North Coast & Lowlands

Ecuador's north coast doesn't make it onto the itineraries of many international travelers – it's hard to compete in a country that offers so much variety. But for surfers, backwoods explorers and nature lovers, this is a hidden treasure.

Here you'll find quiet beaches, uncrowded waves, little-explored mangrove forests, indigenous jungle settlements and entrancing Afro-Ecuadorian villages.

Further south, the sun-kissed beach towns of Same, Mompiche and Canoa are the top backpacker draws, with good surf, peaced-out vibes and bacchanalian booze-ups that carry on 'til dawn.

Explore North Coast & Lowlands

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Top attractions

These are our favorite local haunts, touristy spots, and hidden gems throughout North Coast & Lowlands.

  • Community

    Tsáchila Communities

    The Tsáchila people number about 3000; their eight communities spread across a 10500-sq-km reserve around Santo Domingo. A community tour is available…

  • Museum

    Museo Historico de Montecristi

    Revolutionary and two-time president Eloy Alfaro was born in Montecristi, and here is an amazing tribute to the man: a hilltop museum with a panoramic…

  • Nature Reserve

    Reserva Ecologico Jama-Coaque

    We're hoping this reserve, 26 km south of Perdanales and 3km off the main highway, opens to tourism soon. Last we heard, Third Millenium Alliance (www…

  • Wildlife Reserve

    Playa de Oro Reserva de Tigrillos

    Half an hour upstream from Playa de Oro, this 100-sq-km reserve is owned and operated by the community of Playa de Oro. It borders the Reserva Ecológica…

  • Beach

    Tarqui Beach

    The east end of this stretch of sand is a hive of activity early in the mornings, as vendors sell row upon row of shark, tuna, swordfish, dorado and other…

  • Island

    Isla Corazón

    Bird-watchers shouldn't miss a visit to Isla Corazon, where you can take guided tours through mangroves in search of frigate birds, herons, egrets and…

  • Nature Reserve

    Congal Bio-Station

    Only 2km from Muisne, this 6.5-sq-km marine reserve established by Jatun Sacha in 2000 focuses on mangrove conservation and organic aquaculture…

  • Beach

    Playa Murciélago

    This beach is less protected than most beaches in the area and has bigger waves (although they’re not very big) along with a powerful undertow. It’s a…

  • Church

    Church of La Merced

    Built of materials imported from the US and Europe in 1912, this church has survived two big earthquakes. Alberto Santos, a big-time businessman of the…

  • Museum

    Centro Cultural Esmeraldas

    This combined museum, library and bookstore contains materials ranging from recent local history to fine ceramics and gold work from the ancient Tolita…

  • Museum

    Museo Arqueológico del Banco Central

    The fully modernized city museum opened in its current location in 2009, and showcases valuable artifacts from pre-Colombian Manta culture, a selection of…

  • Viewpoint

    Mirador La Cruz

    High above the peninsula and boasting great views of the city, sea and river, this viewpoint at the south end of town can be reached on foot or by a short…

  • Statue

    Big Tuna

    An incomparable photo op: the city's iconic fish, a gargantuan albacore tuna (atún), with tin can attached.

  • Community

    Los Naranjos Community

    A stay at the Los Naranjos community includes meals, a tour, and a language class. If you're just coming for the day, the tour and an 'aura cleaning'…

  • Museum

    Museo Arqueologica Playa Africa

    See a collection of more than 6000 pieces of artifacts from the region. Get off a northbound bus in Montalvo and ask for local transport (car or motorbike…

  • Church

    Basilica Santisima Virgen de Montserrat

    Dating back to the early 20th century, this beautiful church contains a statue of the Virgin to which miracles have been attributed. While the Museo…

  • Museum

    Museo Bahía de Caráquez

    You’ll find a good introduction to the area’s indigenous history at this well-curated modern museum. The collection includes hundreds of pieces of pre…

  • Waterfront

    Malecon Las Palmas

    This new walkway along the bay features cell-charging stations, a skate park, a dozen food stands and the largest Ecuadorian flag you will ever see. A…

  • Church

    Church

    This Catholic Church frames Esmeraldas' main square.

Top experiences

Whether it’s a guided tour of a historic landmark, private tasting of local delicacies, or an off-road adventure — explore the best experiences in North Coast & Lowlands.

  • Activities