Manta Gets 5G: Seven New Towers Installed as Part of Ecuador's National Connectivity Push

For coastal expats who have struggled with slow internet and dropped video calls, this is the story you've been waiting for.

The Upgrade

Manta has received seven new 5G radio base stations as part of Ecuador's national advanced connectivity plan, according to El Diario. The installations make Manta one of the first mid-sized coastal cities to join the country's 5G network rollout.

5G connectivity offers dramatically faster speeds, lower latency, and more reliable connections compared to the 4G LTE networks most of Ecuador currently runs on.

Why Manta

Manta is Manabí province's largest city and its economic hub — home to one of Ecuador's busiest fishing ports, a growing tourism sector, and a small but established expat community. The city has been positioning itself as a destination for remote workers and digital nomads, but inconsistent internet infrastructure has been a persistent barrier.

The 5G deployment signals that national telecom providers see commercial potential in the coastal city beyond just Quito and Guayaquil.

Ecuador's 5G Timeline

5G deployment in Ecuador is still in its early stages. The initial rollout has focused on:

• Quito — the largest deployment so far
• Guayaquil — commercial districts and port areas
• Manta — now joining with seven stations

Other cities — including Cuenca, Ambato, and coastal towns — are expected to follow, though no specific timelines have been announced.

What This Means for Expats

• Remote workers in Manta: This is a genuine quality-of-life improvement. If you work remotely from the coast, 5G means more reliable video calls, faster uploads, and fewer frustrating dead zones
• Real estate angle: Better connectivity makes Manta more attractive to the growing digital nomad demographic. This could support property values and rental demand in well-connected areas
• Coverage caveats: Seven towers is a start, not blanket coverage. Don't expect 5G in San Lorenzo or Crucita yet. The deployment is concentrated in Manta's urban core
• Device compatibility: Make sure your phone supports 5G bands used in Ecuador. Older devices won't benefit from the new infrastructure
• The bigger picture: Ecuador has historically lagged behind neighbors like Colombia and Peru in telecommunications infrastructure. The 5G rollout — even in its early stages — is a meaningful step toward closing that gap

Source: El Diario