NATURE TOUR FROM GUAYAQUIL

Destinations: Cerro Blanco – Puerto Hondo – Manglares Churute

Estimated Duration: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Type: Guided eco-tour / Nature & wildlife experience
Recommended for: Wildlife watchers, photographers, hikers, nature lovers

Morning – Cerro Blanco Protected Forest

Time: 8:00 AM – 10:30 AM

Location: 15 minutes from downtown Guayaquil

Highlights: Guided hike through the tropical dry forest, one of the most biodiverse dry forests in South America

Possible sightings of howler monkeys, white-tailed deer, and over 200 bird species, including the endangered Guayaquil macaw

Learn about native plant species and conservation efforts

Visit to the Environmental Education Center (optional)

Tip: Wear light hiking gear, sunscreen, insect repellent, and bring water

Late Morning – Puerto Hondo Community Mangroves

Time: 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM

Location: 10 minutes from Cerro Blanco

Highlights: Eco-friendly canoe tour through mangrove tunnels and estuaries

Observe native birdlife, crabs, and coastal plants

Learn how the local community manages sustainable tourism and mangrove protection

Optional visit to a small local seafood restaurant for fresh ceviche or fish dishes

Optional: Enjoy a quick coffee or fresh coconut water before heading out

Lunch Stop

Time: 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant near Manglares Churute, featuring fresh Ecuadorian cuisine (fish, rice, plantains, and juices).
Alternatively, picnic lunch can be arranged in the reserve’s visitor area.

Afternoon – Manglares Churute Ecological Reserve

Time: 1:45 PM – 5:00 PM

Location: ~1 hour from Guayaquil

Highlights: Boat ride through Ecuador’s largest mangrove reserve (Churute covers ~50,000 hectares)

Spot dolphins, roseate spoonbills, herons, and other wetland species

Hike along the “El Mate” trail to see howler monkeys, tropical plants, and cacao trees

Visit to a cacao plantation or traditional trapiche (sugarcane press) depending on time and interest

Note: Park rangers or naturalist guides often accompany visitors

Return to Guayaquil

Time: 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Relax on the drive back to the city after a full day of immersion in Ecuador’s coastal ecosystems.

What’s Included (Recommended for Tour Operators)

• Private transportation (air-conditioned van or SUV)
• Bilingual naturalist guide
• Entry fees to protected areas
• Boat & canoe ride fees
• Lunch & refreshments
• Binoculars and rain poncho (optional)