Puerto Lopez, Ecuador

Although not the most attractive or tidy town in Ecuador, Puerto Lopez has a fantastic setting tucked into a curved, sandy bay. With the Machachilla National Park right on the doorstep, there's little to keep you in the town and plenty to draw you away to the cleaner, quieter beaches and hardwood forests.

Probably the highlight of the national park is Isla De La Plata, also known as the poor man's Galapagos. Don't expect it to literally compare to the Galapagos islands or you'll be disappointed. The wildlife sightings are good though and Albatross, Boobies, sea lions an turtles can be spotted. During July and August, there are daily sighting of migrating whales to be seen off shore too. Tours leave regularly from Puerto Lopez and spend a full day on the island where you take a guided walk around to learn about the native animal species and how the island got it's name.

Isla de la Plata or Island of Silver is the site near which a pirate ship sunk, plunging it's cargo of Bolivian silver to the bottom of the ocean.

Diving excursions are also available from town as are trips on local fishing boats during the wale watching season.

Hostels...
Hosteria Itapoa
North end of the Malecón
Tel: 09 314 5894

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Hostal Maxima
Gonzalez Suarez y Av. Macalilla
Tel: 09 056 1950
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Finca Punta Ayampe
Ayampe
15km outside of Puerto Lopez
Tel: 04 278 0616

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You might need...
Restaurante Bellitalia - Once close to the restaurant 'Bellitalia', the fresh garlic smell leads you the rest of way into a beautiful garden with plants, wooden tables and a candle-light atmosphere. Delicious pasta with specials gives you the spirit of Italy in every bite - well expressed through the friendly owner (originally from Modena) and his friendly staff.
Whale Cafe - Located next to the beach is the beautifully set up 'Whale Cafe', offers a tranquil atmosphere, a great variety of good fresh breakfast, snacks, meals and drinks, and free tourist info...what more could you ask for? In addition to this, they also have a large and well organized book exchange.








photos
Photos by: Matthew Scowcroft & Nina & Matthew Horn
Tours...
Many of the companies offering tours to Isla de La Plata don't have licenses and therefore don't necessarily follow the set regulations. Best to make sure before hand.
Machalilla Tours
Ave. Malecón Julio Izurieta
Tel: 04 278 0616

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Islas Tours
1 1/2 blocks from the beach
Puerto Lopez
Tel: 05 230 0201

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Excursiones Pacifico S.A
Based at Hotel Pacifico
Puerto Lopez
Tel: 05 262 6250

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