Puerto Cayo Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Puerto Cayo with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, where to eat and stay, and how to get around safely.


Puerto Cayo is a hidden gem in Ecuador’s Coastal Lowlands, offering visitors a unique blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and delicious cuisine. Whether you are a nature lover, history buff, foodie, or simply seeking a relaxing getaway, Puerto Cayo has something to offer everyone. In this comprehensive guide, we will provide you with all the information you need to plan your next trip to Puerto Cayo.

Introduction to Puerto Cayo

Puerto Cayo is a small fishing village located on the Pacific Coast of Ecuador, about 15 km south of Jipijapa. It is known for its pristine beaches, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. The village itself is home to around 5,000 people, most of whom are fishermen or farmers.

List of Places to Visit in Puerto Cayo

Puerto Cayo has a variety of attractions for visitors to explore, ranging from museums and historical sites to natural wonders and outdoor adventures.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Puerto Cayo has a rich cultural heritage that is evident in its museums and historical sites. Some of the must-visit places include:

  • Museo Afroecuadoriano: This museum showcases the Afro-Ecuadorian culture and history. It has a collection of artifacts, photographs, and artworks that depict the unique Afro-Ecuadorian heritage.
  • Archeological Site of Agua Blanca: This ancient village is located about 30 km from Puerto Cayo and is known for its ruins and artifacts that date back to the Manteño civilization.
  • Iglesia de San Francisco: This historic church was built in the 18th century and is a fine example of the colonial-era architecture.

Natural Attractions of Puerto Cayo: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

If you are a nature lover or an adventure seeker, Puerto Cayo has plenty of outdoor activities to offer. Here are some of the top natural attractions:

  • Machalilla National Park: This park covers an area of more than 60,000 hectares and is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including humpback whales, monkeys, and sea turtles. Visitors can explore the park on foot, horseback, or by boat.
  • Isla de la Plata: Also known as the Silver Island, this uninhabited island is located about 40 km off the coast of Puerto Cayo. It is home to a variety of seabirds, including the blue-footed booby and the waved albatross.
  • Los Frailes Beach: This is one of the most beautiful beaches in Ecuador, with crystal-clear waters and white sand. It is located within the Machalilla National Park and is a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Puerto Cayo

Puerto Cayo has several hiking and biking routes that offer visitors a chance to explore its natural beauty. Some of the most popular routes include:

  • Climb the Cerro de los Frailes: This hill offers stunning views of the Machalilla National Park and the Pacific Ocean.
  • Biking to San Andres: San Andres is a small village located about 17 km from Puerto Cayo. The route to San Andres offers breathtaking views of the countryside and is a great way to explore the area.

Best Things to Do in Puerto Cayo: Activities and Tours

Puerto Cayo has a variety of activities and tours that cater to all interests and budgets. Here are some of the top things to do:

  • Whale Watching: During the months of July to September, visitors can take a boat tour to see the humpback whales that migrate to the area.
  • Scuba Diving: Puerto Cayo has several dive sites that offer visitors a chance to explore the area’s rich marine life.
  • Horseback Riding: Visitors can take a guided horseback tour to explore the area’s countryside and beaches.

Week-Long Itinerary for Puerto Cayo

If you are planning a week-long trip to Puerto Cayo, here is a suggested itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Arrive in Puerto Cayo, explore the village and its beaches
2 Visit the Archeological Site of Agua Blanca and the Museo Afroecuadoriano
3 Take a boat tour to Isla de la Plata, explore the island’s wildlife and terrain
4 Explore Machalilla National Park on foot or by horseback
5 Go scuba diving or snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of Los Frailes Beach
6 Take a guided horseback tour to San Andres, explore the village and its surroundings
7 Relax on the beach, enjoy the local cuisine, and prepare for your departure

Food and Drink Scene of Puerto Cayo

Puerto Cayo is known for its delicious seafood, exotic fruits, and refreshing drinks. Here are some of the must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ceviche: A traditional dish made with raw fish, shrimp, or shellfish marinated in citrus juices and served with onions, tomatoes, and cilantro.
  • Encebollado: A soup made with fish, onions, yuca, and spices. It is a popular breakfast dish in Puerto Cayo.
  • Arroz con Menestra y Carne Asada: A rice dish served with hearty lentil stew and grilled steak.

