Salango: The Divers’ Village, Cradle of Ancient Cultures and Jewel of Ecotourism in Puerto López
Just ten minutes north of Puerto López lies the divers’ village of Salango — one of the most authentic and complete ecotourism experiences on the coast of Manabí. This small fishing village, protected by the majestic Machalilla National Park, combines more than five thousand years of pre-Columbian history, extraordinary marine richness, living traditions and a model of community tourism that allows visitors to connect deeply with nature and local culture.
A visit to Salango is far more than a simple outing: it is a journey through time. Its Archaeological Museum reveals the first inhabitants of this stretch of the Ecuadorian coast, while Manabí cuisine, the coral reefs and the new marine reserve turn every day into a sensory adventure. Here a group of skilled local divers share their knowledge and experience in protecting valuable marine resources such as black coral and the sacred Spondylus shell, while guiding tourists through their first snorkeling practice. The area also offers sport fishing, the Salango Viewpoint with spectacular views, paragliding, bicycle outings and ecotourism trails that wind through the tropical dry forest.
Ecological and Community Tourism: The Heart of Salango
The main goal of the Salango community is to showcase, promote, conserve and preserve the ecosystems, ways of life, customs, tourism, economy and every aspect of the lives of the commune’s inhabitants. This commitment takes shape in guided visits to the ecological trails, nurseries, observation points, artisan workshops, the island, the marine reserve and, above all, the Archaeological Museum.
Salango has become a living example of how a community can thrive on ecotourism without destroying its environment. The same fishermen and divers who for generations extracted resources from the sea now protect the coral, educate visitors and generate income through sustainable and responsible tourism. This transformation has made Puerto López and its surroundings one of the most coherent community tourism destinations in Ecuador.
