Excursion Following the manteños footprints tour at Manta

Discover the archeological and natural site of Cerro Jaboncillo during this half-day excursion.

Manta City Drive

Begin with a drive along Manta's "malecón" or promenade. Your guide will enlighten you on the history of this area, which was home to pre-Columbian peoples such as the Manteña culture, whose fragments of pottery are the oldest found anywhere in South America.

Continue with an approximately one hour scenic drive to Picoazá, where the archeological site of Cerro Jaboncillo is located.

Cerro Jaboncillo

The archaeological site of Cerro Jaboncillo is unique because it allows observation of a distinct and complex society that was established in the area between 900 and 1500 AD. This developed society controlled large areas of Guayas and Manabi provinces in Ecuador. The Cancebí-Manteños acquired highly developed levels in their society practices and with their control of the sea extended their culture to the California Gulf, Mexico, Chile and Peru.

Private Director's Lecture

Upon arrival at the site, take part in an enriching private lecture, hosted by the Archeological site project´s Director, who will share his experience. At Cerro Jaboncillo, they are making huge efforts to promote and keep the pre-Hispanic cultural treasure, as well as leading many projects to keep developing and spreading their ideas in similar areas of Ecuador´s Coastal region.

Hiking through the archeological site

Visiting this place is an experience that mixes culture, tourism and nature. Located on the eastern slope of Cerro Jaboncillo, the area around the archaeological site features a variety of plants and animals that survive in a unique ecosystem that depends on water cycles, especially in the summer fog. Enjoy an approximately one hour hike through the site.

Following your visit, depart Cerro Jaboncillo and drive approximately 20 minutes to Portoviejo.

Portoviejo

Portoviejo houses over 200,000 inhabitants and is the capital of the Manabi Province, in the country is known as the city of the "Royal Tamarind Trees" for the trees found in the area. The city is a large commercial center for the province. It is the opportunity to enjoy delicious tastes, the diversity of ingredients is one of the keys to Manabi cuisine, though undoubtedly green plantains are the stars among the preparations including combinations with many local ingredients such as crushed and/or roasted peanuts, corn, cassava, pumpkin, seafood, pork etc.

Local snack

Stop for a  snack at a local restaurant which includes traditional manabita dishes such as: cheese or chicken turnovers, green plantain dumplings, corn pie, cooked green plantain rolls stuffed with seafood or pork and tamales.

Finally drive approximately 75 minutes back to the ship.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion may include: Manta city highlights, Cerro Jaboncillo archeological site, Director's lecture, local snacks, natural habitat

Note

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of hiking of approximately 1.5 kilometre, including uneven ground, steep inclines and numerous steps. This tour is not suitable for guests with mobility problems or who utilize wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable clothing, a raincoat, hiking boots and sun protection are recommended. Wildlife sighting is not guaranteed.