In a nutshell

A tour that allows guests to learn about the ancient cultures that lived in the province of Manabi.

Main stops

Pacoche Lodge: semi-arid desert, dry tropical forest and rainforest
Pacoche nature reserve with a wide variety of flora and fauna: howler monkeys, over 250 species of birds, orchids, ornamental plants and toquilla palm trees
Visit to the local handicraft centre
Trapiche: mill that extracts the juice from sugar cane
Light snack

The programme

We begin with a drive along Manta’s “malecon”, or promenade. This region was home to pre-Columbian peoples such as the Valdivia, whose fragments of pottery are the oldest found anywhere in South America. We’ll also learn about the different traditions of the Manabita people, including the cholo (fisherman), montubio (countryside worker) and farmer. The archaeological site of Cerro Jaboncillo is unique because it allows observation of a distinct and complex society that was established in the area between 900 and 1500 AD. This developed society controlled large areas of Guayas and Manabí provinces in Ecuador. The Cancebí-Manteños acquired highly developed levels in their society practices and with their control of the sea extended their culture to the California Gulf, Mexico, Chile and Peru. Visiting this place is an experience that mixes culture, tourism and nature. Located on the eastern slope of Cerro Jaboncillo, the area around the archaeological site features a variety of plants and animals that survive in a unique ecosystem that depends on water cycles, especially in the summer fog. Return to the cruise terminal.

Good to know

A light packed snack is included after the visit.