Esmeraldas
EcuadorAw
© OpenStreetMap, CARTO
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Why visit
June to November is drier and slightly cooler, best for beach trips along the Esmeraldas coast (Atacames, Súa, Same, and Mompiche all within easy reach). The annual Festival Internacional de Música y Danza Afro in August showcases marimba and Andarele. Try encocado de pescado (fish in coconut sauce) at any seaside cevichería, the dish that defines the region.
When to avoid
Esmeraldas city itself has a reputation for petty crime and drug-trafficking-related violence, particularly near the port and after dark, most travellers prefer to stay in smaller beach towns south of the city (Atacames, Same, Mompiche) and visit the city only briefly. Check current advisories. Mosquito-borne illnesses (dengue, Zika) are present. Use repellent.