Understand

Escape the beaten path and immerse yourself in the beauty of Punta Gorda Reserve, located just a short 5-mile beach walk from Bahia de Caraquez. This hidden gem offers a retreat from the bustling bus lines, providing an opportunity to connect with nature and the last remnants of the Tropical Dry Forest. The Cabin Tortuguita Small Turtle provides a breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean, perched high on a cliff. In this reserve, you can explore ancient pottery-laden fields, embark on invigorating hikes, maintain the pristine trails, try your hand at fishing with the only subsistence fishing family for miles, test your skills on the provided surfboard, or simply unwind in the hammocks, feeling the cool breeze caress your face.

Get in

Planning a trip to Bahia de Caraquez in Ecuador? There are convenient bus options to get you there from Quito and Guayaquil. If you're starting from Quito, the bus ride takes about 7-8 hours and can be done during the day or night. There are regular and executive services available, with the executive service being more comfortable and safer. The security measures on these buses are top-notch, with thorough frisking before boarding. Don't forget to bring a sweater and a blanket, as the air conditioning on the bus can get very cold. If it's too chilly, simply inform the driver, and they'll adjust the temperature for you. In Quito, the bus operator "Reina del Camino" has two offices: one at Terminal Terrestre Quitumbre in the south of Quito and another at 18 de Septiembre and Av. Patria close to the junction of Av. Patria and 10 de Agosto. While you can buy tickets for all services at 18 de Septiembre, the only service that actually departs from there is the executive night bus at 11 pm. When arriving at the main bus station, make sure to keep a close eye on your belongings and avoid distractions. If you're traveling during the day, try to secure a seat on the right-hand side of the bus to enjoy breathtaking views. For bus schedules and more information, visit AndesTransit at [link=https://andestransit.com]https://andestransit.com[/link].

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Ceviche is a traditional Ecuadorian dish that consists of fresh fish marinated in citrus juices, typically lime or lemon, and mixed with onions, cilantro, and chili peppers. It is often served chilled and enjoyed as a refreshing appetizer.

Heart of Palm Soup, known as "Sopa de Palo," is a comforting and filling soup native to Ecuador. It features heart of palm, a vegetable harvested from the core of certain palm trees, along with potatoes, carrots, and other vegetables in a savory chicken broth.

Empanadas are a beloved snack or meal in Ecuador, consisting of a savory or sweet filling enclosed in a thin, doughy shell, typically made from wheat flour. Empanadas can be found throughout the country and feature varied fillings, such as cheese, chicken, seafood, or vegetables.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing