Things To Do
in Esmeraldas
Esmeraldas is a vibrant port city on Ecuador's northern coast where the Pacific winds mingle with lush tropical greenery. It is renowned for its Afro-Ecuadorian culture, rhythmic music, and mouthwatering seafood prepared with coconut milk and chilies. The city thrives on fishing and port life, with colorful markets, energetic street life, and a welcoming local scene.
Beyond the city, pristine beaches, mangroves, and nearby protected areas invite exploration and wildlife watching.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by wandering through the vibrant streets of Esmeraldas' historic center, where colonial architecture meets local culture. Visit the Plaza Cívica and soak in the atmosphere as local vendors set up their stalls nearby. Don't miss the chance to admire the beautiful Church of San Francisco, a stunning example of local religious architecture.
After a leisurely lunch at a nearby restaurant, continue your exploration at the Museo Arqueológico, where you can learn about the rich pre-Columbian history of the region. Spend some time at the waterfront, watching fishermen bring in their catch and enjoying the cool coastal breeze. As the sun begins to set, take a stroll along the Malecon, taking in the scenic views of the Pacific Ocean.
Wrap up your day with a dinner at a local seafood restaurant, sampling traditional dishes like ceviche and encocado. After dinner, immerse yourself in the local nightlife by visiting a nearby bar or cafe, where live music often fills the air. Enjoy the beats of Afro-Ecuadorian rhythms as you mingle with locals and fellow travelers.
Kick off your day with a visit to the stunning Atacames Beach, known for its golden sands and clear waters. Spend the morning swimming or lounging on the beach, soaking up the sun and the vibrant atmosphere. For the adventurous, try your hand at jet skiing or banana boat rides, which are popular activities here.
After a morning of fun, enjoy a lunch of fresh seafood at one of the beachside restaurants, where you can savor the flavors of the ocean. Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach, perhaps with a good book or by playing beach volleyball with locals. If you're feeling adventurous, consider taking a surf lesson from one of the experienced instructors along the coast.
As the sun sets, the beach transforms into a lively spot filled with music and laughter. Grab a tropical drink from a local vendor and enjoy an evening stroll along the shoreline, watching the waves crash against the sand. For dinner, indulge in a beach barbecue, where you can feast on freshly grilled fish while enjoying the sound of the ocean.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🚶Local transportation (one ride) | $0.50-1.50 |
| ☕Coffee and pastry | $2-4 |
| 🍽️Dinner for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🚖Taxi ride (short city trip) | $5-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Afro-Ecuadorian culture and music
- Beautiful beaches and wildlife viewing
- Affordable costs and friendly locals
- Compact, walkable city center with easy access to nearby beaches
- Limited infrastructure in remote areas
- Heat and humidity can be intense
- Road connections to some beaches can be bumpy
- Safety considerations in crowded places; petty theft can occur
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hablo un poco de español" - I speak a little Spanish
- "¿Puede recomendarme un buen restaurante?" - Can you recommend a good restaurant?
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Esmeraldas
Visit one of these nice places.
Long waterfront promenade with boats, colorful buildings, and sunset backdrops.
Historic church in the central plaza featuring classic colonial architecture.
Boardwalk through mangroves with birdlife and tranquil river views.
Vibrant markets filled with color, texture, and lively street scenes.
Golden sands, palm trees, and lively beach scenes—great at golden hour.
Food in Esmeraldas
Esmeraldas Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fish simmered in coconut milk with peppers, onions, and cilantro; typically served with rice and plantains.
Must-Try!
Coconut rice often served with fried fish or shrimp; a coastal staple.
Fresh fish cured in lime juice with onions, cilantro, and peppers; best at beach stalls.
Thick fried plantain slices topped with a seafood medley.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling market offering fresh seafood, tropical fruit, and regional snacks.
Grilled fish, seafood skewers, tostones, and empanadas by the waterfront.
Small family-run stalls serving coconut-infused soups and seafood specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake or a friendly nod; greet with 'Buenos días' or 'Buenas tardes'; address elders as 'Señor/Señora' or 'Don/Doña'.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in markets or rural communities.
Dress modestly near churches and sacred sites; light, breathable clothing is common; remove hats inside religious spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Esmeraldas
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated for good service; 5–10% in sit-down restaurants; modest tips for guides and drivers; small tips for street vendors are common but not required.
US dollars are the official currency; cash is widely accepted and cards are increasingly accepted in urban areas; ATMs are common in Esmeraldas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Typically sunny with light to moderate humidity; ideal for beach days, outdoor activities, and photography after sunrise.
Heavier rainfall and higher humidity; landscapes turn lush and green, but plan for sudden showers and potentially rough seas.
Esmeraldas at Night
Hiking in Esmeraldas
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Tropical rainforest and mangrove trails along the Cayapas River offering birdlife and wildlife viewing.
River valley hikes through lush forest with waterfall viewpoints and scenic overlooks near the coast.
Airports
How to reach Esmeraldas by plane.
Regional airport just outside the city center, serving domestic flights and some charters.
Major international gateway; long transfer to Esmeraldas but offers connections and services not available locally.
Another major international hub with frequent connections; combine with a coastal overland or flight transfer to Esmeraldas.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A core cultural group in Esmeraldas, shaping music, cuisine, and local traditions.
A mix of urban families and workers that keeps the city lively and diverse.
Smaller populations in outlying areas with distinct customs and languages.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; community games, street football, and local matches in bars and public spaces.
Nearby beaches like Atacames attract surfers of all levels with accessible waves.
Coastal and sport fishing is common, with many locals and visitors enjoying fresh catches.
Common on the sands during weekends and holidays.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Esmeraldas.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Coastal cuisine centers on seafood and meat; vegetarian options exist in larger restaurants and markets. Favor plantains, beans, rice, fresh fruit, and salads; ask for vegetable stews or grilled vegetables without seafood.