Manta is the most important town in the province of Manabí. The name originates from the Manta culture, which dates back to the year 500. The town has undergone a dynamic development in the fields of industry, trade and tourism. It produces primarily coffee, cocoa and tuna. Not far from the town is Montecristi, where nearly the entire population is involved in the production of Panama hats.
Sights include: the museum, which exhibits mostly pre-Columbian art; the Indio market selling hand-made items.
