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Taste of Ecuador: Fish Market, Forest trail, Local Food & Crafts
Manta, EC
91% of travellers recommend this
Highlights
- Meet the master artisan of Panama hats
- Spot howler monkeys in lush rainforest
- Learn about Ecuador's history of revolution
- Get authentic Panama hats and handwoven crafts
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Duration 7-8 hours
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Hotel/port pickup included
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Local bilingual guide
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Lunch included
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Visit Fish Market
Immerse yourselves in the culture and beauty of Manta with the Manabi Diversity Route: Panama Hat Making and Forest Excursion. Embark on a journey through history as you visit the workshop of Don Simon, the renowned artisan known for crafting the finest Panama hats in the world. Explore the lush rainforest of Pacoche and witness the incredible howler monkeys in their natural habitat. Discover Montecristi, the birthplace of Panama hats, and learn about Ecuador's revolutionary past. Throughout the tour, you'll have the opportunity to indulge in authentic Ecuadorian cuisine and take home prized souvenirs like a genuine Panama hat or intricately handwoven crafts. This 420-minute adventure promises to immerse you in the rich diversity of Ecuador's tropical forests and the artistry of traditional hat making.
At a Glance
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Free cancellation
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7 hours
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Instant Confirmation
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Available in Spanish; Castilian, German, English, French
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Mobile voucher
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Small Group tour
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Guided
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Family friendly
Please wait, fetching options!
Featured Reviews
Viator
Jul 24
Highly recommend this professional company. Correspondence was very efficient pre cruise. From pick-up to drop off we had a wonderful day. Guide and driver were fantastic.
Although we didn't see any monkeys, it wasn't for a lack of trying, but it's nature, nothing is guaranteed. BUT...seeing the tiniest frog, think a fingernail, and a snake that had caught a larger frog, to watching whales playing just offshore, definitely made up for it!
Viator
Mar 24
Perfect day with Gabby is a credit to the company. We had a great experience she is a true professional. Excellent driver helpful and polite
Viator
Aug 22
Very well organised. We did the Isla de la Plata tour, visited Pile and Montecristi where the real 'Panama' hats are made and finished our trip with a hike in Ayampe called the 'Ruta del colibrí'. The guides were all very helpful and bilingual. We got to see whales, sea turtles, fish and lots of birds. Pile was a very unique experience. I liked that it wasn't too touristy: it's very small-scale and you get to talk to the families which makes it a really intimate and special experience. We had fun, learned a lot and took some amazing pictures. Gabriel is great at what he does and always puts the client first. Also good communication and very punctual. Highly recommend!
Viator
Aug 19
Our small group tour was the "Ancient and History Tour" offered on the Narwell website. Our pleasant and knowledgeable guide was Kimberly. We drove out into the countryside from the Port of Manta and explored the museum and workrooms at the archeological site of "Cerro Jaboncillo" which has pieces from the last indigenous culture of the area, the Manabi. We also got to see authentic Panama hats being woven by a family of craftspersons who have done this for generations and also a local candy maker who sells her treats. The museum offered handmade crafts, as well as hats, for sale on a limited basis. From there, we visited the museum and mausoleum dedicated to General Eloy Alfaro, leader of the Ecuadorian Revolution. After that, it was on to the hillside town of Montecristi, where we had free time to explore on our own and buy handicrafts, clothing, hammocks and more at the many reasonably priced shops that lined the main street. Prior to returning to the Port, we enjoyed a reasonably priced local Ecuadorian lunch (self pay in US dollars) at the seafood restaurant, FISH CERVECERIA located in Manta. The ceviche there was very good. Fish was also available. The price of our tour was $75 US per person, based on a group of 8, paid to the guide on the day of the tour.
Viator
Apr 19
I have organized over 120 private tours from cruise ships with groups averaging 50-100 people in multiple vehicles. I select the best tour operators from TripAdvisor reviews so I always review the ones I use when returning from a cruise trip. During our recent 5 week South American trip I arranged 20 private tours averaging almost 100 people. So my review reflects my experience working with the tour operator to develop the itinerary, arrange vehicles and guides, and making payments; the tour Group that I participated in; and feedback from the other Groups in various vehicles on the tour.
I coordinated with Gabriel to arrange 3 itineraries for 9 Groups totaling 125 passengers. The itineraries included:
1. Custom Tour
2. Manabi Diversity Route
3. A taste of Ecuador
Gabriel was very responsive and helpful. The tours went well after a 1.5 hour delay in leaving the ship because the port and ship could not get the gangway in place properly. This meant that all the tour itineraries had to be replanned. It also rushed things in some places which is understandable.There was a complaint by 1 person in Group 3 and 9 about the air conditioning but those were resolved during the tour. The tour guides did a very good job. Lunch was good. A least one Group barely made it back to the ship in time because the guide was wrong about the hike in the park. The vehicles were older and windows dirty which limited visibility and photos (this is a big "no no") and that is the primary reason for a rating of 4 vs 5.
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Taste of Ecuador: Fish Market, Forest trail, Local Food & Crafts
Experience the rich culture and flavors of Ecuador with a guided tour of Manta, Montecristi, and the lush Pacoche rainforest.
Included
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All taxes, fees and handling charges -
Lunch
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Hotel/port drop-off
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In-vehicle air conditioning
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Hotel/port pickup
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Driver/guide
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Local blilingual guide English/Spanish
Excluded
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Gratuities
Meeting Point
Av. Malecón, Manta , Ecuador
End Point
Av. Malecón, Manta , Ecuador
Pickup
Check if pick-up is available from your location, you will select during checkout (providers may allow other pickup locations)
What to expect
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Your journey begins with a convenient pick-up from Manta, followed by a panoramic drive along downtown Manta, a bustling coastal road that leads to the engine of the local economy, the fish Market.
