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Guide
Manta, Ecuador πͺπ¨
#1459
,
Nomad Score:
62%
Essentials
ποΈ City | Manta is a coastal city located in the ManabΓ Province of Ecuador, known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant fishing port. |
π₯ Population | Approximately 200,000 |
π» Internet Speed | Average speeds of around 25 Mbps, with some areas offering higher speeds available through fiber optics. |
πΈ Currency & Banking | 1 USD β 1 USD (Ecuador uses the US dollar as its official currency.) |
π° Tap Water | Not drinkable; bottled water is recommended. |
π Power | 120V, 60Hz, π Type A/B sockets |
πΆ SIM Card | Movistar and Claro are popular mobile providers with good coverage. |
π³ Banking for Expats | Most international cards are accepted; banks like Banco Pichincha cater to expats. |
π Accommodation | Options include Airbnb, local rentals, and hotels. Prices vary from $200 to $600 per month for furnished rentals. |
π³ Cashless Friendly | Yes, while cash is still common, cards can be used widely in most establishments. |
π Short Term Rentals | Airbnb is widely used, with average prices around $30-50 per night. |
ποΈ Budget Accommodation | Hostels like Hostal Casa del Arte offer beds from $10 per night. |
ποΈ Best Area to Stay for Tourists | La BahΓa area is great for tourists due to its proximity to the beach and numerous attractions. |
ποΈ Best Area to Stay for Digital Nomads | El Murcielago offers a good mix of amenities, cafes, and coworking spaces favored by digital nomads. |
Working and Networking
π’ Best Coworking Space | Manta Coworking provides a collaborative environment with fast internet. |
β Best Cafe for Work | CafΓ© de la Plaza, popular for its coffee and reliable Wi-Fi. |
πΌ Networking Events | Periodic meetups via local Facebook groups like Manta Expats. |
π₯ Social Events for Expats | Regular gatherings at La Casa de la Cultura. |
Transportation
π Best Taxi/Ride App | Cabify is one of the most reliable ride-hailing apps in Manta. |
π² Bike/Scooter Rental | Local shops provide bicycle rentals mainly near the beach area. |
ποΈ Best Beach Nearby | La Playa de MurciΓ©lago is the most popular beach, known for its cleanliness and amenities. |
βοΈ Top Regional Airline | Avianca offers flights connecting Manta to other cities in Ecuador. |
βοΈ Top International Airline | LATAM Airlines provides international connections from Manta. |
π£οΈ Highway Access | Ecuadorian Highway E-25 connects Manta to cities like Quito and Guayaquil. |
π Main Train/Transit Hub | There are no rail services; buses are the main form of intercity transport. |
π Public Transport Passes | Buses operate frequently, but there are no formal bus passes; pay as you board. |
βοΈ Regional Travel | Public buses connect Manta to towns like Portoviejo and BahΓa de CarΓ‘quez. |
Health and Wellness
π₯ Best Hospital | Hospital del IESS provides public healthcare services. |
π§ Yoga & Wellness Centers | Yoga Manta offers various classes for all levels. |
ποΈ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Basic-Fit Manta is a popular choice among locals and expats. |
π§Ί Laundry Services | Lava y Planchado is a recommended laundry service with affordable rates. |
Food and Drink
π± Best Food Delivery App | Rappi provides comprehensive food delivery services in Manta. |
π½οΈ Best Local Dish to Try | Try the ceviche, a staple seafood dish in Manta. |
π± Vegan/Vegetarian Options | The Green House offers a variety of vegan meals. |
π« Best Dessert Spots | HeladerΓa El ColibrΓ is famous for its delicious ice cream. |
π Affordable Shopping Spots | Mercado Central is a great place to find local produce and affordable goods. |
π E-commerce/Online Store | PedidosYa is a local platform for ordering various goods online. |
π Grocery Delivery | Supermaxi offers grocery delivery services through their app. |
πΈ Bar/Nightlife Area | The nightlife is lively around Plaza de La Cultura with several bars and clubs. |
π» Local Brewery | CervecerΓa La Trinchera specializes in local craft beers. |
π· Wine Bars | El VinΓ³filo is a cozy wine bar popular with expats. |
π² Street Food Stalls | Several street vendors offer delicious empanadas and seafood skewers. |
π Popular International Cuisine | Pizzeria La Nonna serves authentic Italian dishes. |
Culture and Attractions
ποΈ Must-See Landmarks | The MalecΓ³n is a scenic waterfront promenade with shops and views. |
ποΈ Museums & Art Venues | Museo del Banco Central offers insights into local history and culture. |
π° Historical Sites | The historic city center has colonial architecture worth exploring. |
π Religious Sites | Iglesia de La Merced is a notable church with beautiful architecture. |
π Annual Events | The International Festival of Manta is held in July. |
π¨ Cultural Districts | The Eloy Alfaro neighborhood is known for its cultural significance. |
π Theater Venues | Teatro OlΓmpico hosts various cultural events and performances. |
ποΈ Local Markets | Mercado de ArtesanΓas is great for local crafts. |
πΌ Music Scene | La Esquina del Jazz features live music and local bands. |
π¨ Street Art | Murals around the city depict local culture and art. |
π§βπ³ Cooking Classes | Manta Cooking Class offers lessons on traditional Ecuadorian cuisine. |
π©βπ¨ Art Galleries | Galaria de Arte offers exhibitions of local artists. |
π°οΈ Historic Buildings | The Palacio Municipal is an important historic site. |
π΄ Local Heritage | Manta is known for its tuna fishing heritage. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
π Nearby Nature Escapes | The Machalilla National Park is a short drive from Manta, known for its wildlife. |
ποΈ National Parks Nearby | Machalilla National Park offers stunning coastal views and hiking trails. |
π² Cycling/Walking Paths | The MalecΓ³n has a dedicated path for walking and cycling. |
π Scenic Viewpoints | El Faro offers panoramic views of the coastline. |
π¦ Birdwatching Locations | Various coastal spots near Manta are great for birdwatching. |
π₯ Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Playa San Lorenzo allows bonfires in designated areas. |
Other Services and Amenities
π¦ Parcel Delivery Service | DHL and Servientrega offer reliable parcel services. |
π οΈ Tech Repair Services | Manta's local tech shops like Service PC provide good repair services. |
π Table Tennis Spots | Local community centers sometimes have table tennis facilities. |
π§βπ« Language Classes | Centro de Idiomas offers Spanish classes for all levels. |
π Libraries & Study Spots | Biblioteca Municipal is a calm place for study. |
ποΈ Community Centers | Centro Cultural holds various cultural programs and events. |
πΉοΈ Gaming Lounges | Gaming spots are emerging, especially near educational institutions. |
π° Casino & Gaming Halls | Casino de Manta provides gaming options. |
Business
π’ Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $1,200 per mΒ² (e.g., 40 mΒ² = $48,000) |
π’ Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $1,000 per mΒ² (e.g., 40 mΒ² = $40,000) |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $1,300 per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = $78,000) |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $1,100 per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = $66,000) |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $1,200 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = $96,000) |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $1,000 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = $80,000) |
πΌ Corporate Tax | 25% |
π΅ Dividend Withholding Tax | 10% |
π¦ Tax System | Progressive income tax rates up to 35% for residents. |
π Highest Income Tax Bracket | 35% |
π§Ύ VAT | 12% |
π Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Yes, Ecuador has regulations for foreign companies. |
π Property Tax | Annual property tax is based on property value. |
π Property Transaction Tax | Rate of 1.5% during property purchases. |
π» Attractive Tax System for Digital Nomads | Ecuador does not impose taxes on foreign-sourced income. |