Get ready to discover the richness of the Ecuadorian region on this unforgettable day tour in Manta.

Learn about the fascinating story behind the famous Toquilla Straw Hats, also known as “Panama Hats,” which hold the distinction of being a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. Begin your journey with a stroll through the picturesque Pacoche Wildlife Refuge, a famous landmark on the Ecuadorian coast. Here, you’ll see the palm trees from which the weavers get the straws and the incredible wildlife that inhabits the area, including the impressive howler monkeys.

Meet the legendary weaver Don Simon, who is considered the best Toquilla Straw Hat weaver in the world. He will welcome us into his home at Pile, a little weaver’s village. We will share his story and explain and demonstrate the process from straw to the final product.

At the end of the tour, we’ll visit Montecristi, the town where all the weavers take their hats to sell. We’ll stop at a shop where the hats are finished, and you’ll witness the final steps of the process and even have the privilege of getting your customized hat. While in Montecristi, we’ll also visit a short museum and have some time to indulge in the top street stores.

Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to explore the region’s cultural heritage and bring home a customized Toquilla Straw Hat as a memento of your unforgettable journey.

• 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 (48 hours) 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 (24 hours before the event) 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.

- 8:30 Pick up at Manta's Cruise Terminal

- 9:10 Walk through the "Monkey Trail" at Pacoche National Wildlife Refuge (1:45 minutes walk). The second half of the walk is not recommended for individuals with mobility issues, so depending on the group, we may decide to walk only half of the trail.

- 11:00 On the way to Pile Weaver's town

- 11:20 Visit the hat maker's home and learn about the Panama Hat process and tradition

- 12: 30Lunch at a local restaurant beachfront restaurant

- 13:20 On the way to Montecristi

- 14:00 Visit the Museum of the Ecuadorian Revolution.

- 15:00 Panama hat weaving demonstration in Montecristi's downtown and free time to visit the central plaza, craft shops, and church

- 16:15 approx. Drop off at the Cruise Terminal