Manta´s scenic fishing port.

Cerro Jaboncillo Archeological Site

The Cerro Jaboncillo archeological site allows guests to observe and comprehend the distinct and complex society in the area that was established between 900 and 1500 AD.

  • Discover a region rich in pre-Hispanic history and cultural heritage.
  • Visit a unique archeological site that allows guests to observe a distinct and complex pre-Hispanic society.
  • Observe variety of plants in the natural area around the archeological site.
  • Enjoy the beautiful landscape from the Cerro Jaboncillo site viewpoint.

  • Difficulty level

    Level 3: Active - good mobility needed

  • Duration

    4hr

  • Max. passengers

    80

  • Booking Code

    A-MEC6

  • From

    $ 105

  • Notices

    Guests are recommended to wear comfortable light clothing, hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. They should bring bug spray and comfortable walking shoes with quality soles. Camera and binoculars, if possible

Our tour today begins with a drive along Manta’s ‘malecón’ (promenade). Our guide will enlighten us on the area’s history, which was home to pre-Columbian peoples such as the Valdivia culture, whose pottery fragments are the oldest found anywhere in South America. The Cerro Jaboncillo archeological site allows guests to observe the distinct and complex society established in the area between 900 and 1500 AD. This developed society controlled large areas of the Guayas and Manabi provinces in Ecuador. The Cancebí-Manteños developed highly sophisticated societal practices and their mastery seaside territory allowed their culture to expand to the California Gulf, Mexico, Chile, and Peru. This place mixes culture, tourism, and nature. Located on the eastern slope of Cerro Jaboncillo, the area around the archeological site features a variety of plants and animals that survive in a unique ecosystem dependent on water cycles, especially in the summer fog. Enjoy a refreshment at the site museum before returning to the ship.

Practical information:

  • Language: English (French and German at extra cost)

  • Included: 1 x 500 ml bottle of water per person on the bus Included snack: 1 bag of chips, 1 ration of fruit, 1 juice box, 1 granola or chocolate bar.

  • Remarks/requirements: Guests are recommended to wear comfortable light clothing, hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. They should bring bug spray and comfortable walking shoes with quality soles. Camera and binoculars, if possible

  • Walking information: 1 mile. Terrain: Uneven, steep surfaces and steps Trails can be very muddy and wet, especially during rainy season (December to May) and they cover uneven and hilly terrain. There are more than 60 improvised steps to climb up and down.

  • Wheelchair accessible: No.