Puerto El Carmen - Discovering Ecuador

Travelling to Puerto El Carmen

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Puerto El Carmen, a pretty good destination in Ecuador (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Puerto El Carmen and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Puerto El Carmen, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Ecuador, here's everything to know about Puerto El Carmen for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Puerto El Carmen

Puerto El Carmen is a small coastal town located in the province of Manabí, Ecuador. It is known for its long, sandy beaches and clear waters, making it a popular destination for swimming, surfing, and other water sports. The town is also known for its delicious seafood and traditional Ecuadorian cuisine. There are also plenty of opportunities for eco-tourism and exploring nature, including hiking in nearby forests and visiting nature preserves. Additionally, Puerto El Carmen is home to several cultural festivals and events throughout the year, including the Fiesta del Verano and the Festival de la Cosecha.

What to visit in Puerto El Carmen

Puerto El Carmen is a small coastal town in the Manabi province of Ecuador. Here are some of its tourist attractions: 1. Playa El Murciélago: This is one of the most popular beaches in Manta, located just a few minutes away from Puerto El Carmen. It’s a beautiful and spacious beach with crystal-clear water, perfect for swimming, sunbathing or surfing.
2. Manta’s Boardwalk: Also known as the Malecon, it’s a pleasant place for a walk or a bike ride along the shore. There are plenty of bars, restaurants, and ice cream shops along the way.
3. Pacoche Wildlife Reserve: This nature reserve is located just a short drive from Puerto El Carmen. It’s home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including howler monkeys, jaguars, and sea turtles. Visitors can hike through the forest or take a guided tour.
4. Museo del Banco Central: This museum is located in downtown Manta, a short distance from Puerto El Carmen. It showcases historical and cultural artifacts from the region, including pre-Columbian pottery and ancient textiles.
5. San Mateo Beach: This beach is another great option for visitors who want to relax and enjoy the sea. It’s a quiet and tranquil beach with calm waters, making it ideal for families with children.
6. La Estancia Beach: Located in the fishing village of San Lorenzo, this beach is known for its beautiful sunsets and delicious seafood restaurants.
Overall, Puerto El Carmen offers a variety of activities for visitors, from relaxing on the beach to exploring the region’s wildlife and culture.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Ecuador, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Puerto El Carmen

The best time to visit Puerto El Carmen, Ecuador is between the months of June and September. This is the dry season and the weather is typically warm and sunny, making it perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring. During the other months, especially from January to May, it can be rainy and humid, which can make it difficult to participate in outdoor activities. It's important to note that Puerto El Carmen is a year-round destination, so if you don't mind a bit of rain, any time could be a good time to visit.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Puerto El Carmen

Puerto El Carmen is a small coastal town located in Manabí province, Ecuador. The easiest way to get to Puerto El Carmen is by flying into Manta Airport, which is about 45 minutes away by car. From Manta, you can take a taxi or rent a car to drive to Puerto El Carmen. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Manta to Jipijapa and then transfer to a bus to Puerto El Carmen.
If you are coming from Quito or Guayaquil, you can take a bus to Jipijapa and then transfer to a bus to Puerto El Carmen. The trip from Quito takes approximately 7-9 hours while the trip from Guayaquil takes about 4-6 hours.
It's always best to confirm your travel plans with the transportation providers, as schedules and routes may vary depending on the season and availability.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Puerto El Carmen, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Puerto El Carmen

Puerto El Carmen is a small fishing village located on the coast of Ecuador, so its cuisine is heavily influenced by the seafood culture. Here are some typical foods of Puerto El Carmen with a short description for each of them: 1. Ceviche: This is the most famous dish of Puerto El Carmen. It is made from marinated raw fish, onions, tomatoes, and cilantro. The fish is cooked with lime juice and served cold.
2. Encebollado: This is a popular soup made from fish, onions, yucca, and spices. It is a perfect dish for breakfast or lunch and can be found in most of the local restaurants.
3. Arroz con Menestra y Lomo: This is a typical Ecuadorian dish made of rice, lentils, and fried pork. It is usually served with fried plantains and avocado.
4. Seco de Chivo: This is a stew made of goat meat cooked slowly with onions, tomatoes, garlic, and spices. It is usually served with rice and fried plantains.
5. Corviche: This is a savory pastry made of mashed green plantains, stuffed with fish or seafood and spices, and fried to perfection.
6. Churrasco: Grilled steak served with rice, beans, and French fries.
7. Empanadas: Fried or baked pastries stuffed with cheese, meat, or chicken. They are usually served as snacks or appetizers.
8. Bolón de Verde: This is a type of fritter made of mashed green plantains, stuffed with cheese or meat and fried till crispy.
9. Patacones: Fried plantains, mashed and refried, and served with a side of cheese and avocado.
10. Sango de Camarones: This is a spicy shrimp soup made with peanuts, yucca, onions, and cilantro. It is a perfect comfort food during cold seasons.
You can find general info about typical foods in Ecuador here.

