

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

Best prices, high quality! This tour will give you a sense of what locals experience everyday, you will learn about our education system, history, customs, culture, & cuisine.
You will learn how we build our fishing boats, fishermen may approach asking to take them with you on a picture posing and holding a big tuna while you visit the fish market; We will take you to one of the factories where we process "tagua" buttons, tons of these buttons get exported, so you might be wearing one right now, to complement this tour we will visit a chocolate bars factory, we will also show you how the Montecristi hats are woven, and how much work a weaver put into it, through a demonstration, in one of the artisan's shops, we will explain the process, right after, we will take you to the museum Ciudad Alfaro, which is full of art and history that you will be introduced to. On the way back, do not miss taking a picture of the weaving woman statue on the roundabout.

Available options

Manta's highlights & Montecristi

Pickup included

Language French and German

Extra fee : This prices apply to German and French guidance only<br/>Pickup included

What's included

All Fees and Taxes

Air-conditioned vehicle

Entries and plenty water bottled

Detailed itinerary

Firstly we will visit the fish market fish market, at this point we will learn how our fishermen bring the fish in to our cost and table, then we will visit the boat factory, were you will see some of the fishing boats being built.

Boatyard, where you will have the opportunity to see how the fishing boats are being built.

We will visit a Tagua Factory, where we will learn how the tagua nuts or the vegetable ivory is processed into pieces that will be carved into nice buttons or figures.

Hat weaving demonstration: We will witness an artisan weaving, ironing, shaping, and pressing a hat, we will tell you how a hat is made from the very beginning of the process.

We will visit, Ciudad Alfaro, a complex that was built in order to honor our ex president Eloy Alfaro, who regardless of being a wealthy man, he fought agains the inequality in 1895, and where we singned our last constitution in 2008.

Then we will visit a shop, where we will be shown how we weave the Montecristi hats, and you will have time to shop and look around downtown.

Chocolate factory. In this visit we will learn a little bit of high quality chocolate bars, an opportunity to taste the different products and bring some souvenirs with you.

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.3

31 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

27 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

In case you are bringing a wheelchair, you need to notify this to us, otherwise we won't be responsible of not being able to take you on the tour.

If you require a guide that speaks another language other than English or Spanish, you will have to choose the option "Other languages"

Meeting point

Inside the terminal, we will be next to the exit door or standing at the entrance door.
WI-FI available in the terminal.

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.