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| Appointed in 1979 as a National Park, with an area of 55,000 hectares, the Machalilla National Park protects marine and coastal habitats and also the abundant archaeological remains. It is a tropical dry forest contrasting with the wet cloud forest. Spectacular handcrafts and varied gastronomy. |
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| Is physically and biologically very similar to the Galapagos, as several books have described it. It is the only place in the world, besides the Galapagos, where Waved Albatrosses nest. Other birds also nest here, such as the red billed tropic bird and the largest colony of frigate birds. |
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In addition, the waters around the Isla de la Plata are a playground for more than eleven different species of marine mammals, including a small colony of sea lions.
From June to October, Humpback Whales from Antarctica congregate here to bear their young and court, with spectacular displays of breaching and spy-hopping, while competing for the females' attention. Several species of resident porpoises can be observed year around. |
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A spectacular biodiversity of underwater marine life exists because the Humboldt current flowing from the south meets the northbound warm El Niño current. Big game fishing is great too, with world records for marlins and other coastal species caught here. |
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• Diving •Biking • Kayaks •Bird watching •Fishing • Museum • Handcrafts
For more information about our Mantaraya programs visit our WEB site or contact an adviser in Advantage Ecuador sending an e-mail to advantagetravel@andinanet net |
