Mompiche
Mompiche is a small fishing village at the south end of a large fish hook shaped bay about a two-hour drive south of the much larger city of Esmeraldas, Ecuador. Mompiche is a quiet little pueblo which attracts backpackers, tourists and surfers seeking uncrowded beaches. A lazy fishing village on a beautiful Pacific beach, this town is perfect for a romantic getaway, soul searching or finally focusing on that novel you've been carrying around in your head for years.
The province of Esmeraldas is the nest of Ecuador’s Afro-Ecuadorian culture. Mompiche has a distinctly jungle-like feel, with big leafy trees intermingling with palms and brightly colored tropical flowers. In fact, it is located within the biologically diverse Chocó tropical forest, which extends along the coast from Panama to Peru. Mompiche is the ultimate out-of-the way destination for eco-tourists and others seeking peaceful solitude to commune with nature.
Mompiche is a place where time is measured more by the day’s surfing tides than by the clock, a place where being barefoot is the norm and a place where hammocks greatly outnumber chairs. Several sandy paths weave through town, where thatched-roof bamboo huts serve as basic hostels, restaurants or makeshift surfing schools. A few scattered stands offer freshly cut coconuts, batidos (milkshakes) made with tropical fruits in any combination and cervezas. If you like bananas and plantains then you will find yourself in heaven. You'll find these ingredients in an amazing amount of uses and present at almost every meal.
Mompiche is a relaxing place to spend a few nights and to decompress. Many travelers have come for a couple days and remained for a couple weeks longer. Mompiche is neither expensive nor luxurious. There is no potable water or sewer systems. Local homes are made of bamboo, thatch and wood and while some have a well for fresh water, indoor plumbing is a rare. There are a number of local hotels and hostels and guesthouses which cater to tourists. These offer a variety of experiences from rustic to luxurious and you'll find lodging prices available for budget travelers and honeymooners.
Local activities include surfing lessons, swimming, boat tours of nearby islands and mangroves, a beautiful black sand beach within walking distance, fishing, whale watching and simply relaxing in the sun with a cold Pilsener. Mompiche will grow on you just as it has on many previous visitors. It isn't just a destination, but also a way of life. That's why the town's name has become a verb "Mompicheando" which means to take things slow and easy and always with a smile.
Location
Located in the south of the Esmeraldas region of North Western Ecuador. It is located at the south end of a bay encompassing the city of San Francisco at the north, Muisne and La Mancha at center, and Mompiche at the south.
Coordinates: 0°30′N 80°01′W / 0.500°N 80.017°W