Español
Pacoche Marine Coastal Wildlife Refuge: forest, coast and biodiversity in Manabí
Located between Manta and San Lorenzo in the province of Manabí, the Pacoche Marine Coastal Wildlife Refuge is one of the few places in Ecuador where tropical humid forest, pristine beaches and marine routes converge in a single destination. Covering more than 5,000 hectares, this protected area offers a perfect mix of ecotourism, biodiversity and coastal scenery.
The humid forest of Pacoche is home to the iconic howler monkey, a species often seen along guided trails. The refuge also shelters more than 200 bird species, including toucans, woodcreepers and coastal hummingbirds, making it an excellent spot for wildlife observation and nature photography.
The pathways throughout the refuge pass through ravines, dense vegetation and panoramic viewpoints, where visitors can observe medicinal plants, giant trees and ferns. Popular trails include the Monkey Trail and the Lighthouse Trail, both ideal for environmental education and photography.
The marine area of Pacoche is equally important. Between June and October, the coast becomes the stage for the migration of humpback whales, which arrive in Ecuadorian waters to breed. From nearby beaches or authorized tours, visitors can watch these magnificent cetaceans up close, making Pacoche one of the top whale-watching destinations in the country.
Nearby beaches such as San Lorenzo and Ligüiqui offer peaceful spaces for walking, enjoying the scenery and interacting with coastal communities that preserve ancestral fishing traditions.
Visiting the Pacoche Marine Coastal Wildlife Refuge means exploring a unique mixed ecosystem in Ecuador, where wildlife, humid forest and the Pacific Ocean come together to offer an experience of adventure, learning and nature along the coast of Manabí.