Howler Monkey Trail and Cacao Farm Experience from Guayaquil
Active
7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
We start at 8.00 a.m. with a convenient pickup from your hotel. Our first stop is a protected reserve, home to howler monkeys, colorful forest birds, amphibians, and reptiles, all set within a beautiful tropical dry forest.
Next, we visit a local cacao farm where chocolate is crafted right where the cacao grows. What makes this tour truly special is that you won’t just be an observer you’ll actively participate. You’ll learn the entire cacao process, from fresh fruit to chocolate bar, and get to taste a variety of cacao-based products along the way.
To complete this immersive experience, you’ll prepare a traditional Ecuadorian meal featuring cacao as the star ingredient in the appetizer, main course, dessert, and hot chocolate, each dish lovingly made by hand.
This tour uniquely connects nature, culture, and flavor in a personal, authentic, and educational way. It’s more than just a tour—it’s a full sensory journey to experience Ecuador at its heart.
Available options
Special Last Minute Offer
Visit to ecological reserve : Visit to ecological reserve and cacao farm.<br/>Duration: 7 hours: Private and personalized tour.
Duration
Approx. 7–8 hours.<br/>Traditional Ecuadorian lunch : Traditional Ecuadorian lunch featuring cacao in appetizer, main course, dessert, and hot chocolate.<br/>Special Last Minute Offer: Ecological reserve (howler monkeys, birds, reptiles) + cacao farm (process & tasting) + hands-on cooking class.<br/>Private vehicle .: Private vehicle with hotel pickup (Guayaquil).<br/>Pickup included
Howler Monkey Trail and Cacao Farm Experience from Guayaquil
Pickup included
What's included
Lunch
Snacks
Drinks
Hotel pickup
Transportation to/from attractions
Detailed itinerary
1
The Canoa Trail, located in Cerro Blanco Protected Forest in Guayaquil, Ecuador, offers a unique experience for nature lovers. Stretching 1.2 km, this low-to-medium difficulty trail features breathtaking views of natural landscapes, towering trees that create a refreshing climate, and a creek known as Canoa. It is ideal for families, children, and beginners in hiking. Along the trail, visitors may spot birds such as the green macaw and other endemic species, as well as tarantulas and, with some luck, howler monkeys in their natural habitat. The trail also includes an amphitheater, perfect for resting and enjoying outdoor activities.
2
The process begins in the greenhouse, where the finest Don Homero cacao plants are cultivated. Productive trees are carefully selected to germinate seeds, and after a month and a half, a graft is performed using high-quality branches. The young plants are then acclimated in the greenhouse before being transplanted. In the field, cacao is planted alongside plantains, which provide natural shade. After about a year and a half, the cacao trees begin producing fruit, while the plantains are gradually removed. Through sustainable agricultural practices like natural fertilization, irrigation control, annual pruning, and weed management, productivity is optimized. This process not only ensures premium-quality cacao but also creates stunning landscapes that visitors can explore while learning about the journey from cacao to chocolate.
3
This is not just a meal it’s a culinary journey where cacao takes center stage.
Discover the authentic flavors of Ecuadorian cuisine with a menu crafted to delight your senses:
Fish in a rich cacao sauce,
Ecuadorian,style ceviche with a special twist,
A savory cacao bolón to finish,
and a cup of handcrafted hot chocolate to complete the experience.
Every dish is made with fine national cacao, a key ingredient that tells the story of our culture and tradition.
Here, you won’t just taste the flavors you’ll also learn about the role of cacao in Ecuadorian gastronomy.
An unforgettable experience that blends taste, culture, and knowledge in every bite
What's not included
Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
Food and drinks
Lunch
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
2 reviews
5★
2
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.9
22 reviews
5★
20
4★
2
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Children must be accompanied by an adult
this activity is recommended for children of 16 years
About Guayaquil
Guayaquil is Ecuador's largest and most populous city, known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and strategic location along the Pacific coast. It serves as the country's main port and offers a mix of urban energy, colonial charm, and natural beauty with the nearby Pacific beaches and the Guayas River.
