Sendero Pasaje del Mono (Pacoche)

Pacoche is one of the last remnants of humid forest on Ecuador's otherwise dry central coast, kept green by the sea mists that roll in off the Pacific. The refuge protects both the forest and a stretch of coast, and the best-known walk is the Pasaje del Mono, a 1.5–2 km loop with steps, slopes and roots. Go with a local guide (hired at the trailhead, around $20 per group): they know where the troops of howler monkeys feed and will point out birds, orchids and the odd tarantula. Allow 1.5–2 hours on the trail. It's muddy and slippery in the January–April rains, so wear proper shoes and bring insect repellent. There's no public transport worth using, so arrange a taxi or driver for the round trip.