Highlightsea level
1Puerto López and Machalilla
Fishing village next to Machalilla National Park. From June to September you see humpback whales, all year blue-footed boobies on Isla de la Plata, and Los Frailes beach.
Mainland / Coast
The coast of Ecuador
Whales, blue-footed boobies and long beaches on the Pacific, with Guayaquil as the gateway to Galápagos.
0 to 500 m2 areas2 to 4 days
Where to go
The southern coast
Of the long coastline, the south is the part to visit. We have advised against the northern coast, on the border with Colombia, for years.
The area around Machalilla National Park offers the most options to relax and see nature. The park includes Isla de la Plata, a good alternative if you are not visiting Galápagos.
Guayaquil to Puerto López is about three hours by road. You can also get there from Chimborazo, or from Quito and Cotopaxi.
Areas
Highlights of the coast
Citysea level
2Guayaquil
The largest city and port in the country, with the Malecón along the river and the steps of Las Peñas. Departure point for Galápagos and the coast.
Natural parks on the coast
Mangroves, dry forest and islands.
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