The small coastal town of Puerto Lopez packs a punch with its excellent selection of nature-based tours. Local guides lead intimate bird watching trips where you’ll easily spot dozens of species in their natural habitat. The real highlights are the whale watching excursions (June-September) and snorkeling adventures in the pristine waters of Machalilla National Park. I’m particularly fond of the guided hikes through the wet forests – they’re well-paced and showcase Ecuador’s incredible biodiversity. The Agua Blanca cultural tours offer a fascinating glimpse into ancient civilizations, complete with mud baths and artifact displays. Let’s explore the best tours this Pacific gem has to offer.
Key Points
- The Bird Watching Tours offer personalized experiences led by experts to identify over 50 Tumbesian bird species in small groups.
- Snorkeling and Whale Watching tours provide a unique adventure with a professional guide, transportation, and equipment for a full-day excursion.
- The Wet Forest Tour guides visitors through the lush forests of Machalilla National Park, including round-trip transfers, rubber boots, and lunch.
- The Los Frailes Tour offers a full-day exploration of Agua Blanca and Machalilla National Park, including cultural insights and meals.
- The Magnificent Machalilla Park Tour provides access to the park’s boat facilities and stunning coastal scenery, with transfers, a bilingual guide, and a box lunch.
Bird Watching Tours With Sandra Plúa – Manabi, Ecuador
Nestled in the coastal region of Manabi, Ecuador, Sandra Plúa offers personalized bird watching tours around Puerto Lopez.
Led by an expert familiar with Tumbesian bird species, these tours provide an immersive experience with the local avian life. Guests can expect to identify 50+ species during many of the outings.
The tours are offered to small groups of 2-6 people, ensuring a personalized experience. Transportation, accommodation transfers, and snacks are all included.
Binoculars and cameras are available for use, allowing participants to capture the vibrant birds in their natural habitat.
The tours start at 6:30 AM, with pickup available from select hotels. Confirmation is received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.
While not wheelchair accessible and not recommended for those with back problems or serious medical conditions, most travelers can participate.
With an overall rating of 4.6 out of 9 reviews, these bird watching experiences are an excellent way to take in the local avian life around Puerto Lopez, Ecuador.
Read our full review: Bird Watching Tours With Sandra Plúa – Manabi, Ecuador Review
Book now: Check availability
Snorkeling Tour and Whales Watching – Machalilla National Park
Seeking a different adventure, visitors can embark on a snorkeling tour and whale watching excursion in the Machalilla National Park near Puerto Lopez.
The tour lasts from 10:00 AM to the time participants return to the meeting point, with a maximum of 15 travelers. A professional guide leads the group, providing motor boat transportation, snacks, and the use of snorkeling equipment. Transfers to and from the meeting point at Machalilla Tours are included.
Participants should have a moderate level of physical fitness, as the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible. Recommended attire includes a coat or wind jacket, comfortable shoes, a bathing suit, towel, hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
While lunch and drinks aren’t provided, the tour price of $60.06 per person includes all other activities. Though non-refundable upon cancellation, confirmation is received at the time of booking.
With an overall rating of 5.0 based on a single review, this snorkeling and whale watching experience offers a unique opportunity to explore the natural wonders of Machalilla National Park.
Read our full review: Snorkeling Tour and Whales Watching – Machalilla National Park Review
Book now: Check availability
Wet Forest Tour – Machalilla National Park
Visitors to Puerto Lopez can explore the lush wet forests of Machalilla National Park on a guided tour. This 9 AM activity takes travelers through the park’s verdant forests, with a maximum of 15 participants.
The tour includes round-trip transfers, rubber boots, a professional bilingual guide, and lunch. Priced at $99.89 per person, the non-refundable tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is near public transportation.
Infants must sit on laps, though most travelers can participate. Confirmation is provided at booking, and the lowest price is guaranteed. However, the tour has a non-refundable cancellation policy, with no refunds issued if canceled.
Read our full review: Wet Forest Tour – Machalilla National Park Review
Book now: Check availability
Los Frailes Tour – Agua Blanca and Machalilla National Park
The Los Frailes Tour takes visitors on an immersive exploration of Agua Blanca and Machalilla National Park. This full-day excursion departs from Puerto Lopez at 9 am, with transfers to and from the meeting point included.
Travelers will visit the Agua Blanca Museum and enjoy a guided tour, providing insights into the region’s history and culture. Lunch and dinner are also provided as part of the package.
With a maximum of 15 travelers per tour, the experience offers an intimate and personalized adventure. The bilingual guide ensures clear communication throughout the day.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate. Infants must sit on laps during transportation.
Reviews for this tour are limited, with only one 1-star rating across Viator and Tripadvisor. Additional details and any updated reviews can be found online.
Read our full review: Los Frailes Tour – Agua Blanca and Machalilla National Park Review
Book now: Check availability
Magnificent Machalilla Park Tour
Exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Machalilla National Park, the Magnificent Machalilla Park Tour offers an immersive adventure for nature enthusiasts. Priced at $70.07 per person, this tour provides a full-day experience with a maximum of 15 travelers.
Departing at 10:15 am from the Machalilla Tours meeting point, the tour includes transfers, a bilingual guide, equipment, and a box lunch. Participants will have the opportunity to access the park’s boat facilities and enjoy the stunning coastal scenery.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps. With a 5.0 rating based on one review, the Magnificent Machalilla Park Tour is a highly-rated option for those seeking to explore the natural wonders of the region.
Visitors are advised to arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time, as the tour returns to the original meeting point. This tour offers a comprehensive and engaging way to discover the Machalilla National Park.
Read our full review: Magnificent Machalilla Park Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Bike Tour of Los Frailes Beach and the Agua Blanca Community
Although the itinerary may vary, the Bike Tour of Los Frailes Beach and the Agua Blanca Community typically commences at 9:00 am from the Machalilla Tours meeting point.
Travelers will be transferred to the starting location and provided with bicycles for a guided tour through the nearby Los Frailes Beach and Agua Blanca Community.
Along the way, they’ll visit a museum and enjoy a lunch and dinner as part of the package.
The tour can accommodate up to 15 participants and isn’t wheelchair accessible.
While reviews are positive with an average rating of 4.0, there are no 5-star ratings.
The tour is priced at $120 per person and is non-refundable for cancellations.
Read our full review: Bike Tour of Los Frailes Beach and the Agua Blanca Community Review
Book now: Check availability
Recap
Puerto Lopez offers a variety of exceptional tours that allow visitors to explore the region’s natural wonders. From birdwatching and snorkeling to hiking and biking, there’s something for all. Whether you’re interested in wildlife, beaches, or local culture, these tours provide an immersive and unforgettable experience. Visitors can expect to be guided by knowledgeable local experts who will share their passion for the area’s unique ecosystem and attractions.