Coastal Lowlands Travel Guide

Explore the natural attractions, cultural landmarks, and food scene of Coastal Lowlands in Ecuador with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Coastal Lowlands

Located in the western part of Ecuador, Coastal Lowlands is a region known for its stunning coastline that stretches for more than 500 miles, cultural richness, and adventure opportunities. The region is home to cities like Guayaquil, Manta, and Esmeraldas, with a population of over 7 million people. If you’re looking to explore Ecuador beyond its most popular destinations, Coastal Lowlands is a great place to start.

In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about Coastal Lowlands, including the must-visit places, cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scenes, where to stay, what to buy, local culture and customs, safety and health, transportation options, and nearby excursions.

List of Places to Visit in Coastal Lowlands

  • Guayaquil: The largest city of Coastal Lowlands, Guayaquil is the commercial and cultural hub of the region. The malecon, a 2.5-mile waterfront walkway, is a must-visit spot for locals and tourists alike. The Parque Historico is a popular attraction known for its reconstructed historic homes and gardens that transport visitors to the colonial era.

  • Manta: Known for its fishing industry, Manta is a relaxed beach town and a great spot for surfing. The beaches of Murciélago and El Murci are popular among both tourists and locals. The Manta Archaeological Museum offers an insight into the pre-Columbian history of the region.

  • Esmeraldas: A city steeped in Afro-Ecuadorian culture, Esmeraldas is known for its vibrant music, dance, and art scene. The beaches of Atacames and Súa are popular among tourists for their clear waters and nightlife.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • La Rotunda Museum: Located in the heart of Guayaquil, this museum pays tribute to the meeting between Simon Bolivar and Jose de San Martin. It houses historical artifacts like paintings, sculptures, and weapons that date back to the Ecuadorian War of Independence.

  • Museo Antropológico y de Arte Contemporáneo: Situated in Guayaquil, this museum displays beautiful art collections and hosts exhibitions from local and international artists. It also features a collection of artifacts that showcase the cultural diversity of the region.

  • Parque Histórico: This museum in Guayaquil is a recreated colonial-era town, showcasing the living conditions of the wealthy traders and laborers in 19th-century Ecuador. It features gardens, a zoo, and a children’s playground.

Natural Attractions of Coastal Lowlands: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Los Frailes Beach: Located near the Machalilla National Park, Los Frailes is one of the most beautiful beaches in Ecuador. It’s surrounded by cliffs, crystal clear waters, and white sand.

  • La Chocolatera: This is where the Pacific Ocean merges with the Gulf of Guayaquil, located in the Santa Elena province. The area is known for its large waves and stunning views.

  • Puerto Lopez: This fishing village offers the opportunity for whale watching, snorkeling, and scuba diving. It’s the gateway to the Machalilla National Park, which is home to diverse wildlife, including iguanas and monkeys.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Coastal Lowlands

  • La Ruta del Spondylus: This route includes the major beaches of Coastal Lowlands and covers a distance of 670 km. It’s an excellent trail for hiking and biking and passes through the Machalilla National Park, Puerto Lopez, and Canoa, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.

  • Mahahuali: This route takes hikers through the dense forest of the Machalilla National Park, where they can explore archaeological sites and several waterfalls. It’s a beautiful hiking trail, but visitors should be prepared for difficult terrain.

Best Things to Do in Coastal Lowlands: Activities and Tours

  • Whale Watching: From June to September, coastal lowlands is the best place to witness the migration of humpback whales. Puerto Lopez offers tours that take visitors close to the whales and also provide information about their behavior.

  • Surfing: With its long coastline and pristine beaches, coastal lowlands is an excellent place for surfing, especially near the town of Montañita. Many surf schools offer lessons for beginners and experienced surfers.

  • Eating Ceviche: Ceviche is a popular seafood dish made with marinated shrimp, fish, or both, mixed with onions, tomatoes, and cilantro. Coastal Lowlands is famous for its ceviche, and it’s a must-try dish.

Week-Long Itinerary for Coastal Lowlands

Day 1: Explore the historic district of Guayaquil, including the Parque Historico and Las Peñas.

Day 2-3: Visit the Machalilla National Park and the Los Frailes beach, famous for its turquoise water and rugged cliffs.