50 minutes
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Venture into the humid forest of Pacoche Reserve, home to howler monkeys and a kaleidoscope of tropical life.
100 minutes
Admission Included
3
San Lorenzo
Experience the delectable cuisine of the Ecuadorian coast at an authentic, locally-owned restaurant situated right on the beach.
60 minutes
4
Playa San Lorenzo
Mesmerize with the amazing view of hidden beaches and the majestic Pacific Ocean at the lookout of San Lorenzo.
35 minutes
Admission Included
5
Montecristi
The charming town of Montecristi offers an unforgettable experience for tourists seeking a taste of authentic Ecuadorian culture. Known for its world-renowned Panama hats, Montecristi is a must-visit destination for those interested in traditional craftsmanship and artisanal techniques. Here, we will learn about the revolutionary spirit of the Ecuadorian people in the Mausoleum of Ciudad Alfaro and visit a Panama Hat atelier to see the processes of hat making.
100 minutes
The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.
Additional Information
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A moderate amount of walking is involved (Depending on your physical shape, you could choose to do the complete trail or just half trail that is more suitable for seniors) -
Due to uneven surfaces, the second half of the trail at the rain-forest is not recommended for those with walking disabilities or using walkers or wheelchair
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May be operated by a multi-lingual guide
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Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
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Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
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Service animals allowed
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Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Provided by Narwell Tours
What our experts say
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Try the ceviche at the beachfront restaurant. -
Don't miss the hat ateliers in Montecristi.
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Bring comfortable shoes for the forest trail.
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Check out local crafts for unique souvenirs.
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Look for howler monkeys at Pacoche!
More About this Experience
Introduction
Taste of Ecuador: Fish Market, Forest trail, Local Food & Crafts is the ultimate day tour in Manta that offers a unique and immersive experience of the vibrant culture, breathtaking nature, and rich history of Ecuador. This tour combines the best of Manta and Montecristi, taking you on a journey that will leave you captivated and wanting more.What to expect?
Get ready to embark on a thrilling adventure that will introduce you to the fascinating features and hidden gems of Ecuador. Explore the bustling Fish Market and witness the heart of the local economy in action. Marvel at the boatyard and learn about the traditional fishing methods that have sustained generations. Experience the lush beauty of Pacoche, a rainforest teeming with life. As you walk through the forest trail, keep an eye out for howler monkeys swinging from tree to tree in their natural habitat. Immerse yourself in the rich biodiversity of Ecuador's coastal landscape, a true nature lover's paradise. Indulge in the mouthwatering flavors of Ecuadorian coastal cuisine at a beachfront family-owned restaurant. From fresh seafood to traditional dishes, savor the authentic tastes that will leave your taste buds craving for more. Discover the historical significance of Montecristi, known as the birthplace of "Panama hats" or Ecuadorian Toquilla Straw Hats. Explore the charming town and visit hat ateliers where skilled artisans showcase the final process of hat making. Take home an authentic Panama hat or intricate handwoven crafts as cherished souvenirs of your unforgettable Ecuadorian adventure.Who is this for?
This tour is designed for adventurous travelers seeking an authentic and immersive experience in Ecuador. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a food lover, a history buff, or simply someone looking to explore a new culture, this tour has something for everyone. It is inclusive and caters to a wide range of interests and preferences, ensuring that every participant can enjoy and appreciate the beauty and diversity of Ecuador.Why book this?
By booking this tour, you are guaranteed an unforgettable journey through the heart and soul of Ecuador. The unique selling points of this tour lie in its ability to provide a comprehensive experience that encompasses the cultural, natural, and historical aspects of the region. From the bustling Fish Market to the tranquil forest trail, you'll be immersed in the sights, sounds, and flavors that make Ecuador truly special. Not only will you witness the vibrant local economy in action, but you'll also have the opportunity to explore lush rainforests and spot fascinating wildlife. You'll indulge in mouthwatering coastal cuisine and learn about the fascinating history of hat making in Montecristi. By the end of this tour, you'll have gained a deep appreciation for the rich heritage and natural wonders that make Ecuador a must-visit destination.Good to know
It's important to note that this tour includes hotel/port drop-off and pickup, ensuring a seamless and convenient experience for participants. All taxes, fees, and handling charges are also covered, so you can focus on enjoying the tour without any additional worries. The tour is led by experienced and bilingual guides who will provide insightful commentary in English and Spanish, enhancing your understanding and appreciation of the places you visit. Additionally, an air-conditioned vehicle will transport you comfortably throughout the tour, ensuring a pleasant journey. It is recommended to bring some cash for gratuities and any additional personal expenses you may have during the tour. Remember to wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking and exploring. Don't forget your camera to capture the breathtaking moments and unique experiences that await you on this incredible adventure.Reviews
Travelers who have embarked on this tour rave about the immersive experience and the knowledgeable guides who provided valuable insights. They commend the diverse range of activities and attractions included in the itinerary, from the lively Fish Market to the tranquil forest trail. The delicious coastal cuisine and the opportunity to learn about hat making in Montecristi were also highly praised. Overall, individuals who have booked this tour have expressed their satisfaction with the well-rounded experience it offers. They consider it a highlight of their visit to Ecuador, as it provides a comprehensive understanding of the culture, nature, and history of the region. This tour truly leaves a lasting impression and creates memories that will be cherished for a lifetime.
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