Manta

28 hand-picked places in 10 lists. Tick the categories you want to see on the map.

4 places on the map

Viewpoints

1
Hill viewpoint above Montecristi.
3 tips
- Go with a local guide
- Sunrise is lovely
- Wear sturdy shoes
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2
Seaside promenade with ocean views.
- Tip: At night
3 tips
- Best for an evening walk
- Cafes and food stalls nearby
- Bring a hat
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3
Lookout over the beach and cliffs at Santa Marianita south of Manta.
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4
Lookout over the coast at San Mateo west of the city.
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Fly in from Quito: Manta's airport has flights to Quito, the quickest way in; otherwise long-distance buses link Manta with Guayaquil and other cities.
Use registered taxis or apps: Take registered yellow taxis or ride apps and agree the fare first if there is no meter.
Day trip by bus: Local buses reach nearby towns like Montecristi and coastal villages cheaply; ask locals for the right stop and route.

Check current advice: Crime has risen along parts of Ecuador's coast; read up-to-date travel advice and ask your hotel which areas to avoid.
Keep valuables low-key: Avoid showing phones, jewellery or cash in public, and carry only what you need for the day.
Avoid walking at night: After dark, use a taxi instead of walking, especially in quiet streets and around the port.

Pay in US dollars: Ecuador uses the US dollar; carry small bills, as larger notes can be hard to change in small shops.
Eat almuerzos: Set lunches, or almuerzos, with soup, a main and juice are a filling, budget-friendly way to eat local food.
Buy seafood fresh: Manta is a major fishing port; local markets and simple seafood stalls serve fresh fish for much less than tourist restaurants.

Know the two seasons: The warmer, wetter season runs roughly December to May, while June to November is drier, cooler and often overcast.
Pack sun protection: Even on cloudy days the equatorial sun is strong; bring high-SPF sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses.
Bring a light layer: Evenings in the cooler season can be breezy; a light jacket or long sleeves help after sunset.

Try manabí cuisine: Taste viche, a hearty seafood and peanut soup, ceviche with peanut and encebollado, the beloved Ecuadorian fish soup.
Greet with a handshake: Ecuadorians are polite and friendly; greet people warmly with buenos días or buenas tardes before asking for help.
Visit Montecristi for hats: Nearby Montecristi is the home of the toquilla straw hat, often called the Panama hat; buy from local weavers and shops.

Go whale watching: From roughly June to September humpback whales come to this coast; tours leave from Manta and nearby Puerto López.
Try kitesurfing: Santa Marianita beach, south of Manta, has steady winds and kitesurfing schools for beginners.
Watch the fishing fleet: Early mornings at the beach near the port show fishermen unloading the catch, a lively scene of local life.

Only have a day? Each one keeps you in one area, from morning to late afternoon, with lunch nearby.

Day 1 of 2

🕘 9:30–17:00📍 6 stops

Day 2 of 2

🕘 9:30–12:45📍 3 stops