Day 4-5: Surf or relax on the beachside town of Montañita, home to some of the best waves on the coast.

Day 6-7: Explore the biodiversity of Puerto Lopez and take a whale watching tour or scuba diving lesson.

Food and Drink Scene of Coastal Lowlands

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ceviche: A fresh and flavorful seafood dish made with marinated raw fish, onions, cilantro, and lime juice.

  • Encebollado: A fish soup made with onions, yucca, and tomatoes, traditionally eaten for breakfast.

  • Arroz con Menestra y Carne Asada: A hearty plate of rice, beans, and steak, topped with a fried egg.

Local Beverages

  • Chicha: A fermented maize drink, similar to beer, that’s served cold.

  • Ron: A popular rum-based beverage that’s mixed with coconut milk, cinnamon, and other spices.

Where to Stay in Coastal Lowlands: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Coastal Lowlands offers accommodation options for every budget, including luxury hotels, guesthouses, and hostels.

  • Mompiche: A small fishing village on the northern coast, popular among backpackers, with several hostels and surf schools.

  • Casablanca: A luxury hotel located on the Puerto Lucia Yacht Club, offering stunning views of the Pacific and a range of activities.

  • Hotel Oro Verde: A five-star hotel located in the heart of Guayaquil, with a range of amenities, including a spa and casino.

What to Buy in Coastal Lowlands: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Panama Hats: These hats are made of lightweight and breathable materials, traditionally from the coastal regions of Ecuador.

  • Tagua Jewelry: Tagua, also known as vegetable ivory, comes from the seeds of a palm tree and is formed into beautiful jewelry and carvings.

  • Cacao Products: Coastal Lowlands is known for its cacao farms and offers a range of chocolate products, including bars, truffles, and sauces.

Local Culture and Customs of Coastal Lowlands

Coastal Lowlands has a vibrant cultural scene and is known for its Afro-Ecuadorian music and dance traditions. Visitors should respect the local customs and cover their shoulders and legs while visiting religious sites.

Best Time to Visit Coastal Lowlands

The best time to visit Coastal Lowlands is from December to May, the dry season. During these months, the weather is sunny, and the waters are calm, making it ideal for outdoor activities and beach hopping.

Do’s and Don’ts of Coastal Lowlands

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.

  • Try the local cuisine and explore the food scene.

  • Learn some Spanish before visiting; it will help you break any language barrier.

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothes while visiting religious sites.

  • Walk alone at night in remote areas.

  • Take valuables to the beach.

Safety and Health

Safety in Coastal Lowlands

Pickpocketing and street crime are rare in Coastal Lowlands, but visitors should remain vigilant and avoid carrying valuables with them. It’s advisable to take a taxi at night, especially in remote areas.

Health in Coastal Lowlands

Visitors should drink only bottled water and use insect repellent to prevent mosquito bites. It’s recommended to get vaccinated for Yellow Fever and Dengue before visiting.

Getting to Coastal Lowlands: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Coastal Lowlands

  • José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport in Guayaquil

  • Eloy Alfaro International Airport in Manta

Bus Stations Near Coastal Lowlands

  • Terminal Terrestre de Guayaquil

  • Terminal Terrestre de Manta

Other Options

There are several car rental companies available at the airports, and it’s also possible to hire private drivers.

How to Get Around in Coastal Lowlands

The best way to get around Coastal Lowlands is by bus, which is cheap and convenient. Taxis and rental cars are also available, but they can be expensive.

Where to Go Next from Coastal Lowlands: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • The Galapagos Islands: This incredible natural wonder is home to unique wildlife and natural beauty.

  • The Andes Mountains: The famous mountain range offers scenic view, adventure activities and cultural experiences.

Conclusion

Coastal Lowlands is a region that offers diverse natural and cultural experiences that will make you fall in love with Ecuador. From stunning beaches to historical landmarks, from vibrant culture to outstanding food and drink scene, Coastal Lowlands has something for everyone. Plan your trip and get ready to explore this beautiful part of the world.



    Agua Blanca
    Atacames
    Esmeraldas
    Huaquillas
    Machala
    Manta
    Montañita
    Montecristi
    Puerto Cayo
    Puerto López
    Zaruma