population: 0.22 million
extension: 11.27 square kilometers
If you're in Manta, Ecuador and looking to visit museums, you should check out the Museo del Banco Central. This museum has a variety of exhibits that showcase the history and culture of Ecuador, including pre-Columbian artifacts, colonial religious art, and contemporary art. If you're interested in similar museums, you may also want to visit the nearby cities of Guayaquil and Quito, both of which have many excellent museums, including the Museo Antropológico y de Arte Contemporáneo (MAAC) in Guayaquil and the Museo Nacional del Ecuador in Quito.
Some of the most recommended, popular, and typical dishes to eat in Manta, Ecuador according to local people are:
1. Encebollado: a flavorful fish soup made with onions, yucca, tomatoes, and cilantro. It's often served with popcorn on top.
2. Arroz con menestra y carne asada: rice with stewed beans and grilled beef. This is a hearty and filling dish that is often eaten for lunch.
3. Ceviche: raw fish marinated in lime juice, onions, and spices. In Manta, it's typically served with popcorn or corn nuts on top.
4. Churrasco: grilled steak served with rice, beans, and fried plantains. This is a classic Ecuadorian dish that you can find in many restaurants in Manta.
5. Bolón de verde: mashed green plantains stuffed with cheese or meat. This is a popular snack or breakfast food in Manta.
6. Corviche: a savory pastry filled with fish, onions, and spices. It's similar to an empanada but with a different dough made from mashed plantains.
7. Camarones al ajillo: shrimp sautéed in garlic and butter. This is a delicious seafood dish that is common in coastal regions like Manta.
These are just a few examples of the many delicious dishes you can try in Manta, Ecuador.
Sure, here are some fun activities that local people enjoy in Manta, Ecuador:
1. Surfing: Manta has some great beaches with good waves for surfing. You can rent a board and take a lesson if you're a beginner or join a surf trip to explore nearby surf spots.
2. Whale Watching: From June to September, you can go on a whale watching tour to see humpback whales that migrate to the area during these months.
3. Shopping at the Central Market: The Central Market in Manta is a popular spot for locals to shop for fresh produce, seafood, and handicrafts. You can stroll through the market and sample some of the local fruits, such as maracuya and papaya.
4. Visiting the San Mateo Beach: This beach is located just south of Manta and is a popular spot for locals to spend a day relaxing on the sand, swimming, and enjoying seafood at one of the many beachside restaurants.
5. Seeing the Sunset at Murciélago Beach: Murciélago Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Manta, and it's a great spot to watch the sunset over the Pacific Ocean. There are also many bars and restaurants along the beach where you can grab a drink and catch the sunset.