Top Attractions
Malecón 2000
A modern waterfront promenade along the Guayas River, featuring shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. It's a great place to enjoy the city's skyline and river views.
Architecture/Entertainment
2-3 hours
Free (some attractions may have fees)
Sembradores Park
A beautiful urban park with lush gardens, walking paths, and a lake. It's a perfect spot for a relaxing stroll or a picnic.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free
Santa Ana Hill
A historic neighborhood with colorful houses, cobblestone streets, and a hilltop church offering panoramic views of the city.
Historical/Architecture
1-2 hours
Free (church donation optional)
Guayaquil Zoo
A zoo housing a variety of animals, including jaguars, monkeys, and flamingos. It's a great place for families and animal lovers.
Nature
2-3 hours
$3-$5
Salado Beach
A popular beach located about 20 minutes from the city center, perfect for a relaxing day by the sea.
Beach
Half-day to full day
Free (rentals and facilities may have fees)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Ceviche
A dish made with fresh raw fish cured in fresh citrus juices, typically lime, and spiced with ají or chili peppers. It's often served with side dishes such as sweet plantain, popcorn, or boiled corn on the cob.
Appetizer
Contains seafood, gluten-free if prepared without soy sauce
Encebollado
A hearty soup made with flaked albacore fish, yuca, onions, tomatoes, and cilantro. It's a popular hangover cure and comfort food in Ecuador.
Soup
Contains seafood, gluten-free
Arroz con Mariscos
A flavorful rice dish cooked with a variety of seafood, including shrimp, squid, and mussels. It's a staple of coastal Ecuadorian cuisine.
Main course
Contains seafood, gluten-free
Humitas
A traditional dish made from fresh corn mixed with butter, eggs, and sometimes cheese, wrapped in corn husks and steamed. It's a popular snack or side dish.
Side dish
Vegetarian, gluten-free
Popular Activities
Surfing
Snorkeling
Hiking
Wildlife watching
Beachcombing
Sunbathing
Spa treatments
Yoga
Best Time to Visit
June to November (Dry season)
This is the best time to visit Guayaquil with pleasant weather, less rain, and ideal conditions for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
22-32°C
72-90°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English (limited)
- English: Limited
Currency
United States Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Ecuador Time (ECT, UTC-5)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
Guayaquil is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas and tourist spots. Be cautious of your surroundings and take common-sense precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas
- • Use common sense and trust your instincts. If something feels off, remove yourself from the situation
- • Avoid walking alone at night, especially in less populated or poorly lit areas
Getting there
By air
- José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport • 5 km (3 miles) from city center
By bus
Terminal Terrestre de Guayaquil
Getting around
Public transport
The Metrobus system is efficient and covers most of the city. It's affordable and widely used by locals and tourists alike.
Taxis
Available • Apps: InDriver, Cabify
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown (Centro Histórico)
Urdesa
Samborondón
Day trips
Puerto López and Machalilla National Park
200 km (124 miles) from Guayaquil • Full day to overnight
Puerto López is a charming coastal town and the gateway to Machalilla National Park, which offers beautiful beaches, lush forests, and diverse wildlife.
Balcázar
100 km (62 miles) from Guayaquil • Half day to full day
Balcázar is a small town known for its historic church and traditional crafts. It's a great place to experience authentic Ecuadorian culture and enjoy local cuisine.
Santa Elena Peninsula
120 km (75 miles) from Guayaquil • Full day to overnight
The Santa Elena Peninsula offers stunning beaches, clear waters, and a variety of outdoor activities. It's a popular destination for relaxation and adventure.
Festivals
Guayaquil International Fair (Feria Internacional de Guayaquil) • October
Carnaval de Guayaquil • February/March (before Lent)
Fiestas de Guayaquil (Guayaquil Festivities) • July
Pro tips
- Visit the Malecón 2000 waterfront promenade for stunning views of the Guayas River and the city skyline
- Explore the Santa Ana Hill neighborhood for a glimpse into the city's colonial past and panoramic views
- Try local street food from vendors along the Malecón 2000 and in the Mercado del Arte
- Take a day trip to the Santa Elena Peninsula for beautiful beaches and outdoor activities
- Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to help you communicate and connect with locals
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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