Each of these full-day tours around Guayaquil packs a powerful punch for travelers seeking authentic Ecuadorian experiences. My favorite stops showcase nature at its finest: the Churute Ecological Reserve‘s pristine mangroves and working cacao farms offer a perfect blend of wilderness and agriculture. For a taste of the Galapagos without the hefty price tag, Isla de La Plata delivers remarkable bird watching and snorkeling opportunities. Nature lovers shouldn’t miss the Mangrove Forest and Dolphin Watching tour – it’s the real deal, with reliable dolphin sightings and expert local guides. The chocolate farm tours are a special treat, letting you taste your way through Ecuador’s famous cacao production. Let’s check out the best full-day tours that consistently wow visitors.
Good To Know
- The Mangroves, Dolphins, and Cocoa Farm tour offers a comprehensive full-day experience in Guayaquil, including hotel pickup, lunch, and private transport.
- The Isla de La Plata "Poor Man’s Galapagos" tour provides a budget-friendly alternative to the Galapagos Islands, featuring bird watching, snorkeling, and hiking.
- The Ecological Reserve Churute tour includes transportation, a multilingual guide, and a boat ride, offering a diverse range of natural experiences.
- The Churute Mangroves Reserve Tour features a three-course lunch at a local hacienda, hotel pickup/drop-off, and a bilingual guide.
- The Ecological Reserve Churute Mangrove & Cacao Farm tour combines wildlife spotting with a visit to a cocoa plantation, including hotel pick-up and multilingual guide.
Full Day Tour Mangroves, Dolphins and Cocoa Farm From Guayaquil
This full-day tour from Guayaquil provides an immersive exploration of coastal Ecuador’s natural wonders.
Departing at 8:30 AM, you’ll visit a tropical plantation to learn about artisan chocolate making.
In the afternoon, you’ll take a boat ride in Puerto del Morro to spot bottlenose dolphins and migratory seabirds.
With free time at the beach, this tour offers a well-rounded experience.
Inclusive of hotel pickup, private transportation, lunch, and a driver/guide, the tour is priced at €216.57 per person, varying by group size.
While most travelers can join, the experience isn’t wheelchair accessible.
With a 4.5-star rating from 13 reviews, this tour showcases Ecuador’s often overlooked coastal region.
Full Day Isla De La Plata Sunshine Route (Departing From Guayaquil)
Departing early from Guayaquil, this full-day tour takes adventurers to the stunning Isla de La Plata, often referred to as the "Poor Man’s Galapagos."
Operated by Yamil Saman Cabrera, the excursion promises an immersive exploration of this Pacific island’s rich biodiversity.
With private air-conditioned transportation, knowledgeable guides, and a range of activities like bird watching, snorkeling, and hiking, the tour offers a personalized experience.
Though moderate fitness is required, the opportunity to see blue-footed boobies, giant turtles, and other marine life makes this an attractive alternative to the Galapagos for those short on time and budget.
At $485 per person, it’s a well-reviewed and highly recommended way to discover the natural wonders of Ecuador.
Full Day to Ecological Reserve Churute Mangrove and Cocoa Farm Visit
A full-day tour from Guayaquil takes adventurers to the Ecological Reserve Churute Mangrove and a cocoa farm. Priced from $370 per person, the tour includes transportation, a multilingual guide, and a boat ride on the reserve’s river.
Travelers can expect a walking tour on the sendero and lunch at Hacienda Cacao. The tour is suitable for most, though not wheelchair accessible. Suggested items include a hat, sunblock, comfortable shoes, and mosquito repellent.
Confirmation is provided at booking, with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior. The tour operates in all weather conditions, with a maximum of 10 participants and an 8:30 am start time.
Full Day : Forest and the Fisherman Trail (From Guayaquil)
Guayaquil visitors can embark on a captivating full-day tour that explores the Forest and the Fisherman Trail. This 7-hour experience allows travelers to enjoy Ecuador’s biodiversity without visiting the Galapagos Islands.
