Central & South Coast - Adventure Guide to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands - page 288

may find yourself sharing this secluded beachfront escape with locals
or vacationing Ecuadorians. In Canoa, just ask around for the latest
in surfboard rentals and lessons, as well as horseback riding options.
Your hotel is always the best place to start.

Whale-Watching, Diving & Island Excursions
Don't let the weather dissuade you, as it is pleasant along
the coast even if a bit overcast. And from June through
September, whale-watching has gained in popularity
along Ecuador's central coast. One major attraction in-
cludes whale-watching excursions into the waters near Puerto
López and Machalilla National Park . Here, the journey can pro-
duce sightings of protected humpback whales on their migration
north from Antarctica. The humpback is a truly graceful species and
one that is not shy about being near boats, though you should avoid
tour operators that actually chase the whales up close. Many outfit-
ters based in Puerto López offer whale-watching excursions as well as
trips to the park's Isla de la Plata for coastal wildlife viewing and
snorkeling. Prices for all of these water-based adventures are around
US$30 for a full-day excursion. Make sure you check ahead as to what
is included, as the national park fee is generally not. A few of these
companies also offer diving excursions.

Machalilla Tours , 5-604-154, Malecón and Julio Zuleta, leads

whale-watching and island trips, as well as excursions within the
mainland portion of the park. Inquire about their horseback riding as
well. Ecuador Amazing , also in Puerto López on Córdova, offers the
same. Call them in Quito, 2-2542-888, [e-mail],

www.ecuadoramazing.com. Manta Ray , in Puerto López along the
Malecón, or waterfront,

5-604-233, is recommended for whale-
watching and island trips, as well as having one of the more comfort-
able diving vessels in Puerto López (though this isn't saying much).
Also for diving, PADI-certified guides will accompany you from
Exploratur , located in town along the Central Malecón,

5-604-
123. Expect to pay up to $100 for a full day's dive package and be sure
to inquire ahead of time.

Other recommended outfitters in the area include Salangome
Travel , 5-604-120, in Puerto López, on the main road from the

“highway” to the beachfront, for boat trips to Isla de la Plata and
Machililla National Park. They charge about $40 per person,
including the park entrance fee; or try Pacarina Travel , in Puerto
López or at Alandaluz,

5-604-173.