Part of the
Hurtigruten Group

Puerto Bolivar - Banana Plantation

Excursion

Price from

$159

Duration
3h30
Season
Available all year
Min. number
0 travellers
Booking code
A-PBO1

Ecuador is the world's largest exporter of bananas. There are several methods of producing bananas and the most widespread is industrial agriculture, which uses expansive and unsustainable methods. Santa Monica banana plantation has broken the mold by running an organic production in its farm, which integrates sustainable practices.
  • Visit an ecological and sustainable Ecuadorian banana plantation.

  • Closely observe the organic production of the world’s most famous banana.

  • Discover sustainable methods of cultivation that meet the highest standards of quality.

  • Delight your senses with the local products prepared with different types of bananas.


Ecuador is the world's largest exporter of bananas. Enjoy a leisurely and educational trip to the Hacienda Santa Monica banana plantation. Learn about the way of life of a montubio (farmer) and see how crops are grown, harvested, and packed for export.

In addition to learning about how the banana plantation works, the visit to Hacienda Santa Monica showcases how organic production can integrates cultural, biological, and mechanical practices. You may also be tickled to see their innovative process of playing classic music to the banana plants.

This successful project has improved overall production and increased productivity, along with growing a better product that is respectful to the local environment.

After this marvelous experience walking through the banana plantation, visit a rustic outdoor hut to taste local products made of banana, both salty and sweet. A variety of types of banana will be showed off during this activity. The local community will also offer crafts made of banana-leaf fiber. Afterward, you will ride back to the quay.

*The entire production process visit is available on working days (Monday – Friday) and depends on the harvest season and product demand. On Saturdays and Sundays, it could be opened with limited staff, which can cause a bottleneck of people during the explanation of the process.

Practical information

  • Language: English.

  • Included: Refreshments served at the banana plantation

  • Remarks/requirements: Appropriate clothing, comfortable hiking shoes, and a hat Insect repellent is highly recommended during the rainy season.

  • Walking information: 930 yards, uneven terrain, mostly flat

  • Wheelchair accessible: No.

Penguins perched on the ice of Cuverville Island, Antarctica. Credit: Espen Mills / HX Hurtigruten Expeditions

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