Half Day Tour Churute Mangroves and Bird Watching from Guayaquil
Active
5h - 6h
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
Just 1.5 hours from Guayaquil, the Churute Ecological Reserve offers a complete immersion into a unique natural environment. On this 6-hour tour, you’ll explore a 55,000-hectare forest, home to fascinating species such as howler monkeys, pink spoonbill herons, ospreys, kingfishers, pelicans, and many other exotic birds.
Enjoy a relaxing canoe ride through the serene Churute Estuary, observing wildlife in its natural habitat, either with binoculars or by the naked eye.
Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to savor delicious Ecuadorian cuisine and learn about local traditions related to agriculture and fishing.
Live a memorable experience during your visit to Guayaquil.
Available options
Last minute Price
Nature & Culture Private Tour: Private tour with an expert guide in nature and local traditions.
<br/>Canoe Ride & Forest Hike : Canoe ride through the Ulpiano estuary and walk along the El Aullador trail.
<br/>Duration: 8 hours<br/>Traditional Ecuadorian lunch : Traditional Ecuadorian lunch included depending on package.
<br/>Churute Ecological Reserve: Guayaquil → Mangroves & Ulpiano estuary → Pancho Diablo Hill → El Aullador trail.
<br/>Private AC Vehicle: Transport from Guayaquil.
<br/>Wildlife & Birdwatching: Herons, osprey, cormorants, kingfishers, storks, monkeys; possible crocodiles; bilingual guide.
<br/>Pickup included
Anticipada/Early bird
Nature & Culture Private Tour : Private tour with an expert guide in nature and local traditions.<br/>Canoe & Jungle Walk: Canoe ride through the Ulpiano estuary and walk along the El Aullador trail.<br/>Duration: 7 hours<br/>Local Lunch : Traditional Food Tasting
Enjoy a tasting of typical Ecuadorian dishes prepared with local ingredient<br/>Wildlife & Birdwatching: Herons, osprey, cormorants, kingfishers, storks, monkeys; possible crocodiles; bilingual guide<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
CANOE TO NAVIGATE
Bottled water
Lunch
Snacks
Air-conditioned vehicle
Coffee and/or Tea
Local naturalist guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Embark on a 6-hour tour from Guayaquil to discover the magic of the Churute Reserve. Explore its 55,000-hectare forest, home to howler monkeys, exotic birds, amphibians, reptiles, and diverse plants. Enjoy a relaxing canoe ride through the Churute Estuary, spotting wildlife and listening to bird songs. Also, taste delicious Ecuadorian cuisine and connect with local traditions by interacting with people dedicated to agriculture and fishing. A transformative experience just 1.5 hours from Guayaquil.
What's not included
Tips
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
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Tripadvisor
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Important information
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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
Instant confirmation
