Manta is one of Ecuador's major port blending colourful fishing villages, unspoilt beaches and the unusual tropical dry forest of the Machalilla National Park. Of particular interest is nearby Montecristi, founded in the early 1600's - a pretty town of colonial architecture and which is best known for its weaving wickerwork and as the birthplace of the famous 'Panama hat'. Make time to shop for local craft or visit the Archaeological Museum which features pre-Columbian artefacts left by the Manta culture.