North Coast & Lowlands
The Tsáchila people number about 3000; their eight communities spread across a 10500-sq-km reserve around Santo Domingo. A community tour is available…
Must-see attractions in North Coast & Lowlands
Reserva Ecológico de Manglares Cayapas-Mataje
North Coast & Lowlands
Millions of migratory birds pass through this coastal paradise in June and July, creating a cacophonous and memorable spectacle. The 513 sq km reserve…
Museo Historico de Montecristi
North Coast & Lowlands
Revolutionary and two-time president Eloy Alfaro was born in Montecristi, and here is an amazing tribute to the man: a hilltop museum with a panoramic…
North Coast & Lowlands
We're hoping this reserve, 26 km south of Perdanales and 3km off the main highway, opens to tourism soon. Last we heard, Third Millenium Alliance (www…
Playa de Oro Reserva de Tigrillos
North Coast & Lowlands
Half an hour upstream from Playa de Oro, this 100-sq-km reserve is owned and operated by the community of Playa de Oro. It borders the Reserva Ecológica…
North Coast & Lowlands
The east end of this stretch of sand is a hive of activity early in the mornings, as vendors sell row upon row of shark, tuna, swordfish, dorado and other…
North Coast & Lowlands
Bird-watchers shouldn't miss a visit to Isla Corazon, where you can take guided tours through mangroves in search of frigate birds, herons, egrets and…
North Coast & Lowlands
Only 2km from Muisne, this 6.5-sq-km marine reserve established by Jatun Sacha in 2000 focuses on mangrove conservation and organic aquaculture…
North Coast & Lowlands
This beach is less protected than most beaches in the area and has bigger waves (although they’re not very big) along with a powerful undertow. It’s a…
North Coast & Lowlands
Built of materials imported from the US and Europe in 1912, this church has survived two big earthquakes. Alberto Santos, a big-time businessman of the…
North Coast & Lowlands
This combined museum, library and bookstore contains materials ranging from recent local history to fine ceramics and gold work from the ancient Tolita…
Museo Arqueológico del Banco Central
North Coast & Lowlands
The fully modernized city museum opened in its current location in 2009, and showcases valuable artifacts from pre-Colombian Manta culture, a selection of…
North Coast & Lowlands
High above the peninsula and boasting great views of the city, sea and river, this viewpoint at the south end of town can be reached on foot or by a short…
North Coast & Lowlands
An incomparable photo op: the city's iconic fish, a gargantuan albacore tuna (atún), with tin can attached.
North Coast & Lowlands
A stay at the Los Naranjos community includes meals, a tour, and a language class. If you're just coming for the day, the tour and an 'aura cleaning'…
Museo Arqueologica Playa Africa
North Coast & Lowlands
See a collection of more than 6000 pieces of artifacts from the region. Get off a northbound bus in Montalvo and ask for local transport (car or motorbike…
Basilica Santisima Virgen de Montserrat
North Coast & Lowlands
Dating back to the early 20th century, this beautiful church contains a statue of the Virgin to which miracles have been attributed. While the Museo…
North Coast & Lowlands
You’ll find a good introduction to the area’s indigenous history at this well-curated modern museum. The collection includes hundreds of pieces of pre…
North Coast & Lowlands
This new walkway along the bay features cell-charging stations, a skate park, a dozen food stands and the largest Ecuadorian flag you will ever see. A…
