Things To Do
in Portoviejo
Portoviejo is the capital city of the province of Manabí in Ecuador. It is known for its colonial architecture, including the beautiful Cathedral of Portoviejo. The city has a vibrant cultural scene and is home to various art galleries, museums, and theaters.
Portoviejo is also a commercial hub, with bustling markets offering a variety of goods and produce.
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hasta luego" - See you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Parque Central, a beautiful spot to enjoy nature. Grab a coffee from a local café and take in the morning sun.
Visit the Museo de Portoviejo to learn about the history and culture of the area. Enjoy a traditional Ecuadorian lunch at a nearby restaurant.
Stroll through the local markets and shop for handmade crafts. End your day with dinner at a cozy eatery, trying regional specialties.
Head out early to Lomas de Sargentillo for a hike amidst stunning greenery. Enjoy the views and the peaceful surroundings as you explore.
Pack a picnic and have lunch surrounded by nature after your hike. Spend some time relaxing and taking photos of the scenic landscape.
Return to Portoviejo and unwind at a local café. Enjoy a light dinner featuring fresh ingredients and local flavors.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with vibrant festivals and traditions.
- Beautiful natural surroundings including nearby beaches and mountains.
- Affordable cost of living compared to many other cities.
- Friendly and welcoming local community.
- Access to fresh local produce and traditional cuisine.
- Limited infrastructure and public transportation options.
- Occasional issues with crime and safety concerns.
- Economic opportunities may be limited in certain sectors.
- Vulnerability to natural disasters such as earthquakes.
- Access to quality healthcare facilities may vary.
Best Activities in Portoviejo
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Visit nearby beaches like Crucita, San Jacinto, and San Clemente for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
Take a boat tour from nearby areas like Puerto Lopez to witness the breathtaking sight of humpback whales during their migration season.
Explore the surrounding areas such as the Pacoche Wildlife Reserve and the hills of nearby towns for beautiful nature trails and wildlife sightings.
Tours
Uncover the best of Portoviejo with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Portoviejo
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the surrounding area, including Portoviejo.
A scenic boardwalk by the river with views of the city and landmarks.
Wind farm with sweeping views of the countryside and coast.
A beautiful beach with stunning views, about 40 minutes from Portoviejo.
Coastal town nearby with beautiful views of the ocean and surrounding landscapes.
Food in Portoviejo
Portoviejo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try dish made with fresh fish marinated in lime juice, onions, tomatoes, and sweet peppers, served with crispy plantain chips. Enjoy authentic Ceviche Manabita at local seafood restaurants like El Sabor Manabita.
Must-Try!
This hearty fish soup, enriched with yuca, onions, and a variety of spices, is a beloved local favorite. Visit La Casa del Encebollado for a truly authentic experience.
A delicious green plantain dumpling typically stuffed with cheese, pork, or chicharrón. Sample this at El Rinconcito Manabita for an authentic taste.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Portoviejo better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore this bustling market for an array of fresh fruits, vegetables, and local delicacies. Taste delectable street food such as llapingachos (potato patties) and empanadas.
Stroll along the Malecón to discover various street food vendors serving up tantalizing treats like cevichochos (a fusion of ceviche and lupini beans) and traditional tamales.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Portoviejo, it is customary to greet people with a handshake and a warm smile, while using titles such as 'Señor' (Mr.) or 'Señora' (Mrs.) followed by the person’s last name.
Respecting elders and showing deference to older individuals is highly valued in Portoviejo. This can include offering them a seat or deferring to their opinions in a group setting.
Family holds great significance in Portoviejo, and it is important to show respect for family members and to prioritize family time. Being mindful of family dynamics and expressing interest in others' families is appreciated.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Portoviejo with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Portoviejo
Ensure a smooth experience
In Portoviejo, Ecuador, it is customary to leave a 10-15% tip at restaurants if the service charge is not included. Tipping for other services, such as taxi rides and hotel staff, is not expected but appreciated.
Cash is the most commonly used form of payment in Portoviejo, though larger establishments may accept credit cards. It's important to carry small bills and coins as change may not always be readily available.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Portoviejo.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Portoviejo as the weather is typically sunny and rainfall is minimal. Ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city.
Expect higher temperatures and increased rainfall during this season. It's a good time for nature enthusiasts to experience the lush greenery, but outdoor activities may be limited due to the rain.
Portoviejo at Night
Hiking in Portoviejo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A national park that offers diverse hiking trails through tropical dry forests, coastal areas, and waterfalls with beautiful views.
A popular hiking destination near Portoviejo, known for its scenic views and birdwatching opportunities.
This area features various hiking paths that lead to striking viewpoints and allow visitors to explore the local flora and fauna.
A river valley offering trails that follow the river, providing a mix of hiking and opportunities for water activities.
A challenging hike that rewards adventurers with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and wildlife.
Aiports
How to reach Portoviejo by plane.
Located in Guayaquil, approximately 170 km southwest of Portoviejo, this airport serves as a major hub for international flights in Ecuador.
Situated in Manta, about 50 km southwest of Portoviejo, this airport offers various domestic and some international flights.
Located in Quito, approximately 350 km to the east of Portoviejo, this is one of the largest international airports in Ecuador, serving numerous international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group, comprising a mix of Indigenous and Spanish ancestry.
Several groups, including the Chachi and Tsachila, who maintain their cultural practices.
People of African descent, with a rich cultural heritage and history in Ecuador.
Primarily descendants of Spanish colonizers and other European immigrants.
A growing community of foreign nationals, including North Americans and Europeans.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Portoviejo, played by numerous local clubs and supported by passionate fans.
A popular sport in local schools and communities, with many tournaments held throughout the year.
Gaining popularity in recent years, basketball is played in schools and local leagues, attracting many youth.
A traditional sport in Ecuador, baseball has a following in Portoviejo, with local teams competing in regional leagues.
Cycling events and recreational riding are common, with local cyclists participating in competitions and community rides.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Portoviejo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Ecuadorian cuisine typically features meat and seafood, many restaurants in Portoviejo offer vegetarian variations of local dishes like stuffed plantains or vegetable ceviche. Check out El Jardín Secreto for a delightful array of vegetarian and vegan choices.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can savor dishes like grilled fish with rice and steamed vegetables, or opt for fruit-based snacks available at most food markets in the city. La Hacienda Grill is known for its wide range of gluten-free options.