Is Puerto El Carmen an expensive destination for tourists?

Puerto El Carmen, also known as San Lorenzo, is a small fishing village located in the coastal province of Esmeraldas in Ecuador. It is not a traditionally touristy destination and can be considered relatively inexpensive compared to other more popular beach destinations in the country.
However, prices can vary depending on the season and the type of accommodation or activities you choose. During peak season (December to January and July to August), prices may increase. It is worth noting that some services might not be available or may have operational changes during low season (May to June and September to November).
It is recommended to research and compare prices beforehand and to be aware of common tourist scams. Overall, Puerto El Carmen can be a budget-friendly destination for those looking for a relaxed, off-the-beaten-path beach experience.

Where to find accomodation in Puerto El Carmen

Puerto El Carmen is a small town located in the province of Manabi in Ecuador. There are several areas nearby where you can find accommodations to visit Puerto El Carmen. These areas include the city of Manta, the town of Montecristi, and the beach town of San Jacinto. Additionally, there are several beach resorts and hotels located along the coastline between Manta and Portoviejo that may be suitable for those looking for more upscale accommodations. It is recommended to check for accommodations that are close to the beach and offer easy access to the main tourist attractions in Puerto El Carmen.
You can check hotel prices at Puerto El Carmen here:
Booking.com

Is Puerto El Carmen a safe destination for tourists?

Puerto El Carmen in Ecuador is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, like any other tourist destination, visitors are advised to take precautions to ensure their safety. Here are some tips to keep in mind: 1. Be aware of your surroundings: Stay alert and be conscious of your surroundings when you are walking around the town.
2. Avoid walking alone at night: It is recommended to avoid walking alone at night or in areas that are not well-lit.
3. Stick to the tourist areas: Stick to the well-known tourist areas and avoid venturing into isolated or unfamiliar areas.
4. Be cautious with your valuables: Keep your valuable belongings like mobile phone, camera, and money close to you and be cautious while using them in public.
5. Trustworthy Tour Operators: Always opt for verified and certified tour operators for your trips to avoid scammers or potential scams.
By following these simple tips, you can enjoy a safe and pleasant trip to Puerto El Carmen in Ecuador.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Ecuador here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Puerto El Carmen.

What type of travelers will enjoy Puerto El Carmen the most?

Puerto El Carmen, also known as Puerto Cayo, is a beautiful coastal town in Ecuador. It's an ideal destination for anyone looking to relax by the beach, enjoy nature, and experience the local culture. Couples and families will both enjoy the stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and relaxed atmosphere of Puerto El Carmen. The town is known for its quiet and tranquil vibes, making it an excellent place to unwind and escape from the daily hustle and bustle. Families can bond over activities like snorkeling, horseback riding, and hiking, while couples can enjoy romantic walks on the beach and intimate dinners.
Young people looking for adventure and excitement might not find as much to do in Puerto El Carmen compared to other destinations in Ecuador. However, the town does offer opportunities for water sports like surfing and kayaking, and there are plenty of bars and restaurants to enjoy. In summary, Puerto El Carmen is a great destination for couples and families looking for a quiet beach getaway, but might not be the best choice for young people seeking a nightlife scene.

How to get around Puerto El Carmen

In Puerto El Carmen, you can move around by taxi, bus, or motorcycle taxis, locally known as "moto-taxis." Taxis are the most common form of transportation and are available throughout the town. Buses also run between towns and are a more affordable option but may not run as frequently. Moto-taxis are a faster option for short trips but can be dangerous and are not recommended for long journeys.

What to see around Puerto El Carmen

Sure, here are some nice places that can be visited in a day trip from Puerto El Carmen, Ecuador: 1. Hacienda Zuleta - This historic hacienda is located about 90 minutes east of Puerto El Carmen, and features horseback riding, hiking, and birdwatching.
2. Otavalo Market - This famous indigenous market is about 2 hours north of Puerto El Carmen, and offers a colorful display of traditional crafts, textiles, and food.
3. Cuicocha Lake - This scenic crater lake is located about 2 hours north of Puerto El Carmen, and is ideal for hiking, birdwatching, and boat tours.
4. Mindo Cloud Forest - This biodiversity hotspot is about 2 hours west of Puerto El Carmen, and offers world-class birdwatching, hiking, and adventure activities like ziplining.
5. Papallacta Hot Springs - These natural hot springs are located about 2.5 hours southeast of Puerto El Carmen, and are known for their therapeutic properties and stunning mountain views.
6. Cotopaxi National Park - This stunning national park is about 3 hours south of Puerto El Carmen, and offers hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and climbing opportunities, as well as breathtaking views of the Cotopaxi volcano.
For every travel information about Ecuador you can click here.

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