Local Beverages

  • Guanabana Juice: A refreshing drink made with the tropical fruit guanabana.
  • Canelazo: A warm drink made with cinnamon, sugar, and aguardiente (a local spirit).
  • Salprieta: A spice mix made with roasted peanuts, sesame seeds, and other seasonings. It is often sprinkled on top of rice or used as a condiment.

Where to Stay in Puerto Cayo: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Puerto Cayo has a variety of accommodation options, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious resorts. Some of the top places to stay include:

  • Casa Aventura: This guesthouse offers comfortable rooms and a rooftop terrace with stunning ocean views.
  • Villa de Los Suenos: This beachfront hotel has spacious rooms, a swimming pool, and a restaurant.
  • Hosteria Nantu: This eco-friendly hostel is located within the Machalilla National Park and offers hiking and biking tours.

What to Buy in Puerto Cayo: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Puerto Cayo has several local products and handicrafts that make excellent souvenirs. Here are some of the top items to buy:

  • Panama Hats: These hats are made from the toquilla straw and are a popular souvenir in Ecuador.
  • Handmade Jewelry: Puerto Cayo is known for its intricate beadwork and jewelry made from shells and other natural materials.
  • Chocolate: Ecuador is known for its high-quality chocolate, and Puerto Cayo has several shops that sell locally made chocolate products.

Local Culture and Customs of Puerto Cayo

Puerto Cayo has a rich cultural heritage that is rooted in its Afro-Ecuadorian and indigenous communities. Visitors are advised to respect the local customs and dress modestly when visiting cultural sites.

Best Time to Visit Puerto Cayo

The best time to visit Puerto Cayo is from June to September, when the weather is dry, and the humpback whales migrate to the area. However, the area can be visited at any time of the year, as the temperatures are mild and the beaches are beautiful year-round.

Do’s and Don’ts of Puerto Cayo

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.
  • Explore the Machalilla National Park and its surroundings.

Don’t:

  • Litter on the beaches or in the national park.
  • Venture into the ocean without a guide or proper equipment.
  • Disrespect the wildlife or disturb their habitats.

Safety and Health

Safety in Puerto Cayo

Puerto Cayo is a safe place for visitors, but it is advisable to take precautions when exploring the area. Here are some safety tips:

  • Avoid walking alone at night.
  • Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
  • Take precautions when swimming in the ocean, as the currents can be strong.

Health in Puerto Cayo

Visitors to Puerto Cayo are advised to take precautions to avoid common travel illnesses. Here are some health tips:

  • Drink bottled water or boiled water.
  • Wear insect repellent to avoid mosquito bites.
  • Pack sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.

Getting to Puerto Cayo: Transportation Options and Logistics

Puerto Cayo is located about 300 km from Quito, the capital city of Ecuador. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Puerto Cayo

The nearest international airport is in Guayaquil, about 180 km from Puerto Cayo.

Bus Stations Near Puerto Cayo

The nearest bus station is in Jipijapa, about 15 km from Puerto Cayo.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car or hire a private driver to get to Puerto Cayo.

How to Get Around in Puerto Cayo

The best way to get around Puerto Cayo is on foot or by bicycle. Visitors can also hire a taxi for short distances or rent a car for longer trips.

Where to Go Next from Puerto Cayo: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Puerto Cayo is located in a stunning region of Ecuador with several other attractions and destinations nearby. Here are some of the top places to visit:

  • Montañita: This famous surf town is located about 75 km from Puerto Cayo and is known for its vibrant nightlife and excellent surfing beaches.
  • Salinas: This coastal town is located about 200 km from Puerto Cayo and is known for its luxurious resorts and high-end restaurants.
  • Guayaquil: Ecuador’s largest city and main port is located about 300 km from Puerto Cayo and is worth a visit for its historic architecture and lively markets.

Conclusion

Puerto Cayo is a hidden gem in Ecuador that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and delicious cuisine. Whether you are seeking adventure or relaxation, this small fishing village has something to offer everyone. Use this guide to plan your next trip to Puerto Cayo and explore all that this beautiful region has to offer.

Panoramic view of Puerto Cayo Panoramic view of Puerto Cayo