Mantaraya Lodge is located at the Machalilla National Park in the Province of Manabi, 15 minutes drive from Puerto Lopez.
The Machalilla National Park is one of the most outstanding examples of Tropical Dry Forest that exists on the ecuadorian central coast. Established in 1979 and occupying more than 35.000 hectares, this special forest of Cretaceous origin (100 million years) is distinguished by the abundant number of species that have adapted to the high temperatures and low precipitation. Cactus, ceibos, carob and a species of terrestrialbromeliad are found along the seemingly dry, narrow river valleys; their growth enabled by its high humidity level, attracting a great number of birds and giving it a truly oasis appearance amidst arid surroundings.
Rates listed are for adults. Discounts available for children under 12--contact us for details.
Highlights
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. ...view more details
Abbreviated Itinerary
DAY 01: Flight from Quito to Manta or Portoviejo. Arrival and immediate departure by bus to Machalilla National Park, visiting on the way Montecristi village, famous “Panama Hats” manufacturers. Accommodation at Mantaraya Lodge. Lunch and in the afternoon, visit to the Salango Museum. Back to the hotel, briefing and dinner.
DAY 02: Breakfast. Full day visit to Isla de la Plata. Walk on trails. Box lunch. Swimming and snorkeling. Sailing back to Puerto López to Mantaraya Lodge, briefing and dinner.
DAY 03: Visit to Los Frailes beach (snorkel). Lunch and early departure by bus to Portoviejo or Manta to take the return flight to Quito. ...see full itinerary
Why should I choose this trip? What makes it better (different) than other trips?
Ultimately, Machalilla National Park is an ideal environment for offering a great many activities within the framework of Ecoturisim, such as birding, trekking, biking, snorkeling and camping. In addition, the possibility exist to realize scientific expeditions and environmetal studies for students interested in the different ecosystem found in this unique corner of Ecuador. ...view more details
Airfare Quito/Manta/Quito, Machalilla National Park fee ($20 US/adult) gratuities, alcoholic beverages
Lodging - Accommodations
What are the accommodations like?
Rooms are very ample and have either a balcony or terrace with a hammock, fan, as no air conditioning needed due to its size, private bath with hot water.
Lodging Types
2 Nights Lodge
Average number of rooms in boat/lodge/hotel average
11-15
Lodging capacity (Average)
31-50
Toilet Facilities
Details
Provider Social and Environmental Responsibility
Sustainable tourism and the protection of the environment and local communities are part of our commitment.
Maximum Age
None
Weather
Tropical, with an average year-round temp of 79 F. Rainy season is from April to August. Nights can sometimes get cool.
Yachts - Ships - Live Aboard Boats
Boat Speed
Travel Provider
Provider Name
Advantage Travel
Why should I choose this provider?
The importance we give to both, the sustainable tourism and the protection of the environment and local communities are part of our commitments. Responsibility , ethics and good quality is our best presentation card.
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TESTIMONIALS
We are back from a fabulous time at the Refugio Amazonas! I have nothing but raves about it all! Thanks for your help in getting us to this great place!
-- Susan L, Refugio Amazonas Family Adventure
We just got back from Peru on Sunday. It was a GREAT trip. We thoroughly enjoyed it! The highlight was truly the trek to Machu Picchu. Thanks for all of your help in making the trip very special. Everything went off without a hitch. We were very impressed.
-- Mary Ann, B., Multi-Activity Peru
We had a great time on the Galapagos Cruise. Our guides were very engaging and informative and everything was timed just right. We had the right amount of activity, food and leisure time every day. We are not \"cruising\" people and were apprehensive at first about being stuck on a boat for 7 days but we didn\'t feel \"stuck\" given the number of excursions we had each day and the fact that we snorkeled at least once or twice a day. We also extended our trip on the Islands and stayed at a hotel but definitely would recommend a cruise over staying on the islands. The islands gets very hot and there are lots of mosquitos but on the boat there is shade, wind and no bugs! Great amount of variety of animals and geography we saw. Sad to leave!
-- Wendy K., Galapagos Islands on the Eric, Letty, and Flamingo
I want to say I LOVED the trip. ECOCAMP was divine. Really amazing setting. The mix of people in the group was healthy. We all liked each other enough to dine every meal together.