Whale Watching Day Tour
Get up close and personal with the world's most incredible marine mammals in Machalilla National Park.
Witness the Spectacular Annual Migration of Humpback Whales in Puerto Lopez, Ecuador
From June to October each year, the shores of Ecuador welcome the majestic humpback whales, who migrate from the Antarctic to mate and breed in the warm waters of Puerto Lopez. With our exclusive whale watching tour, you can witness the incredible spectacle of these gentle giants as they perform acrobatic displays and sing their haunting songs.
As you sail along the picturesque coastline of Puerto Lopez, our knowledgeable guides will provide you with fascinating insights into the behavior and biology of these magnificent creatures. You’ll learn about the complex social interactions of these highly intelligent animals, and the importance of conservation efforts to protect their habitat.
Don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime experience to witness the annual migration of humpback whales in Puerto Lopez, Ecuador.
What makes Whale Watching in Puerto Lopez so special?
Puerto Lopez is known as the ‘Whale’s Nursery’ due to the high concentration of humpback whales that come to mate and give birth in its calm waters. Our tour provides the perfect opportunity to witness this magical event up close and personal, with the chance to see mothers nursing their calves and males vying for the attention of potential mates.
Itinerary
11:00 – Departure from the agency to the tourist pier
11:30 – Whale watching
12:45 – Visit to Salango Island
13:00 – Snorkeling
13:30 – Return to port
*(approximate times)
Tour includes:
- Guide (Spanish or English)
- Snacks
- Snorkeling Kit
- All fees and transportation costs
- Boat with state-of-the-art security system
Whale Watching Rules:
- Boats must sail 100 meters from the whales or 200 meters if it is a mother and calf.
- No more than three boats with a group of whales.
- Remain seated on the boat.
- Keep your life jacket on at all times.
- Do not feed or shout at the whales.
- Do not touch the animals.
- Do not throw garbage or trash into the sea.
- Do not swim or dive with whales.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have a first-aid-kit and trained first-aid personnel?
Yes! Our boats have first-aid-kits on board in case of any emergency. All of our crew members is trained to offer immediate first-aid assistance during emergencies.
Where is Machalilla Tours located?
We are located in the town of Puerto Lopez in the province of Manabi, Ecuador. More specifically on Julio Izurieta and Alejo Lascano Boardwalk. Find us on Google Maps.
What languages do you speak?
We provide service in both, Spanish and English.
Do you offer activities inside the Machalilla National Park?
We count with all legal permits to operate and offer a variety of tours in the Machalilla National Park. In addition, we are one of only three scuba diving companies with the permit to dive in the area of Isla de la Plata. Find out more about our offers for scuba diving or explore our other options.
Can I leave my luggage at the office after checkin-out from my hotel?
Sure! You can leave your luggage in the office. Please contact us to arrange this.
Do I have to make my reservation in advance?
We strongly recommend to make your reservation in advance as the regulations of the Machalilla National Park restrict the maximum number of passengers per tour.
How can I make my reservation?
You can make your reservation through our contact form, by E-Mail, phone, WhatsApp, or visiting us in our office.
I have a dietary restriction. Can you accomodate for this?
Sure! In any case of dietary restrictions or allergies we will provide you with a personalized menu. Please mention your dietary restriction in your reservation!
Which activities do you recommend for families with children?
Many of our activities are suitable for families with children. Please get in contact with us, so we can arrange the perfect itinerary for you and your family.
I only have a few days in Puerto Lopez. Which tours do you recommend?
Our most popular tours are hiking or scuba diving on Isla de la Plata, Los Frailes/Agua Blanca, and a day tour to the tropical forest of San Sebastian.
What is your payment and cancellation policy?
In case of early reservations: 50% has to be deposited one month before the tour. The remaining 50% are due, 15 days before the tour.
In case of last minute offers (less than 15 days): 100% payment necessary at time of booking to reserve your spot.
Cancellations:
If you cancel 15 days before your first tour, we refund 100% of your payment (minus possible bank charges).
If you cancel between 14 days and 48 hours before your first tour, we refund 50% of your payment (minus possible bank charges).
For cancellations less than 48 hours before your first tour we cannot make any refund.
Do you provide discounts?
If you book multiple tours with us or book for a large group you can get in contact with us to check if you are eligible for a discount.
What methods of payment do you accept?
We accept cash payments, bank transfer and credit card payments.