Machalilla National Park from the Foundation for the Center for Whale Research

Puerto Lopez is located on the coast of Ecuador, 110 km from Manta. This small community is located in the heart of Machalilla National Park. The ride to Puerto Lopez, via bus is colorful. It costs $3 US dollars and takes around 3-4 hours. There is no such thing as "exact" time in Ecuador, for the ride will depend on how many stops the bus has to make to pick up or drop others off. This is the locals’ main mode of transportation and is used to come into and leave from Manta, Jipi-Japa and Montecristi.

The province of Manabí and the waters outside of it are extremely bio-diverse. Within Manabí can be found Machalilla National Park which encompasses close to 56,184 hectare, 14,430 of which is in the Pacific Ocean. Nearby are the islands of Salango and Isla de la Plata. The warm waters near Machalilla National Park and Puerto Lopez are home to a large whale stock migrating from Antarctica during their breeding season months (June-September). The waters and local area are teaming with other marine life such as manta rays and coral outcroppings. It has been noted that during the months of August through September, a large group of manta rays visit these waters.The Isla de la Plata is surrounded by coral reefs and provides prime bird watching during all seasons. Several species of dolphins such as the common or spotted are evident in the coastal waters as well.

To Contact Us:

The Foundation for Center for Research of Whales
8810 West Skagit, Kennewick, WA 99336
Dr. James Lehmann
Phone 1-509-240-5029
Email: edecuador@yahoo.com

Website created and maintained by A.NYC