Miss Universe Ecuador 2026 contestants tour Santa Elena beaches, boost tourism

Twenty‑six Miss Universe Ecuador 2026 candidates have been traveling to coastal towns of Santa Elena province since July 16, visiting Ballenita, La Libertad, Salinas, Olón and Montañita. Their visits have drawn attention from tourists and residents, who greet the contestants and take photos.

On Saturday the group served as guests of honor at Ayangue’s official summer‑season opening, taking part in a whale‑watching outing to see humpback whales. The tour is part of a promotional effort ahead of the national final, scheduled for August 15 on the Vicente Rocafuerte park grounds in Santa Elena. Current titleholder Nadia Mejía, Miss Universo Ecuador 2025, accompanies the candidates, while mayor María del Carmen Aquino highlighted the event’s role in promoting the province’s tourism.