Day 1: Quito to Manta – Montecristi Panama hats and Howler Monkeys

Departing Quito early in the morning by plane to the city of Manta to enjoy a delightful day in company of the men who make the Panama hats from their homes, since Panama hats are indeed made in Ecuador and then exported worldwide. Visit the flea market in Montecristi for a chance to purchase souvenirs and of course affordable fine panama hats. After Leaving Montecristi we travel to the Pacoche reserve, to take a hike in the woods of the rain forest, this is not only beautiful, but we learn much about the local plants and the famous residents the Black Howler Monkeys. We later enjoy lunch along the beach eating delicious ‘local’ seafood. If time permits we can also include a visit to the San Lorenzo Light house to catch a nice sunset. Return to Manta in the late afternoon for overnight.

Day 2: Chocolate origins, Community based tourism project Full day

After breakfast, we depart south along the ocean shore. Today is devoted to local projects. We visit a garden center of creole cocoa (the only ones to be authorized to cultivate this cocoa in the area, from Monday to Friday). We visit a plantation in the eco-community of Río Chico where the national cocoa of “fine” aroma is cultivated. You can also spot other tropical fruits such as lemons, oranges and coconut plantations. We will also visit a handicraft factory and have a well-deserved typical lunch. Part of today’s experiences is to pay a visit to the Cocoa Association where you’ll discover the post harvesting process (drying, fermenting, storing, and exporting). And finally we’ll visit a community where they will show us how to make chocolate from the cocoa beans. Return to Manta in the late afternoon. Overnight in Manta.

Day 3: The Coffee Road, Community based tourism project, Full day

Who doesn’t love coffee? This is a day of exploration and a learning experience about the Arabica coffee production process and quality.

We visit a “Finca” -Country Estate- We walk through the plantation and get explanations by the estate owner about the coffee maturation process. An essential and deserved coffee break with local coffee and typical products (corn cake) will be served. Here we can observe the coffee being roasted and partake in a tasting. We have the chance to taste the typical food of Manabí in a delicious lunch provided by the local communities and get to know more about the regional economy and one of its most drunk products in the world. Our day continues with a visit to an export coffee company to see the post-harvest process (drying, storing and exporting) Share experiences with the local community. Return to Manta in the late afternoon for our overnight stay in the city.

Day 4: Manta beach morning

Final day in the Manta area, depending on your flight schedule, we can arrange a day of relaxation by the beach and explore the nearby beaches such as Santa Marianita, famous for Kite Surfing, explore the fish market at Tarqui beach and the artisanal shipyards or simply sun bathe at El Murcielago beach, all places are located within the Manta area. Transfer to the airport or continue to your next destination.

It includes

    • Bilingual Guide
    • Transportation
    • Detailed entrances
    • Breakfast

Does not include

    • Meals
    • Drinks
    • Additional activities
All the coastal provinces are of warm climate

Regular plan

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