Esmeraldas city
 Located in the mouth of the Emeraldas river is the
city of Esmeraldas, average temperature 23 Grads Celcius. This city of
416.272 inhabitants is the capital of the province of the same name
and enjoys a tropical warm climate year round. It is the principal
port of the north of the country and possesses the largest refinery of
Ecuador. Agricultural products, trade, wood, and the refinery are the
base of the economy in Esmeraldas. It is also an important tourist
center for national tourism and access to the stupendous beaches
northward of Tola and southward until Muisne.
The Esmeraldas province is called the " green
province" for the incredible plant-life of the forests. Despite
the location in the coast, with it's main rivers: Esmeraldas,
Cayapas, Santiago, Quininde, Viche, these forest are less dense
and in the southern part you will find dry tropical forests. The
Emeraldas name originates from the first Spaniards that disembarked in
these coasts in 1526 and saw that the Indian chiefs of Atacames were
carrying gold and emerald jewels. These precious stones probably
originated from trade or wars with other groups from different
sectors.
The population is predominantly of black race. Originating from slaves
that were brought in a ship from Panama in 1553. The ship crashed into
a reef and the slaves were sent to seek food, but never returned. The
Spanish died of hunger and diseases, while the new esmeraldeños that
escaped were established and formed a well organized community that
prospered during more than 50 years. The African cultural influence is
very strong and is observed very much in the music, dances, clothing,
gastronomy, religion, magic and social organization. |
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The music has Afro-American paces with the marimba
as characteristical instrument. Percussion instruments, such as the
bass-drums, maracas, and drums are also popular. The music is always
accompanied with those which prefer frantic paces that invite everyone
to dance. The food is very rich, assorted, and is based on fish, rice,
seafood, fried and familiar banana coconut sauces. The women dress
with brilliant colors and preserve the usage of carrying baskets and
jugs on their heads. There also exists a complex spiritual world with
catholic religion mixtures, budu, magic, with strong beliefs in what
is supernatural.
 Esmeraldas’ beaches are undoubtedly one of its main attractions. Atacames, an all-year-round tourist resort, is just 30 km from the
city Esmeraldas. Atacames’ well-developed tourist infrastructure and
plethora of seaside restaurants, bars make it a great beach
destination for relaxing. It’s markets selling locally made
handicrafts, jewelry, and coral products make Atacames a great place
for an affordable shopping spree, as well.
Five km further south is the quiet fishing village of Súa,
which is also a great destination with comfortable hotels and
delicious cuisine.
Forty eight km to the south lies the island of Muisne, known
for its unspoiled beaches and tranquil waters.
Continuing southeast for another 11km, we arrive in Same, nestled
among palm trees and set along a strip of coast known for its
crystal-clear water.
Other popular beaches include Playa Ancha and Tonsupa, located
20 km from the city of Esmeraldas. There are more beaches to the
north, towards the Colombian border, namely Camarones, Colope, and Río
Verde, all of which are small fishing villages.
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