Pacoche: Lagoon, Handicrafts and Nature in a Nearby Protected Area

Pacoche brings together cultural discoveries in the town, a lagoon and a diverse natural environment in the nearby Refugio de Vida Silvestre Marino Costero Pacoche. Vessels and stone figurines at the Museo Pacoche sit alongside a landscape whose vegetation changes with elevation. There are also local handicrafts, a past food fair and ideas for cycling and nature outings. This combination is useful when planning a trip because it offers different options: a look at culture and community life, or a greater focus on the landscape and wildlife.

Culture and the Lagoon in Pacoche

Vessels and stone figurines are on display at the Museo Pacoche. A lagoon has formed near the Refinería de Manabí in Pacoche and is considered a local tourist attraction. Visitors looking to combine culture and landscape will find two different points of interest within the community. If you are considering visiting the museum or lagoon, check in advance whether a visit is possible.

Landscape in the Nearby Protected Area

The Refugio de Vida Silvestre Marino Costero Pacoche lies near Pacoche; its vegetation zones vary with elevation. Evergreen forest grows at higher elevations, while lower-lying areas are characterized by dry forest. Near sea level, the vegetation gives way to dry scrubland; shrubs found there include Monte Saltado. The protected area therefore encompasses several distinct landscapes. For those interested in plants, the contrast between evergreen forest and dry scrubland is particularly striking.

Cycling and Wildlife Observation

Activity ideas include a bike ride through the community of Pacoche and a forest walk in the Refugio de Vida Silvestre Marino Costero. When planning, check the relevant dates and access conditions. One specific guided outing took place on October 6, 2025: 50 children from the Guardianes del Mar groups of Santa Marianita and San Lorenzo walked the Sendero del Bosque Protector de Pacoche with their parents. Along the way, they observed frogs, tarantulas, squirrels and howler monkeys, and learned about the biodiversity of the natural environment. This outing combines a trail through the nearby natural area with firsthand wildlife sightings and an introduction to the diversity of species found there.

Handicrafts and Food

Women from Santa Marianita and Pacoche make handicrafts of inherited cultural significance to order. This craftwork gives the community’s cultural life a tangible connection to the people who live there. A food fair was also held in Pacoche: in 2024, it was organized by the sector’s community leaders. Together, the handicrafts and fair offer two different insights into local culture—the work of women artisans and a past community-organized event.

Pacoche as a Destination for Your Vacation Rental

When looking for a vacation rental in Pacoche, you can first consider what you want your trip to focus on: cultural experiences and the community lagoon, cycling, or nature in the nearby protected area. A forest walk and a guided wildlife observation are two different ways to experience the natural environment. Check the visiting options and access conditions for the activities you actually plan to do.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: San Jacinto Y San Clemente, Puerto Cayo, Santa Ana, Honorato Vasquez, Cabuyal, Jaramijó Canton, Canoa, Bahía De Caráquez.

For the broader travel overview: Manabí.