The tour includes air-conditioned roundtrip transportation from Guayaquil hotels or the airport, along with a private vehicle and driver/guide. Participants can expect to encounter diverse wildlife, such as howler monkeys and over 300 species in a nature reserve.
The tour also includes a visit to a cocoa plantation to learn about the chocolate-making process and a delicious lunch. Although not wheelchair-accessible, the tour is suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness.
Full Day Tour, Isla Salango Snorkel, Seabirds (Departure From Guayaquil)
Travelers can escape the city’s hustle and bustle on this full-day tour that sails along the Pacific coast to explore Isla Salango and Machalilla National Park.
Led by a naturalist guide, the private tour offers opportunities to identify local wildlife like blue-footed boobies and frigatebirds, as well as go snorkeling in crystal-clear waters.
Guests can also take in scenic views from the El Rocio viewpoint in Machalilla National Park.
The tour includes private transportation, snorkeling gear, breakfast, snacks, and bottled water, along with entrance tickets and tips.
Pickup is available from Guayaquil hotels and the airport, with a start time of 8:30 am.
The tour is priced from $300 per person.
Full Day at Hacienda Cacaoymango and Vanilla Greenhouse.
Set out on a captivating full-day exploration of Hacienda Cacaoymango and a vanilla greenhouse, where travelers can enjoy the rich agricultural heritage of the region.
This private tour offers a comprehensive experience, including private transportation, a bilingual guide, and a three-course lunch. Guests can savor a welcome drink upon arrival and enjoy the flexibility of coordinating their pickup time.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it accommodates strollers and service animals. With a 5.0 rating based on reviews, this tour provides an opportunity to discover the production of cacao and vanilla in an intimate setting.
Full Day Chimborazo Volcano & Balbanera’s Church From Guayaquil
This full-day excursion from Guayaquil takes adventurous travelers on a captivating journey to the majestic Chimborazo Volcano and the historic Balbanera’s Church.
Operated by Perfect Destiny, the tour offers a maximum of 15 travelers the chance to explore these remarkable sites. Highlights include a scenic 5-hour drive, a challenging climb from 4800m to 5000m, and incredible views at the second refuge.
The tour includes transportation, a professional multilingual guide, hotel pick-up and drop-off, entrance fees, lunch, and gratuities.
With confirmation received at booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours before, this tour is a must-consider for those seeking a memorable full-day adventure in Guayaquil.
Full Day to Ecological Reserve Churute Mangrove
Visitors explore the captivating Ecological Reserve Churute Mangrove on this full-day tour from Guayaquil. Priced at SEK 3,081.04 per person, the tour accommodates up to 15 travelers and includes transportation, a professional multilingual guide, and all gratuities.
The experience features walking on the trail and boating on the river within the reserve. Guests should bring a hat, sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and mosquito repellent, as the tour operates rain or shine.
Positive reviews highlight the driver’s expertise and the overall quality of the tour, with one visitor noting the opportunity to see wildlife and visit the Guayaquil countryside.
Full Day Ayangue Tour With Snorkeling in the Pelados Islote
Venture on a captivating full-day tour to Ayangue, where you’ll have the chance to snorkel in the mesmerizing Pelados Islote. Priced from $289 per person, this private tour includes hotel pickup, a professional multilingual guide, snorkeling equipment, and lunch.
Spend the day exploring the scenic coastal region, enjoying the underwater world. While wet suits aren’t included, you can rent them separately.
The tour operates rain or shine, so remember to dress appropriately. With a 5-star rating and free cancellation, this Ayangue adventure offers a fantastic opportunity to discover Ecuador’s natural wonders.
Full Day Zhagal Thermal Baths Tour From Guayaquil
Set out on a captivating full-day venture to the Zhagal Thermal Baths from Guayaquil.
This 5-star rated tour includes transportation, a professional multilingual guide, and a delectable lunch.
Pickup is available from your hotel or a designated meeting point, and the activity ends back at the same location.
