San Lorenzo de Esmeraldas

San Lorenzo de Esmeraldas is a coastal town located in the Esmeraldas province of Ecuador. It is known for its beautiful beaches and lush tropical surroundings. The town is a popular destination for tourists looking to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

San Lorenzo de Esmeraldas also has a rich Afro-Ecuadorian culture, reflected in its cuisine, music, and traditions.

Places to visit

Key Phrases

Speak like a local

  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Buenos días" - Good morning
  • "Adiós" - Goodbye

Day plans

Spend a day exploring around

day 1

Exploring San Lorenzo

morning:Start your day with a walk along the tranquil shores of Playa Tonsupa, taking in the breathtaking ocean views. Then, visit the Mompiche Beach for a relaxing morning by the sea. Don't miss the chance to savor a delicious breakfast at La Gaviota restaurant by the beach. 🌅

afternoon:In the afternoon, hike to the stunning Cascada La Perla, a serene waterfall nestled in the lush jungle. Continue your adventure by exploring the El Agua Waterfall and its surrounding beautiful natural landscapes. For lunch, indulge in local seafood at the charming El Diablo Qui Guay restaurant. 🌿

evening:For the perfect end to your day, head to Cielo Rojo Beach Bar for sunset cocktails and live music, or join a beach bonfire for a memorable evening under the stars. 🍹

day 2

Cultural Immersion

morning:Embrace the local culture by visiting the Museo Arqueológico de Af cada Mohechú to learn about the indigenous history of the region. Then, wander through the vibrant indigenous market and discover unique handicrafts. Enjoy a delightful breakfast at the Rincón Manaba Sofia, known for its authentic local dishes. ☕

afternoon:Spend the afternoon at the beautiful Playa de Las Peñas, where you can relax, swim, and take in the stunning coastal scenery. Afterward, delve into the local cuisine at Restaurante Plaza del Mar and feast on delicious seafood specialties. 🦐

evening:End your day with an unforgettable night-out at La Troje del Rancho and experience traditional Ecuadorian music, dance, and delightful drinks, ensuring an evening filled with joy and cultural immersion. 🎶

day 3

Nature and Adventure

morning:Embark on a thrilling morning adventure with a bike ride through the captivating landscapes of Bosque Protector Cerro Seco, discovering incredible flora and fauna. Fuel up for your day with a hearty breakfast at El Parador Restaurant, renowned for its local organic cuisine. 🚵

afternoon:Head to Laguna El Salado to admire the picturesque scenery and enjoy kayaking on the calm waters. Continue your nature exploration at Bosque Marino, where you can snorkel and encounter diverse marine life. Savor a scrumptious lunch at El Antojito Marina. 🛶

evening:Spend the evening at the vibrant Malecón de Atacames, strolling along the lively boardwalk and indulging in the local street food and refreshing beverages. Cap off your evening with a lively atmosphere at La Iguana Azul for an entertaining night-out. 🍻

day 4

Relaxation and Wellness

morning:Embrace relaxation with a yoga session at the serene Yoga Dhaara Studio, surrounded by peaceful nature. Following your practice, treat yourself to a rejuvenating spa experience at Spa Manaba, providing a range of holistic treatments. Refuel with a nourishing breakfast at Café del Mar to start your day on a healthy note. 🧘

afternoon:Indulge in a tranquil afternoon at the Hot Springs of El Tigrón, where you can unwind in the rejuvenating thermal waters and enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings. For a nourishing meal, visit the organic La Finca restaurant and savor their farm-to-table specialties. 🌿

evening:Complete your day with a peaceful evening at Playa de Atacames, as you soak in the breathtaking sunset views and relish a serene beach walk, providing the perfect end to a day filled with relaxation and wellness. 🌅

San Lorenzo de Esmeraldas Famous Food

Must-Try local dishes

Encocado de Pescado

A popular dish featuring fish, typically served in a savory coconut sauce with rice. It can be found at local seafood restaurants such as Restaurante Mariscos El Tesoro.

Must-Try!

Bolon de Verde

Mashed green plantains mixed with cheese and shaped into a ball, often served with fried pork or cheese. Look for this at traditional eateries such as Picanteria Las Acacias.

Ceviche de Concha

A refreshing seafood dish made from conch marinated in lime juice, served with onions, tomatoes, and cilantro. Visit La Cabaña del Pescador for an excellent version of this local specialty.

Food Markets & Street Food

A food market and street food guide

Mercado Municipal de San Lorenzo

This bustling market is a treasure trove of fresh produce, seafood, and local ingredients. Be sure to try the various street food offerings, including empanadas, ceviche, and freshly squeezed fruit juices.

Malecón de San Lorenzo

Along the waterfront, you'll find countless street food vendors offering a variety of coastal delights such as patacones (fried plantains), bollos (steamed corn dumplings), and encebollado (fish stew).

Pet sitters in San Lorenzo de Esmeraldas

Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!

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