Traveling each year more than 7000 km from the cold waters of the Antarctic to the warmer waters of the Ecuadorian coast, humpback whales offer visitors and locals a unique show from June to September along the coastline, which can be enjoyed particularly in the province of Manabí. The humpback can be observed both alone and in groups of up to 8 individuals. Usually, these giant mammals can grow to a length of almost sixteen meters and reach a weight of over forty tons.

Arriving off the Ecuadorian coast, the whales pick a companion and proceed to mate. Because their young are born without a protective layer of fat, they would quickly perish if they were not born in tropical waters. Humpback whales display a spectacular mating ballet, rising out of the water looking almost weightless, and filling the ocean with romantic chants to court their partners. These mating rituals usually last for a few weeks, during which visitors can enjoy this miracle of nature in a peaceful environment. Not only whale watching is an exciting activity, it offers travelers from around the world an educational experience. During your visit, professional local guides provide the visitors with a complete explanation of the life cycle of these marine mammals and the conservation efforts being done for their survival.

Tour boat companies that offer whale watching usually leave from the town of Puerto Lopez in the region of Manabí. The Machalilla National Park is one of the best places on the Ecuadorian coast to go whale watching, especially around the “Isla de la Plata”, an island often compared to the Galapagos for its similar ecosystems and biological diversity. Boat operators we work with are all certified and safely equipped to ensure a comfortable journey, respecting the regulations of the national park and whale watching activity.

Ecuador offers humpback whales a totally safe and protected environment, making whale watching an harmless and unforgettable experience. With issues such as whale hunting and global warming, these giant ocean mammals are becoming more endangered every day, and witnessing their innocence and freedom in a peaceful place will remind every traveler of the importance of nature’s preservation. Any traveler visiting Ecuador during the months of June to September should plan a whale watching experience in their itinerary.