Botanical garden of Portoviejo

The Botanical Garden of Portoviejo is a green space in Manabí Province that combines dry forest reserves with wildlife rescue facilities. The grounds feature different zones with native and adapted plant species arranged in a natural, multi-layered layout.

The garden was founded in 1993 on empty land near the Technical University of Manabí in response to forest loss in the province. Its establishment aimed to protect species that disappeared due to environmental changes.

The garden displays native trees such as toquilla straw palms and guadua bamboo that reflect the natural diversity of the region. Visitors can observe how these plants thrive in a dry climate and remain part of local heritage.

The garden is easy to reach on foot and offers walking paths through different areas, with some sections shaded and others open. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes since the paths can be uneven and the weather tends to be very dry and hot.

The grounds created a special microclimate using native plants that allows tropical species to survive in the otherwise dry region. This engineered environment demonstrates how conservation and environmental adaptation can work together.

Location: Manabí Province

GPS coordinates: -1.04158,-80.45355

Latest update: December 12, 2025 14:23