Atacames Travel Guide

A comprehensive guide to Atacames, Ecuador, including places to visit, hiking/biking routes, food and drink, where to stay, local culture, safety tips, transportation options, and nearby destinations.


Introduction to Atacames

Atacames is a popular beach resort town on the Pacific Coast of Ecuador in South America. It is located in the Coastal Lowlands and is known for its white sandy beaches with crystal clear waters, vibrant nightlife, and a lively atmosphere. Atacames is a favorite vacation spot for locals and tourists alike due to its warm climate, delicious food, and adventurous activities.

This travel guide is a comprehensive resource for those who are planning a trip to Atacames. It includes information on the best places to visit, outdoor adventures, hiking/biking routes, food and drink, where to stay, local culture and customs, safety tips, transportation options, and nearby destinations.

List of Places to Visit in Atacames

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Atacames has a rich cultural heritage that can be explored through its museums and historical places. These are the must-visit places in Atacames:

  • Casa Cultural Atacames: This museum showcases the cultural heritage of the Atacames region through its art and artifacts.
  • Iglesia de Atacames: This beautiful colonial style church is a landmark in the town and a great place to learn about the region’s religious tradition and history.
  • Museo Etnografico de Atacames: The museum offers a glimpse into the indigenous community of Atacames and their way of life.

Natural Attractions of Atacames: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Atacames offers a wide range of outdoor adventures and scenic views that are perfect for nature lovers. These are the top natural attractions in Atacames:

  • Playa de Atacames: The main beach of Atacames is known for its golden sand, crystal clear waters, and stunning sunsets. It’s a perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying water sports.
  • Jama River: The river provides excellent opportunities for kayaking and canoeing.
  • Mangle de Atacames: This mangrove forest is situated along the river and is home to a wide variety of bird species.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Atacames

Atacames has a range of hiking and biking routes that offer excellent views of the surrounding landscapes. These are the top routes in Atacames:

  • Cerro Seco: The route leads to the top of the hill that offers panoramic views of the town and coastline.
  • Camino a Sua: The route goes through a small village and leads to a secluded beach that is perfect for surfing and swimming.
  • Playa de Same: The route leads to another beautiful beach and is perfect for those who want a longer cycling or hiking adventure.

Best Things to Do in Atacames: Activities and Tours

Atacames has a range of activities and tours that are perfect for those who want to explore the town and its surroundings. These are the top activities and tours in Atacames:

  • Surfing lessons: Atacames is a popular spot for surfing, and there are many surf schools that offer lessons for beginners and advanced surfers.
  • Boat tours: The boat tours take you along the coastline of Atacames and provide excellent opportunities for whale watching and dolphin spotting.
  • Nightlife: Atacames is known for its vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars, clubs, and discos.

Week-Long Itinerary for Atacames

Here’s a week-long itinerary for Atacames that covers the top attractions and activities:

  • Day 1: Arrival and relaxation on the beach.
  • Day 2: Surfing lessons in the morning and visit to the Casa Cultural Atacames museum in the afternoon.
  • Day 3: Boat tour in the morning and hiking to Cerro Seco in the afternoon.
  • Day 4: Biking to Camino a Sua in the morning and relaxing on the beach in the afternoon.
  • Day 5: Visit to the Iglesia de Atacames church in the morning and kayaking in the Jama River in the afternoon.
  • Day 6: Exploring the Mangle de Atacames in the morning and partying at night.
  • Day 7: Departure.

Food and Drink Scene of Atacames

Must-Try Dishes

Atacames has a rich culinary culture that draws from the local ingredients and flavors. These are the must-try dishes in Atacames:

  • Ceviche: A dish made from raw seafood marinated in citrus juice and served with onions and cilantro.
  • Encebollado: A traditional Ecuadorian soup made from fish, onions, and yuca.
  • Churrasco: Grilled beef served with rice, beans, and salad.

Local Beverages

Atacames has a range of refreshing drinks that can quench your thirst on a hot day. These are the local beverages that you must try in Atacames:

  • Coco Loco: A cocktail made from coconut water, rum, and other tropical flavors.
  • Canelazo: A hot drink made from sugarcane alcohol, cinnamon, and other spices.
  • Limonada: A sweet and tangy lemonade made from fresh lemons and sugar.

