By Air

Machala has a small airport which currently has no commercial flights (IATA location identifier: MCH).In the past there have been flights to Guayaquil and Quito with Ecuadorian airline TAME.

By Ferries

The city serves as a stopping-off point on the way to nearby Puerto Bolivar and the Jambeli Islands, which can only be reached by ferry.

Museo Arqueologico

The Museo Arqueologico exhibits artifacts from the Valdivia, Jambeli, Machalilla, Guangala, and Quevedo cultures.The Museo Marino displays the exotic flora and fauna of the Orense region.The Pinacoteca features free exhibitions of the work of Ecuadorian and international artists and the Museo Paleontologico exhibits the scientific findings of the Patrimonio Cultural de Ecuador.

Agricultural Festival

This festival is held during the third week of September and features huge fruit markets, commercial celebrations, and the culminating election of the Reina del Banano, the Banana Queen.This esteemed matriarch is elected from a pool of contestants from all over Latin America.This is a huge celebration, with Ecuadorians and foreign travelers alike meeting to rejoice in Machala’s agricultural livelihood.Make sure to book hotels well in advance should you decide to come partake in the festivities.

Juan Montalvo Park

It is a great place to take a walk or sit on a bench and watch the city’s pulse throb.At the head of Juan Montalvo Park is the Paseo de la Merced and the Cathedral.Also downtown is the Paseo Cultural Diego Minuche Garrido.This street was renovated and rejuvenated by the Ecuadorian government and now features pedestrian only walkways with fountains, art, and street performers.

Jambeli Beach

The Jambeli Beaches are frequented by Ecuadorians on vacation and offer a great way to take in the sun, surf, and local culture. Motor boats leave from Puerto Bolivar on a scenic trip around the mangroves or through to the Jambeli Beaches at 9:00, 12:00, 15:00, 17:00.They return one hour later.These rides usually cost between one and three dollars per person but group rates are also available.The Jambeli Beaches also have basic restaurants and hotels should you decide to extend your visit.

December - May
June - September

Information not available

Advertisement