Tour Details

Manta Highlights and Montecristi Panama Hat Factory

This half-day tour will take you behind the scenes at Manta’s fish market and nearby boat factory. Along the way, see buttons crafted from coconuts, try on iconic hats in Montecristi, and explore the exhibits at Ciudad Alfaro.

Manta unquestionably stands out as the ideal starting point for a tour of this province. Your journey will start with a visit to the bustling fish market to observe the remarkable process by which our fishermen bring fresh catches to our tables. Next up is a stop at the boat factory, offering you a glimpse into the craftsmanship behind the construction of these remarkable fishing vessels.

Following that, we'll make our way to the intriguing Button Factory, where you can see the intricate art of crafting buttons and figurines from coconut, a tropical gem. Yes, you heard that right; these masterpieces are created from a coconut variety exclusive to tropical regions, often referred to as vegetable ivory.

Our journey will then proceed to Montecristi, a charming town just a short 15-minute drive from Manta. Montecristi is renowned for its exquisite Montecristi hats, also known as Panama hats, with high quality and durability that attracts both men and women. This city holds a special place in the hearts of Ecuadorians, and attracts numerous visitors eager to witness the intricate weaving of these straw hats. Pick out a hat to wear as a fashion statement back home, and as a souvenir you’ll use and treasure for years to come.

You’ll also explore Ciudad Alfaro, a sprawling complex constructed to pay homage to our former president, Eloy Alfaro. Despite his affluent background, Alfaro passionately championed the fight against inequality in 1895. It's worth noting that this complex holds historical significance as the site where our last constitution was signed in 2008. Step inside and marvel at the statue-adorned mausoleum, containing Alfaro’s ashes, along with references to his Masonic heritage. Walk inside the 20th century steam engine, and spend some time perusing the exhibits; the experience is a literal walk through Ecuadorian history.