T9545IQandrewc
A bit of an adventure to get to the waterfalls, but really worth the hike! Start in either Machala or El Guabo (both in El Oro province) and look for the provincial bus route between the two city centers. The bus will read Machala- El Guabo in the front window, and should cost about 75 cents per person. As you pay the bus toll be sure to tell the bus driver that you want to be dropped off at the entrance for Cascadas de Manuel. There will be a large sign along the side of the highway, and the entrance will be along a banana plantation. From the main highway you'll need to hire a pickup truck taxi, or be comfortable with hitch-hiking, as the entrance to the waterfalls is around 5 miles from the main highway.My girlfriend and I went on a Sunday and we were able to thumb a ride after walking up the entrance road for about 30 minutes. The park had a good number of people visiting for a Sunday, but not too crowded. There are 8 waterfalls along the hike, with numbers 2 and 8 being the most impressive. You can enjoy your entire visit around the first two waterfalls, if you have young children or aren't confident in your hiking ability. The first two waterfalls are easily accessed, but from there the trail becomes steeper and slicker. We both wore flip-flops which were a bit slippery for climbing the muddied rocks along the trail. Durable shoes and a good level of fitness are advised for making the full trek. Most of the waterfalls have a nice pool to swim in, or wash the mud off your feet.The park is open everyday from 7am to 6pm, and costs $2 per person. Pack some water and food, as there are no vendors around the park. There are no designated camping sites, and if you want to 'rough it' make sure to bring bug-repellant.
