The province of Santa Elena, Ecuador, has launched its highly anticipated humpback whale watching season, an annual event drawing thousands of tourists.
This year's tourism campaign, themed 'The Tour of Love,' celebrates the courtship rituals of these ocean giants. The season runs from late June to September, with the whales migrating from Antarctica to the warm Ecuadorian Pacific waters for mating and reproduction.
Salinas officially inaugurated the season on June 21, 2025, with cultural and recreational activities. These included free whale watching tours, themed parades, sand sculpture contests, and concerts. Five authorized tour operators are conducting daily observation trips, adhering to safety and environmental regulations.
The season boosts the local economy, raises environmental awareness, and promotes sustainable tourism. Ayangue is another departure point for whale watching. The Salinas Municipality invites residents and tourists to experience this blend of nature, art, and culture. 'The Tour of Love' is a tribute to whales and an opportunity for Salinas to shine as a destination for unforgettable marine encounters.