Is Manta Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

Manta is a major coastal city located in the Coastal Lowlands of Ecuador.

Manta is a commercial and vacation resort area and is the second-largest seaport in Ecuador.

Tourists come here to see Ecuador culture, tropical climate and to try local cuisine.

Manta hosts an International Theater Festival every year in September.

There are sporting events from January through April.

Also, first-rate night clubs, bars, and casinos attract travelers from around the world.

There are a lot of museums in Manta; you can visit a variety of thematic museums in this city.

Manta has a fantastic selection of fresh seafood.

You can find fish, shrimp, octopus, calamari, clams, mussels, prawns, lobsters, crabs, and scallops that are especially fresh and cheap.

Warnings & Dangers in Manta

OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM

Manta is not safe for tourists, and you should always be on the lookout for your surroundings. Do not leave your things unattended. Keep valuables and documents in the hotel safe. Always lock the car and do not leave anything in it.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM

Public transport is available in Manta, and you can use it. However, taxis are also inexpensive and convenient, so you can use them to get around. Carry little money to pay for your fare. And discuss the price of the trip before you get in the car.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH

Pickpockets work in Manta quite quickly and in large groups. Their goal is tourists who stand out in the crowd and do not watch their belongings. You should be especially careful with people who ask or offer you help. In the group and at markets/train stations, watch your belongings and pockets especially carefully.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM

Ecuador is located in an area of intense seismic activity. There is a high risk of earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and tsunamis. Before your trip here, study the current hazard level from these risks and take appropriate measures.

MUGGING RISK: HIGH

Grave armed robberies in Manta are quite common. Often they are associated with a showdown of drug dealers or with those who are ready for anything for a new dose of drugs. Travelers to Manta should avoid walking around the city at night and not shine with valuable things and money. Try not to stand out too much among the locals so as not to become a target for criminals.

TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM

Although Ecuador has no history of terrorism, it cannot be ruled out due to its proximity to Colombia. Some civil unrest occurs in the city from time to time, so in order not to get into a terrorist attack, stay away from political rallies and crowds.

SCAMS RISK: HIGH

Most often, scammers here try to deceive tourists, sell them non-existent tours and excursions. In a taxi, you can be fooled by the price of the fare. And if you are given change in cash - dollars are often fake. Be mindful of your surroundings.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM

Women are not recommended to travel to Manta alone. During the day it can be more or less safe, but at night you better not show on the streets. Besides, local men may show you unwanted increased attention. Use the taxi if you return home late at night.

So... How Safe Is Manta Really?

Manta is not considered the safest city.

The crime index is quite high.

The main crimes here are related to the theft of things, robbery, theft, and hacking of cars.

There are also problems with drug trafficking and a big problem with corruption and bribery.

Tourists should take special care in some regions of Manta.

Dark unlit streets at night are incredibly unsafe.

Taxis are inexpensive in the city, using them even for short distances is a great precaution.

Beware of those who ask for money under any pretext, including children begging for alms.

These may be scammers who have the goal of tricking or robbing you.

Pickpocketing is carried out by highly qualified groups of 3 or 4 people.

It’s best not to bring a wallet with you – just a few bills divided between different pockets.

Buses and bus stations are an area known to travelers (both foreigners and residents).

You should carefully monitor your bags before and during departure, even once on the bus.

It’s better not to put your luggage on the upper rack, as you can quickly get distracted and steal all your belongings before you understand.

To avoid risks in Manta, you should especially carefully monitor your things and take enhanced measures to ensure your safety.

How Does Manta Compare?

Useful Information

Visas

Most visitors to Ecuador can enter the country without a visa. However, some visitors from certain countries must first obtain a visa in advance before being allowed to enter the country. Visitors may stay up to 90 days, except citizens of Peru, who are allowed a maximum stay of 180 days, and citizens of China who are allowed to stay for 90 days per the calendar year. A valid passport is a must.

Currency

The present currency of Ecuador is the United States dollar. The United States dollar has a sign: $ and a code: USD. One dollar is divided into 100 cents.

Weather

The best times to visit Manta for ideal weather are mid-August to December. Average temperatures in Manta vary very little, and the weather feels hot for most of the year, with a bit of chance of rain throughout the year.

Airports

Eloy Alfaro International Airport is a combination of the civilian airport and military airbase on the Pacific coast near Manta, a city in the Manabí Province of Ecuador. It is the fourth-busiest airport in Ecuador. The airport is located 5 km from the city center.

Travel Insurance

The travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country. Make sure you got it before starting your journey, the customs officer may ask for it.

Manta Weather Averages (Temperatures)

Average High/Low Temperature

Ecuador - Safety by City