San Lorenzo & Around

Introducing San Lorenzo & Around

Encircled by verdant jungle, at the edge of a dank, still sea, San Lorenzo (population 14,600) is a decrepit, lively hodge-podge of blazing heat, tropical beats and crumbling storefronts. Marimba notes and salsa music flavor this mostly African-Ecuadorian outpost, which goes all out in August with an annual music festival. The main reason to visit is to explore the infrequently visited mangroves of the area. Boat tours can be arranged down at the port.

If you’re heading south, the road to Esmeraldas passes a recommended hostel in Río Verde. You could also travel by boat through the mangroves via Limones, and stop at the muddy fishing village of Olmedo (a short walk from La Tola), where there’s a tiny hostel run by local Afro-Ecuadorian women. There are few beaches in this area – it’s all mangroves.

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009