Wear comfortable walking shoes and don’t forget sun protection.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but most travelers can participate.
Priced at $258 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a pay-later option, this is an experience you won’t want to miss.
Unlock the rejuvenating powers of the Zhagal Thermal Baths and learn about the beauty of Ecuador.
Full Day Private Churute Mangroves Reserve and Cocoa Farm Tour
Discover the captivating Churute Mangroves Reserve and a renowned cocoa farm on this full-day private tour from Guayaquil.
This private tour, priced from $255 per person, offers a comprehensive experience with hotel pickup and drop-off, a bilingual guide, and transfers to all attractions.
Indulge in a three-course lunch at a local hacienda and enjoy complimentary hydrating drinks throughout the day.
With a 5.0 rating based on 1 review, this tour is perfect for travelers seeking an immersive adventure.
Confirmed at booking, the tour runs from 8/30/2023 to 9/15/2025, Monday through Sunday, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Explore the mangroves, learn about cocoa production, and create lasting memories on this exclusive Guayaquil excursion.
Full Day to Ecological Reserve Churute Mangrove and Cacao Farm Visit
Visitors to Guayaquil can enjoy the captivating ecosystem of the Ecological Reserve Churute Mangrove and the rich culture of a local cacao farm on this comprehensive full-day tour.
Priced from $370 per person, the tour includes hotel pick-up, a professional multilingual guide, and boat travel within the reserve to spot wildlife like howler monkeys and birds.
Guests will also visit a cacao farm, enjoy a tasty lunch, and learn about chocolate-making. With a maximum group size of 15, this tour offers a personalized experience.
Comfortable clothing and mosquito repellent are recommended, as the tour operates rain or shine.
Full Day of Bird Watching in Guayaquil
For bird enthusiasts, a full day of bird watching in Guayaquil offers a chance to explore the city’s diverse avian population.
This private tour provides transportation, brunch, and an expert guide to lead the way. The tour starts at 8:30 am, with pickup from the arrival point.
Priced at $250 for up to 3 people, the tour is subject to availability and can be rescheduled or canceled up to 24 hours in advance.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is near public transportation. Moderate physical fitness is required, and it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with heart problems.
Booking early is advised to secure availability.
Full Day Bucay With Nueva Esperanza Waterfall Visit From Guayaquil
On this full-day tour from Guayaquil, travelers will explore the charming town of Bucay and witness the stunning Nueva Esperanza Waterfall.
The tour includes round-trip transportation, a professional multilingual guide, and a delicious lunch.
Pickup is available from hotels within Guayaquil’s urban perimeter, or travelers can meet at the designated location.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most participants can join.
Recommended items include a hat, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes.
The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dressing appropriately is essential.
Prices start at $272 per person and can be booked with a reservation and pay-later option, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
Full Day Quilotoa Lagoon Visit From Guayaquil
Travelers venturing from Guayaquil can discover the stunning Quilotoa Lagoon, a collapsed volcano nestled in the western Ecuadorian Andes. This off-the-beaten-path attraction offers panoramic views from wooden lookout platforms.
The trek to the lagoon takes 20-30 minutes over steep, sandy terrain, with the return trip being more challenging due to the high altitude. Included in the tour is a typical Ecuadorian lunch and an optional kayak activity.
Departing at 2:00 am, the full-day tour provides transportation and a professional guide, with hotel pick-up and drop-off within Guayaquil’s urban perimeter. Priced from $366 per person, the tour operates in all weather conditions and can accommodate up to 15 travelers.
The Sum Up
Guayaquil offers a variety of full-day tours that showcase the region’s natural wonders. From mangrove swamps and dolphin-watching to cocoa farms and birdwatching, there’s something for every interest. Visitors can explore the stunning Churute Mangrove Reserve, visit the idyllic Isla de la Plata, or venture to the Quilotoa Lagoon. With so many options, travelers can easily find a tour that suits their preferences and provides an unforgettable experience.