Enjoy a Quiet Getaway in Ayampe, Ecuador.
Some places in Ecuador like Guayaquil can be a little too industrial, but you should consider heading up the coast a bit for a quiet getaway in Ayampe. It’s a sleepy little beach town where you’re just as likely to share the beach with a couple of donkeys and the occasional chicken as you are the locals. It’s a hit with hardcore surfers to enjoy the specific waves the area has to offer, and popular with Ecuadorians wanting to get out of the city for a bit.
Getting to Ayampe
While traveling to Ayampe from Guayaquile by bus can be challenging, it can be done. It’s also an interesting way to get a peek into local culture and see some scenery you might not be able to otherwise. This is how I traveled, and while it took longer than expected, it did provide us with a cultural experience I cherish. That being said, I nearly didn’t find my hotel because I got dropped off just after dusk and there were no streetlights in the area.
Where to Stay
I stayed at the Cabañas La Tortuga, referred to by some travelers as the Tortuga Hotel. I’ve written a review of Cabanas La Tortugas previously, but suffice it to say we found it to be a charming establishment, even if our entry was a bit rough. The hotel menu was affordable and pleasant enough, the price was right and we enjoyed having a stretch of quiet time on a sleepy beach after the chaos of getting ready for the six-month trip.
Reasons to Visit Ayampe & What to Do
The pace in Ayampe is relaxed. Other than surfing and beach strolling, your activities are limited to swimming, booking a boat ride and hiking around the area for travel photo opportunities.
In other words, bringing a book or two is a good idea. As far as accessing civilization for internet, money changing and running across other travelers, you’ll need to head to nearby Puerto Lopez. It’s a little on the dirty side, but there is more going on there and your grocery options are slightly better than at the little hut in Ayampe where you can buy water, powdered Tang and potato chips.
As beaches go, it isn’t necessarily comparable to some of those in the Caribbean or South Pacific. But it is a pleasant break from the city and hanging out at the Turtle Cabanas was a superior value for families, couple and solo travelers alike.
All in all, Ayampe isn’t necessarily the type of town you’d fly all the way from overseas to see, but it’s worth a few days to unwind from the fast pace of a longer trip and to get a peek into the rural coastal life of the Ecuadorian people who live there.