Where to Stay in Atacames: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Atacames offers a range of accommodation options that cater to different budgets and preferences. These are the top places to stay in Atacames:

  • Hotel El Marqués: A luxury hotel with a swimming pool, spa, and restaurant. It’s located near the beach and offers excellent views of the coastline.
  • Hostal Buenavista: A budget-friendly hostel that offers dormitory and private rooms. It’s located in the town center and is close to the main attractions.
  • Hostería San Clemente: A guesthouse located by the river and offers a peaceful and relaxing environment. It’s ideal for those who want to get away from the noise and crowds of the town.

What to Buy in Atacames: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Atacames offers a range of souvenirs and local products that can make for great gifts and mementos. These are the top things to buy in Atacames:

  • Shell Jewelry: Handcrafted jewelry made from seashells and other marine creatures.
  • Artisanal Crafts: Handwoven baskets, rugs, and other crafts made by local artists.
  • Spices and Herbs: Local spices and herbs that are used in the traditional dishes of Atacames.

Local Culture and Customs of Atacames

Atacames has a diverse and vibrant culture that is influenced by the indigenous communities and Spanish colonialism. These are some of the local customs and practices in Atacames:

  • Pase del Niño: A traditional Christmas parade that is celebrated in Atacames and other parts of Ecuador.
  • Carnaval: A colorful and festive celebration that takes place before Lent.
  • El Encuentro: A traditional market that takes place every Sunday in Atacames.

Best Time to Visit Atacames

The best time to visit Atacames is from December to May, which is the dry season. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, and the water is perfect for swimming and other water sports. The rainy season is from June to November, and although it doesn’t rain every day, it can be unpredictable.

Do’s and Don’ts of Atacames

Do:

  • Pack plenty of sunscreen and insect repellent.
  • Try the local cuisine and drinks.
  • Learn a few basic Spanish phrases.
  • Respect the local culture and customs.

Don’t:

  • Leave your valuables unattended on the beach.
  • Drink tap water.
  • Accept unsolicited offers for drugs or sex.

Safety and Health

Safety in Atacames

Atacames is generally a safe place to visit, but it’s always important to take precautions and use common sense. These are some tips to stay safe in Atacames:

  • Keep your valuables in a safe place.
  • Use registered taxis.
  • Stay in well-lit and populated areas at night.

Health in Atacames

Before you travel to Atacames, make sure you consult your doctor about any necessary vaccinations and medications. These are some health tips to keep in mind while in Atacames:

  • Drink bottled water.
  • Use insect repellent.
  • Be aware of the risk of sunburn and heatstroke.

Getting to Atacames: Transportation Options and Logistics

Atacames is located about 6 hours by bus from Quito, the capital city of Ecuador. These are the transportation options to get to Atacames:

Airports Near Atacames

The nearest international airport to Atacames is Mariscal Sucre International Airport in Quito.

Bus Stations Near Atacames

The major bus terminal in Atacames is the Terminal Terrestre Rio Santo in the nearby city of Esmeraldas. Buses run regularly from Quito, Guayaquil, and other major cities in Ecuador.

Other Options

Taxis and private cars are also available for hire to travel to Atacames from nearby cities and towns.

How to Get Around in Atacames

Atacames is a small town, and most of the attractions and activities can be easily reached on foot. Taxis and buses are also available for longer distances and for travel to nearby cities and towns.

Where to Go Next from Atacames: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Atacames is located near several exciting destinations and excursions. These are the top places to visit near Atacames:

  • Mompiche: A small fishing village with a beautiful beach and relaxed atmosphere.
  • Isla de la Plata: A national park and marine reserve that is often called the “poor man’s Galapagos.”
  • Esmeraldas: A lively and colorful city known for its Afro-Ecuadorian culture and local cuisine.

Conclusion

Atacames is a beautiful and vibrant beach town on the Pacific Coast of Ecuador that has something to offer for everyone. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or culture, Atacames has it all. Plan your trip today and experience the magic of Atacames for yourself.

Súa as seen from a trail from Atacames to Súa Súa as seen from a trail from Atacames to Súa