History, nature, and coastal flavors in one unforgettable day

Few ports offer the depth that Manta does — and this full-day excursion is designed to make the most of every hour ashore. From pre-Columbian archaeology to coastal forest wildlife and fresh Ecuadorian food, this is Manta at its most authentic.

Cerro Jaboncillo — Ancient History of the Manteños

Your day begins with a drive to Cerro Jaboncillo, an archaeological site perched above the coast, where the last indigenous civilization of the region — the Manteños — left behind a remarkable legacy. Walk trails lined with ancient houses, irrigation systems, and ceremonial structures, then explore the on-site museum, home to the iconic U-shaped power seats that defined this culture.

Pacoche Wildlife Refuge — Ecuador's Coastal Wilderness

Just 30 minutes from the cruise terminal, Pacoche is one of Ecuador's most biodiverse coastal reserves and one of its best-kept secrets. Set 300 meters above sea level, the refuge is home to a remarkable dry tropical forest ecosystem — one of the most threatened habitats on the Pacific coast of South America. The trails wind through dense canopy and lush undergrowth, where the flora alone tells a story of remarkable resilience and variety. With some luck, you may spot howler monkeys in the treetops, one of the refuge's most emblematic residents. A guided forest trail leads you through the canopy, followed by a short car ride to the lighthouse path to Cape San Lorenzo — a protected beach with sweeping views over the Pacific.

Manta's Coastal Gastronomy

No day in Manta is complete without sitting down to the food that defines this region. We'll treat you to a bowl of Tonga — a traditional Manabí stew slow-cooked in banana leaves, rich with local spices and the flavors that have defined coastal Ecuadorian cooking for generations. Simple, soulful, and unlike anything you'll find back on the ship.

• There is no cancellation fee if you cancel at least 7 calendar days in advance. Depending on your payment method, a 1 - 2.9% transaction cost will be retained.
• If you cancel between 3 to 6 calendar days in advance, you will charge a 50% cancellation fee.
• If you cancel within 2 calendar days in advance, you will be charged a 100% cancellation fee.
• Exceptions: Covid-19, political reasons, inclement weather. If you cancel your tour between the day booked to 1 calendar day due to Covid-19-related reasons or the ones mentioned above, you may choose to reschedule your tour to a future date or ask for a refund for the total price of the tour. Depending on your payment method, a 1-2.9% transaction cost will be retained.

To review our complete Terms & Conditions, please click the following link: T&C.

- 8:00 Pick up at Manta's Cruise Terminal

- 8:00 En route to Jaboncillo Archaeological Site (55-minute ride)

- 9:00 Stroll around the Archaeological Site (1-hour Moderate to Strenuous Walk)

- 10:30 Visit the on-site Museum

- 11:30 En route to local restaurant (55-minute ride)

- 12:30 Traditional lunch

- 13:40 Walk through Pacoche's Monkey Trail (1-hour walk) Easy to Moderate

- 15:00 Visit the Lighthouse Viewpoint

- 15:30 On the way to Manta's Cruise Terminal

- 16:15 Approx. Drop off