ISLA DE LA PLATA
ECUADOR
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Location Ecuador
Duration 9 nights
Hotel Victor Hugo
Level from Advanced Open Water
Manta Expert Michel Guerrero
HIGHLIGHTS
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Dive with the world’s largest population of oceanic manta rays with expected sightings of dozens of giants each day!
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Witness the annual migration of humpback whales. Experience the magic of their underwater songs as you dive!
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Enjoy an exclusive expedition in one of the most unexplored and unknown oceanic manta hotspots!
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Encounter green turtles, vibrant reef fish, enormous stingrays, moray eels, and — with luck — the rare sunfish!
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Hike across Isla de la Plata, a birdwatcher’s paradise home to nesting frigate birds and blue-footed boobies
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Explore the jungle in search of hummingbirds, toucans, howler monkeys, and a host of other tropical wildlife
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A unique chance to observe and study elusive marine megafauna in one of the world’s most ecologically rich marine reserves​
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Participate in workshops & help scientists collect meaningful data to further manta ray research and conservation!​​​
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Oceanic Mantas
Humpback Whales
Seals
Isla de la Plata is a small island off the coast of Manabí, Ecuador, and is part of Parque Nacional Machalilla. On the island, there is a large diversity of animal species, but it’s underwater that this site truly delivers its best. Unknown to most, Ecuador has the largest known population of oceanic manta rays (Mobula birostris) in the world.
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This location represents an unparalleled opportunity to study this iconic and typically elusive species. During the months of August and September, oceanic manta rays visit this region in large numbers, it's not uncommon to record 30–40 individuals during a single day of diving! What makes this site even more special is the size of the mantas observed... they have been recorded to be the largest in our planet!
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Manta rays are not the only attraction here, this time of the year sees between 400 and 2000 humpback whales migrate to the area to give birth and mate, offering the breathtaking experience of encountering these elegant giants en route to the dive sites and listening to their enchanting singing while diving.
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The dive sites around Isla de la Plata host a large population of green turtles which can be regularly encountered alongside various species of reef fishes, moray eels, enormous stingrays, and with some luck, the elusive sunfish too! You can expect to see playful schools of spotted eagle rays, guitarfish resting on the sandy seafloor, and clouds of colorful snappers and jacks darting among volcanic rock formations. Nudibranchs and sea stars add vibrant detail to the reefscape, while curious octopuses and camouflage masters like scorpionfish challenge the eye of even the most experienced underwater naturalists.
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Seasonal visitors such as whale sharks have also been occasionally reported, thrilling divers with their gentle presence. The rich upwellings in the region support an abundance of plankton, making this a critical feeding ground for many large filter feeders and a hotspot for marine biodiversity in the Eastern Tropical Pacific.
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The expedition will also include a day visit and hike on Isla de la Plata, a birdwatching paradise with thousands of nesting frigates and boobies, as well as a jungle tour in search of toucans, howler monkeys, and many other jungle inhabitants!
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A TYPICAL ITINERARY
Day 1:
~12pm transfer to Puerto Lopez and check-in at the hotel
7pm Welcome presentation and dinner​
Day 2:
Guided tour of Isla de la Plata and birdwatching
Day 3-8:
Diving at Isla de la Plata (2 dives daily for 6 days)
Whale watching while on route to Isla de la Plata
Workshops & presentations by Manta Expert​
Day 9:
Jungle tour with traditional lunch included
Day 10:
Check-out (12pm latest)
~9am Transfer to Guayaquil the airport
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One of my best expeditions in 40 years of diving the oceans.
Just great, wonderful !
Marcus Koch, Manta Passion 8
MEET YOUR MANTA EXPERT
Michel Guerrero is a renowned marine biologist and conservationist from Ecuador, specializing in the study and protection of manta rays and other large marine species. He earned his degree in Marine Biology from the Universidad San Francisco de Quito, where he developed a deep commitment to marine ecosystems. Over the years, Michel has conducted extensive field research that has been instrumental in identifying critical manta ray habitats and understanding their behavior. His contributions have helped shape conservation strategies in Ecuador and have been recognized internationally, earning him several awards for marine conservation and research excellence. As the founder and director of Proyecto Manta Ecuador, Michel Guerrero leads a pioneering initiative dedicated to the conservation of manta rays and their habitats. Under his leadership, the project has successfully implemented community-based monitoring programs, influenced national policy changes to protect manta rays from fishing threats, and promoted sustainable eco-tourism. Proyecto Manta Ecuador collaborates with local communities, government agencies, and global partners to ensure the long-term survival of these majestic creatures. Michel’s work has been featured in numerous scientific publications and documentaries, positioning him as a key figure in marine conservation in the Eastern Tropical Pacific.
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The enthusiasm and flexibility of the
crew, the knowledge from Niv and the camaraderie of participants
made this trip magnificent.
Tracey Dennis, Manta Passion 8
YOUR IMPACT
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