Manta flights from London take 18-24 hours with one or two connections. The city is served by Eloy Alfaro International Airport (MEC), located about 3 miles from the centre.
Most flights connect through Quito, Guayaquil. Airlines like LATAM, Avianca, KLM and Iberia offer the best connections.
Return fares range from £520-750 in low season to £900-1,200 during peak periods. February-May / September-November typically offers the best deals.
Manta is in Ecuador. June to November (dry season, whale watching) is the best time to visit.
Price Patterns
Prices typically drop Tuesday/Wednesday for bookings
Last-minute deals can appear but aren't guaranteed
February-May / September-November offers the best value
Sweet spot
6-8 weeks before travel for best combination of availability and price.
Avoid Booking
Less than 2 weeks out (premium pricing)
During June-August / December-January unless necessary
School holiday periods if flexible
Beaches
Murciélago beach in the city, or head to Playa San Lorenzo for surfing. Los Frailes in Machalilla National Park is stunning.
Whale watching
June to September brings humpback whales to the coast. Isla de la Plata is the prime viewing spot.
Machalilla National Park
Ecuador's only coastal national park. Dry forest, archaeological sites and pristine beaches.
Montecristi
The true home of the 'Panama hat'. Visit workshops to see master weavers craft these iconic pieces.
Seafood
Manta is Ecuador's tuna capital. Fresh ceviche and grilled fish at the Tarqui fish market and beachfront restaurants.