Isla de la Plata: Wildlife Trails & Snorkeling at Machalilla Park

4.9 (20 reviews) 6–7 hours Free cancellation

out of 5

20 reviews

4.9

Isla de la Plata: Wildlife Trails & Snorkeling at Machalilla Park — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Isla de la Plata: Wildlife Trails & Snorkeling at Machalilla Park, photo 2 — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

Explore the "Little Galapagos" on this nature-focused walking tour to Isla de la Plata in Machalilla National Park. Stroll scenic trails with bilingual guides to observe blue-footed and masked boobies, frigatebirds, and seabirds in their habitat.

The experience includes snorkeling with sea turtles and colorful fish. We may spot dolphins and other marine animals (Dec-May). Ecuador is a humpback whale reproduction area, guaranteeing sightings during their season (Jun-Oct).

Visit our small Whale & Dolphin Information Center at the Palo Santo office featuring educational displays, whale bones, regional stories, and a whale-themed store.

A naturalist shares educational insights about local ecology. This 7-hour experience combines walking, nature observation, and learning in one of Ecuador's diverse ecosystems. We provide equipment, lunch, and water. Small groups ensure a personalized experience for families and nature enthusiasts.

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At a glance

Duration: 6–7 hours
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Up to 16 people
People per booking: 1–16
Guide: English, Spanish
Operated by: PALO SANTO TRAVEL

Ages: Infants (0–1 years) · Children (2–11 years) · Adults (18–90 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Snacks: Box lunch included sandwichs, fruits, cake and soft drinks
Included: Private transportation: From/To Isla de la Plata
Included: Use of snorkeling equipment: Use of Snorkelling equipment
Included: Admission fees: Machalilla National Park fee

Not included

Not included: Tips

Itinerary

Stop 1

4 hours

Discover the nature of the "Little Galapagos" with this expedition to Isla de la Plata in Machalilla National Park.

On this educational outing, you'll walk scenic trails where you'll observe blue-footed boobies, masked boobies, frigatebirds, and various seabirds in their natural environment. Your bilingual guides will explain the biodiversity and ecological importance of the island.

The program includes time for snorkeling where you can see sea turtles, tropical fish, and occasionally sea lions. Between June and October, you'll have a 100% confirmed opportunity to observe whales that migrate to Ecuadorian waters to mate and reproduce. From January to May, there's a great possibility of encountering dolphins, manta rays, and other species of marine fauna during the tour. We meet in our office Palo Santo Travel in front of the navy in the Puerto Lopez malecon.

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

Our meeting point is Palo Santo Travel, located on the Malecón, at the corner of Julio Izurieta and Abdón Calderón streets, right next to Cable Mega7 in Puerto López, Manabí. If you're arriving by tuk-tuk or moto taxi, just ask the driver to take you to:

"Palo Santo Travel, beside MEGA 7."

End point

Our meeting point is Palo Santo Travel, located on the Malecón, at the corner of Julio Izurieta and Abdón Calderón streets, right next to Cable Mega7 in Puerto López, Manabí. If you're arriving by tuk-tuk or moto taxi, just ask the driver to take you to:

"Palo Santo Travel, beside MEGA 7."