Whale Watching

Puerto Lopez is a small fishing village in the south of the province of Manabí.

There are many tour operators here that offer safe whale watching tours at low prices.

But there are also other locations that are becoming popular for whale encounters in Ecuador, these are the beaches of: Salinas, Manta, Tonsupa y Atacames.

July, August and September are ideal months to observe these amazing marine colossus. During these times, rich upwelling's and nutrients come up to surface waters and the whales take advantage of that.

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Isla de la Plata

Is another great spot for whale watching in Ecuador. This small Island is located only 17 miles off the coast and is home to many similar species to those of its world famous cousin.

Its name in English Silver Island is derived from the legend that Sir Francis Drake buried treasure there.

Isla de la Plata is part of the Ecuador's Machalilla National Park. Renowned for its abundant and exotic wildlife, exquisite unspoiled beaches and rich historical past, it will offer you fantastic adventures.

Humpback whales or Megaptera novaeangliae have a huge body size where some females reach up to 15 meters (49,2 ft) and 30 to 40 tons of weight.

They get their common name after their appearance when the animal makes a dive and arches its back and fin.



Their movements and splashing jumps in the water, make the humpback whales the easiest to observe. They feed exclusively during the summer and live on their fat reserves during the winter.

Krill and some small schools of fish are part of their diet. Being great migratory animals, they cover over 25.000 kilometers (15.534 miles), a world record for mammals.

Some areas in the Polar Region are feeding grounds and some areas in the Equatorial Region are breeding grounds, as is the case of Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands.

Whale watching in Ecuador has become an increasingly popular activity.

The presence of humpback whales off the Ecuadorian coast, especially in the Machalilla National Park is one of the best Tourist Attractions in Ecuador during this period of the year.

Humpback whales migrate from the Antarctic (South Pole) to tropical waters to mate and give birth to their calves during the austral winter (June-September).

These whales look for Ecuadorian waters to breed because the calves need to be born in a warm environment since are born with a thin isolating layer.

Cruising through the sea with the grace of angels and effortlessly taking momentary flight with the dexterity and eloquence of a ballerina.

These remarkably beautiful creatures perform a majestic dance just meters from the boatload of delighted visitors who silently witness the performance in awe.

Whale watching in Ecuador is an impressive experience as you see them cut through the waves and surf within a short distance from your boat.

It would be easy to think that the mate they have come in search of is on board and not already at their side.

However, these amazing animals, some of the most noble, beautiful, and impressive on Earth have come to Ecuador in search of their own, the great humpback whale.

Humpbacks whales are also renowned for their vocal performances. Chirrups, snores, purrs and haunting moans are all emitted by solitary males eager to use their chat up techniques on a prospective mating partner.

The humpbacks whales that regularly visit the Galapagos Islands and Ecuador belong to the group living in southern, Antarctic waters.

These Humpbacks are slightly larger that their northern counterparts, and never interact with them as their seasons are opposite to each other.

Whale watching in Ecuador will not only leave lifetime memories, but help scientist keep records of whales, by identifying fingerprint markings on body parts like flukes or dorsal fins.

You will also have wonderful whale watching encounters around the Galapagos Archipelago, particularly on Bartolome Island and Espanola Island where these amazing creatures and their calves can be spotted.

Whale watching in Ecuador is definitely an exciting experience that will last in your memories for a long time.

Ecuador Recommended Reading:

Insight Guide Ecuador (Insight Guides Ecuador)
From the most popular resort cities to the most exotic villages, Insight Guides capture the unique character of each culture with an insider's perspective. A comprehensive Travel Tips section with listings of the best restaurants, hotels, and attractions, as well as practical information on getting around and advice for travel with children. (Highly recommended)

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