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Explore the wonders of Machala

At first glance, the small city of Machala doesn't look like much. But its somewhat humble appearance is only the surface of this diverse little city. Not taking the time to explore this busy little commercial center would be a mistake – there is so much more to it than meets the eye!

Machala is mainly known for its shrimp and banana exports, as it is responsible for producing the majority of these two items in the country. Machala is also one of the largest Banana exporters in the world and, as such, is often nick-named the ‘Banana capital of the world'.

Perhaps one of the reasons Machala is so busy is due its location. The city is not very far from the country's largest city, Guayaquil, nor is it far from some of the nicer beaches in Ecuador. The local beaches of Jambeli or the neighboring Peruvian beaches of Zorritos are within a few hours drive from Machala. Puerto Bolivar is quite an attractive place to spend a few hours. Not only will you be able to see the shrimp and banana trade in action, but there are numerous harbor restaurants where you will be able to enjoy good food while you look out at the protective and natural mangrove swamps surrounding the harbor.

Also worth seeing in Machala is the Isla del Amor, which has an amazing abundance of birdlife. You can rent a canoe and paddle around the mangrove swamps on your own or take a motorized boat tour of the harbor – or both if you prefer. The ‘Reina Mundial del Banano' is a worldwide beauty pageant that is held in Machala every September and the abundance of color and the festivities which surround it are most enjoyable.

Why not make Machala part of your list of Ecuadorian cities to visit? This little city is quite special and has a lot more to offer than you would initially think. You will quickly find out just how much there is to do here by spending a day or two here by yourself.