Manta is a picturesque and important port on the Pacific Ocean, located in a dry tropical forest with an average annual temperature of 25 degrees Celsius (77° F).
Because it has some of South America's most breathtaking beaches, Manta was selected as the site of the sixth South American Windsurfing Championship. It is reknowned for its diving and sport fishing. It also serves as the primary industrial port of Ecuador's tuna industry.

In addition, Manta hosts an International Theater Festival in September. Sporting events take place in November, and also from January through April. In the city one also finds a selection of first rate night clubs, amusement parks, and casinos.

Manta has a rich history: it was originally settled by the pre-Hispanic Manteña culture. Today it is a primary city in the province of Manabì.

Nearby in the province is the famous Isla de la Plata, which has flora and fauna similar to that found in the Galápagos Islands. On Isla de la Plata one finds such unique species as blue-footed boobies and frigate birds. One can also see whales there from June through September.

Produced in Manabì and known throughout the world are the original and official "Panama" hats, which are made just outside of Manta in the town of Montecristi. Manabì is also famous for its delicious cuisine, much of which is the best in the country. For those who enjoy seafood Manta is second to none.

Manta has its own airport with direct flights to Quito and Guayaquil. From Manta one can easily and quickly access other destinations of interest in this small but diverse country. Ecuador contains four entirely distinct regions, each unique inits climate and traditions; they are the Oriente (jungle), Sierra (mountains), Costa (tropical coast), and the Galàpagos Islands.

Beaches

• Crucita: Hang Gliding and parasailing are available 1 ½ hours from Manta.
• San Jacinto and San Clemente. (2 hours from Manta)
• San Vicente and Canoa. (3 hours from Manta)
• Puerto López and Puerto Cayo. (2 ½ hours from Manta)
• Los Frailes. (2 ½ hours from Manta)

URBAN AREA

• The Murcielago, with its scenic boardwalk has a group of restaurants, recreational sports, craft markets, bars and other places for fun and relaxation.Located nearby are banks, hotels and a commercial area. The waters are favorable for practicing aquatic sports such as surfing, sailing, body-boarding, and fishing.
• Tarqui, Park of the Shellfish is where delicious local foods are prepared for your enjoyment. The practice of several sports is also available.
• Barbasquillo Tourist Complex: There is a pool, sauna, gym, and disco with direct access to an extensive beach. There are also horses available for riding along the beach.
• San Mateo: Area of urban expansion, home to fishermen who are dedicated to their occupation, much like their Manteña ancestors.

RURAL AREA

• La Tiñosa: A rest area with sand dunes and cactus that measure 3 meters high and various plant species.
• Santa Marianita: Fishermens´ rural area.
• Liguique: Beach far from the urban contour, where you can find rocky areas inhabited by snails, octopi, and lobsters.
• San Lorenzo's Lighthouse: Wide beaches with wonderful views from the lighthouse where you can see the Isla de la Plata (Island of Silver). This area is part of an ecological reserve called Parque Nacional Machalilla

Outside of Manta

• Machalilla National Park: With its well known Isla de la Plata offers similar fauna to the Galápagos Islands (2 ½ hours from Manta). **
• Montecristi: Home of the famous Panamá Hats (15 minutes from Manta)
• San Plácido Waterfalls: Natural waterfalls inside a forest of incredible flora. (2 hours from Manta)
• La Locita Waterfalls: Natural waterfalls located in the town of Junín. (2 hours from Manta)
• Bahía de Caráquez: Islas Frigatas, The Orchids Tropical Dry Forest, Island of The Birds, Wetlands of the Río Chone Estuary, Hikes to the Punta Bellaca, and Los
• Humedales - an impressive ecosystem of lagoons and meadows. (2 ½ hours from Manta)

** For students of the SURPACÍFICO SPANISH SCHOOL we offer special organized tours to the Machalilla National Park and Galápagos Islands at reduced prices.