MANTA, ECUADOR

The brightly painted “Chivas” bus is the most important means of transportation used by the local people of Manta. They criss-cross the country, offering reasonably priced transportation between the towns along the coast and interior sections of Ecuador.

The brightly painted “Chivas” bus is the most important means of transportation used by the local people of Manta. They criss-cross the country, offering reasonably priced transportation between the towns along the coast and interior sections of Ecuador. Most will know a “Chivas” because of the small ceramic models sold in craft stores that are typically depicted overflowing with produce, suitcases and the odd basket of chickens tied to the top. On our tour a local band will ride atop one of the buses as we set off in a convoy for a short ride to fascinating Montecristi. This old Colonial City still retains the atmosphere and faded elegance of its Spanish heritage. We will stop by a picturesque blue and white painted wooden building, which once served as the first girls’ school in Ecuador. This rustic building, with its adobe walls and wonderful well-worn wooden floors now holds a cornucopia of artisan stalls selling straw baskets, jewellery and other colourful handicrafts. Here we can see Panama hats being woven. While in the city, take a walk around the central square of Montecristi or stroll down one of the narrow streets for additional shopping opportunities. Please note that the “Chivas” is a local form of transportation, and though great fun has a high step to enter, wooden seats, no public address system and is not air-conditioned. This tour is basically a transfer to Montecristi. Once in town, guests are free to venture about and explore on their own.

DESCRIPTION CORRECT FOR 2008 SOUTH AMERICA CRUISE