population: 0.25 million

extension: 212.88 square kilometers

Museums

If you're in Machala, Ecuador and want to visit museums, a great place to start is the Museo Arqueológico de Machala (Machala Archaeological Museum), which showcases pre-Columbian artifacts from the region. Other nearby museums of similar type include the Museo Antropológico y de Arte Contemporáneo (Anthropological and Contemporary Art Museum) in Guayaquil and the Museo del Banco Central (Central Bank Museum) in Cuenca, both of which have extensive collections of indigenous art and cultural artifacts.

Food

Some of the most recommended and popular dishes to try in Machala, Ecuador according to local people are:

1. Encebollado: a hearty fish soup made with yuca, onions, and spices.

2. Arroz con menestra y carne asada: a dish featuring rice, lentils, and grilled meat.

3. Churrasco: a thinly sliced, grilled beef dish often served with rice, beans, and plantains.

4. Cangrejada: a seafood platter featuring crab cooked in a garlic sauce.

5. Seco de chivo or seco de res: a stew made with either goat or beef, potatoes, and peanut sauce.

6. Cevice de concha: a tangy seafood ceviche made with fresh clam meat and lime juice.

7. Bolón de verde: a fried ball of mashed green plantain stuffed with cheese or meat.

These are just a few examples of the delicious cuisine you can find in Machala, Ecuador.

Activities

There are several fun activities that locals enjoy in Machala, Ecuador. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Visit the Mercado Central de Machala: This is a bustling market where you can buy fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood, and other local products.

2. Go on a river tour: Take a boat ride along the Rio Jubones and enjoy the scenic beauty of the area.

3. Experience the nightlife: Machala has several bars and clubs where locals gather to dance and socialize.

4. Attend a festival: The city hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Carnaval de Machala in February and the Feria de la Fruta y la Ecología (Fruit and Ecology Fair) in November.

5. Enjoy the beaches: Machala is located near several beautiful beaches, such as Playa de San José and Playa de Puerto Bolívar, which are popular among locals for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.