15 Feb 2023
If you have a full day in Guayaquil, you need to go on this tour. It was one of the highlights of our entire trip to Ecuador and the Galapagos. Mario is truly the best guide I have ever had the pleasure of meeting! The cocoa farm was an incredible experience- we got to make our own chocolate and then enjoyed a delicious three course lunch. All the ingredients were either grown/raised on the farm or nearby (right down to the sugar for the coffee!). Mario was able to accommodate my food restriction so I could enjoy a delicious meal. We also got to make our own chocolate bars to take home with us. Afterwards, we enjoyed a tour of downtown Guayaquil, including the cathedral, iguana park, and the 444 steps. Mario shared the beautiful history of Ecuador and also provided us with great recommendations of places to eat during our last day in Guayaquil (which we ended up trying and enjoying). Mario us so knowledgeable, kind, and accommodating. I highly HIGHLY recommend this experience!!!