About
Esmeraldas is a coastal province in the northwest of Ecuador, on the Pacific Ocean. It takes its name from the emerald mining that has long been part of its story, and it is known today above all for its Afro-Ecuadorian culture and its beaches.
What a visit offers
- Afro-Ecuadorian culture. The province is one of the places where the Afro-Ecuadorian population is most visible, and its music, traditions and everyday life are at the heart of what visitors come to experience.
- Emerald heritage. The province's name points to its mining history, which gives a visit a link to the land and the centuries of work done on it.
- Pacific beaches. The coastline invites a slower pace, with the ocean as the main backdrop to a stay.
Who it suits
Esmeraldas suits travellers who want to go beyond the better-known highland cities and see a different side of Ecuador. It rewards curiosity more than a packed itinerary: time spent talking with local people, listening to music and walking along the shore will likely shape the visit more than any single sight.
Because the province is large and spread out, plan your route around the places you most want to reach, and allow extra time for travel between towns and the coast. Arriving with an open mind about the pace and character of the region will make the trip more rewarding.
