Puerto Lopez serves as Ecuador’s prime whale-watching hub, with tours running daily during peak season (June-September). The two main options – La Plata Island and Machalilla National Park routes – offer reliable sightings of humpback whales, often with calves in tow. Both half-day trips include experienced guides and essential gear.
We particularly like the La Plata Island tour for its combination of whale encounters and excellent snorkeling spots, where you’ll often see sea turtles and tropical fish. The Machalilla Park route earns high marks for its more intimate whale encounters and typically smaller group sizes.
Tours cost from $105 per person, including transport from town, light snacks, and equipment. Book through your hotel or local operators – they’re all required to follow the same safety standards.
These are our favorite whale watching experiences in Puerto Lopez:
Good To Know
The Whale Watching Tour and Visit to Isla De La Plata offers a comprehensive experience, including brunch, a guide, and snorkeling equipment to explore the Machalilla National Park.
The Snorkeling Tour and Whales Watching in Machalilla National Park provides a 1-day adventure with a professional guide, motor boat transportation, and snorkeling equipment to observe marine life and search for whales.
The Diving Tour to La Plata Island and Whales Watching, led by a bilingual instructor and guide, offers the opportunity to encounter a diverse array of marine life and potentially spot humpback whales.
The Tour to La Plata Island and Whales Watching includes a bilingual guide, box lunch, and transportation via motor boat, allowing visitors to explore the island’s marine life through snorkeling.
All tours provide transportation from the Puerto Lopez pier and accommodate up to 15 travelers, ensuring a personalized and intimate whale watching experience.
Tour to La Plata Island and Whales Watching
Although the tour to La Plata Island and whale watching takes place in the scenic coastal town of Puerto Lopez, Ecuador, it’s conveniently accessible from the Machalilla Tours Office located along the Malecon Julio Izurieta and Eloy Alfaro.
The 6-hour tour, which begins at 9:00 am, includes a bilingual guide, a box lunch, and transportation via motor boat. Snorkeling equipment is also provided, allowing visitors to explore the island’s marine life. The tour is priced at $105 per person and has a minimum of 2 participants, with a maximum of 15 travelers.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it only requires a moderate level of physical fitness. Travelers can rest assured that their experience is backed by a lowest price guarantee, and tips are included in the overall cost. This budget-friendly tour offers an opportunity to witness the majestic whales and discover the natural beauty of La Plata Island.
Read our full review: Tour to La Plata Island and Whales Watching Review
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Snorkeling Tour and Whales Watching – Machalilla National Park
The Machalilla National Park boasts a snorkeling tour and whale watching excursion that takes visitors on a captivating 1-day adventure. This tour, limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, promises an immersive experience with a professional guide, motor boat transportation, and the use of high-quality snorkeling equipment. Guests can expect to be treated to snacks on board as they explore the park’s diverse marine life and keep an eye out for the majestic whales.
The tour departs from the Puerto Lopez pier at 10:00 am, with transfers to and from the meeting point included. While lunch and personal expenses aren’t covered, the tour offers excellent value, with a moderate fitness level required. Visitors should come prepared with appropriate attire, including a coat or wind jacket, comfortable shoes, and sun protection. With confirmation provided at the time of booking, this snorkeling and whale watching experience is a must-do for anyone visiting the Machalilla National Park.
Read our full review: Snorkeling Tour and Whales Watching – Machalilla National Park Review
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Whale Watching Tour and Visit to Isla De La Plata
Typically, the whale watching tour and visit to Isla de la Plata depart from the Puerto Lopez pier at 9:00 am. Provided by Coastal Wonders Tours, the tour includes brunch, a guide, and the use of snorkeling equipment. Travelers will explore the Machalilla National Park aboard a motor boat, keeping an eye out for whales along the way.
Upon reaching Isla de la Plata, often referred to as the “Poor Man’s Galapagos,” visitors can snorkel and explore the island’s unique ecosystem. The tour isn’t recommended for those with back problems, heart conditions, or other serious medical issues, as it requires a moderate level of physical fitness.
With a maximum of 25 travelers, the tour offers a personalized experience. Guests can secure their spot with a Reserve Now and Pay Later option, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour. This whale watching and island exploration experience provides an affordable and memorable way to discover the natural wonders of the Ecuadorian coast.
Read our full review: Whale Watching Tour and Visit to Isla De La Plata Review
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Diving Tour to La Plata Island and Whales Watching
For those seeking an immersive experience exploring the natural wonders of Ecuador’s coast, the Diving Tour to La Plata Island and Whales Watching offers an unparalleled opportunity. Departing from Puerto Lopez, this all-inclusive tour whisks travelers to the stunning La Plata Island for a day of diving and whale watching.
Led by a bilingual instructor and guide, the tour includes round-trip transfers, a motor boat, and a delicious lunch. Guests can expect to encounter a diverse array of marine life while diving, as well as the possibility of spotting humpback whales during the whale watching portion. With a minimum of 3 people required to operate, this tour ensures an intimate and personalized experience for up to 15 travelers.
Though the tour is non-refundable, it provides an unmatched chance to take in Ecuador’s natural beauty. Moderate physical fitness is required, but the memories made will undoubtedly be worth the effort.
Read our full review: Diving Tour to La Plata Island and Whales Watching Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Puerto Lopez offers some of the best whale watching experiences in Ecuador. Visitors can choose from a variety of tours, including trips to La Plata Island, snorkeling in Machalilla National Park, and diving excursions. These tours provide opportunities to spot whales in their natural habitat and learn about the region’s marine life. Whether you’re on a budget or looking for a more luxurious experience, there’s an option to suit your needs.