Salango

Visitors are drawn to Salango for its serene atmosphere and proximity to some of Ecuador’s most biodiverse marine environments. The nearby Isla Salango is a haven for snorkeling and diving, offering glimpses of colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, and even sea turtles. Inland, the Machalilla National Park provides lush trails through dry coastal forests, home to unique bird species. Culturally, the town features an archaeological museum detailing the history of pre-Columbian coastal cultures. Gastronomy here is heavily focused on fresh seafood; you must try the local ceviche and encocado, prepared with ingredients caught the very same day. Reaching Salango is straightforward via a short bus ride or taxi from the popular hub of Puerto López. The best time to visit is from June to September, which perfectly coincides with the spectacular humpback whale watching season along the Pacific coast, offering an unforgettable wildlife experience.

Nearby cities

Portoviejo

Known as the City of the Royal Tamarinds due to the many trees in the area.

Manta

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Chone

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Bahía de Caráquez

One of the first cities in the world declared ecological, featuring a beautiful bay.

Jipijapa

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Montecristi

The true home of the Panama hat and the birthplace of Ecuadorian president Eloy Alfaro.

Calceta

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Muisne

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Pedernales

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Ayampe

Ayampe is a tranquil, eco-friendly beach town nestled between lush jungle and the ocean, ideal for surfing and yoga.

Puerto Cayo

Puerto Cayo is a beautiful coastal village favored for its wide beaches, surfing spots, and humpback whale watching.

Crucita

A scenic fishing village celebrated as a premier destination for coastal paragliding.

Canoa

Canoa offers one of Ecuador's longest beaches, providing a relaxed, uncrowded alternative for surfing, paragliding, and dramatic ocean su…

Mompiche

A small fishing village on Ecuador's Pacific coast known for its excellent surf breaks and relaxed atmosphere.

Cojimíes

Cojimíes is a quiet fishing village on the Pacific coast, famous for its endless palm-fringed beaches and delicious seafood.

More places

Puerto López Fishing Port

A small but lively fishing port that also serves as a starting point for whale watching tours.

Agua Blanca

The remains of a major city of the Manteño culture on the Ecuadorian coast.

Tagua Processing

Workshops that process the tagua nut, also known as 'vegetable ivory', into buttons, jewelry, and handicrafts.

Palo Santo Distillation

Facilities for the distillation of essential oil from the wood of the Palo Santo tree, valued for its aroma and spiritual purposes.

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Pacoche Forest

A coastal wildlife refuge featuring a unique microclimate that sustains a lush forest in an otherwise dry region.

Machalilla National Park

This park protects the unique tropical dry forest on Ecuador's coast, as well as stunning beaches and nearshore marine ecosystems.

Port of Manta

A major seaport on the Pacific, important for tuna fishing and as a port of call for cruise ships.

Pesquera Polar Tuna

A leading company in Manta specializing in the processing and canning of tuna for export.