Travel Reference
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proach to ecology that emphasizes sustainability, community self-
determination and regional self-reliance.” One of the major town pro-
jects includes re-vegetating the surrounding land to prevent
mudslides, a phenomenon that devastated parts of the town - and in-
deed entire villages inEcuador - during the El Niño floods of 1997-98.
Other projects include developing alternative energy sources, treat-
ing sewage biologically, clean water preservation, and incorporating
community and household ecology into the lives of local inhabitants.
This is all new, having only begun in 1999, so it will take time before
success can be measured. In the meantime, though, you can help by
donating time or money, or simply start by visiting their website at
www.planetdrum.org.
There are many other destinations around Bahía that are also
nature-oriented and/or operated in conjunction with these “sustain-
able” efforts. The Río Chone estuary offers one example of a deli-
cate balance between ecotourism and the community's traditional
shrimp farming. Ecotourism provides local income while maintain-
ing ecological integrity. Shrimp farming, on the other hand, benefits
mainly foreigners, while desecrating the local environment. You can
visit the Río Chone estuary by boat and experience the mangrove for-
ests and marine life. Nearby islands include Isla de Fragatas ,
where the magnificent frigate bird resides, and Isla Corazón , which
has a newly built boardwalk for visitors.
Bahía Tour Operators
For local excursions, inquire with Bahía Dolphin Tours,
Av. Bolívar 1004 and Riofrío,
/fax 5-692-
088), for trips to Chirije , a unique and historically impor-
tant archeological site in the vicinity. They also offer trips to
native villages farther inland. Another option is
Guayacamayo-Bahía Tours , Av. Bolívar 902 and
Arenas,
5-692-097,
/fax 5-691-280, ecopapel@
impsat.net.ec or ecopapel@ecuadorexplorer.com. They offer
local programs and donate proceeds to support community
efforts. Ask about their island trips to see nesting seabird
colonies, the organic shrimp farm, as well as whale-
watching and horseback trekking. Bikes are also available.
Another Bahía-based tour operator is El Ceibos ,atAv.
Bolívar 200 and Calle Checa,
5-691-107/412,
/fax 5-690-801, mobile 9-
714-7340, ceibos@hotmail.com, www.geocities.com/
etours_ecuador. Although I am not familiar with them,
their code of ethics is to support local efforts.
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