2 DAYS TOUR DESCRIPTION DEPARTING FROM GUAYAQUIL CITY

Places to be visited in the Expedition:
*Jambelí Archipelago
*Petrified Forest Puyango, Machala
*Gold Mines, Zaruma
*Museo del Banco Central, Zaruma
*Huaquillas Town
*Feria Mundial del Banano (World Banana Convention) in season.

Lodging & Meals on own

South of Guayaquil is the wonderful city of Machala, with about 50100 inhabitants. The capital of the province of El Oro. Machala lies in the center of an important banana-growing area, and during the 200 km drive from Guayaquil, you pass many plantations of bananas, coffee, pineapple and citrus fruits. About halfway to Machala you pass through Naranjal, an important agricultural center.

Despite its economic importance, Machala is not of great tourist interest. Most travelers on their way to and from Peru pass through here, but few people stay for more than a night.

It is not totally absent of interest. The local international port of Puerto Bolivar is only seven km away and is worth visiting. There are several beaches nearby.

Machala also has a highly touted lnternational Banana & Agricultural Festival during the third week in September. This festival is one of greatest moments for tourists.

On the main road to Machala, heading southeast of the city, stands a huge statue at El Bananero -a man carrying a large branch of bananas. This is Machala's most important monument. Watch for it as you arrive in town.

Folcloric Festivals:

Zaruma Convention
Cattle Convention
Coffe Festival