Jambelí Beach is ideal for birdwatching and photography, as well as beach soccer, volleyball and boat trips. Migratory birds such as blue-footed boobies and frigatebirds can also be spotted there. Nature watching and beach activities thus come together in one place. Bird sightings are seasonal and not guaranteed; if you are planning an activity, check what is available locally.
Beaches and Birdlife
On Isla Santa Clara, watching seabirds and coastal birds is the main tourist attraction. While Jambelí offers several beach activities, birdwatching is the focus on the island; sightings are seasonal and not guaranteed here either. You can hire tour operators in Puerto Bolívar for the trip to Isla Santa Clara. The speedboat journey takes approximately two hours. Since availability and duration vary, check the current conditions locally.
Playa de Bajo Alto draws numerous visitors on weekends for relaxation and its varied dining options. Visitor numbers and offerings may vary by season. The coast therefore offers different options to consider when planning your trip: birdwatching, beach activities, or a weekend of relaxation and dining.
Nature and Outdoor Activities
The Bosque Petrificado de Puyango lies partly in the canton of Las Lajas in El Oro Province and partly in Loja Province. It provides habitat for more than 130 bird species and is home to specific and endemic flora and fauna. An upgrade reported on November 28, 2022, included repairs to the access road, construction of a visitor center, new trails and the installation of animated dinosaurs. Check current conditions before visiting.
Canoeing on the Río Puyango is classified as Class III under the international whitewater scale. River conditions and access vary by season; check both before setting out. This can help you choose between El Oro’s natural attractions based on whether you want to explore birdlife and biodiversity or consider an activity on the water.
Historic Sites and Viewpoints
Zaruma was declared a cultural heritage site of the State of Ecuador on September 9, 1997. This designation includes first-order protected areas as well as a historic center. Cerro El Calvario is in the canton of Zaruma at an elevation of 1,500 meters; its summit has a viewpoint offering a privileged view of the “Sultana de El Oro.” Parque Mirador del Sitio La Colina also offers panoramic views of Zaruma and a natural setting for relaxation.
Another viewpoint can be found at Parque Aventura on Cerro Pata Grande: from there, the panoramic view stretches across Piñas, the surrounding greenery and the sunsets. The park also has a large swing, presented as a landmark of adventure tourism in the region. Together, the viewpoints offer different perspectives on Zaruma and Piñas, while Parque Aventura also has a distinct connection to adventure.
Yacuviña and Zaruma’s Cuisine
Archaeologists regard the archaeological complex of Yacuviña as an ancient Inca city. The Centro de Interpretación de Yacuviña presents its history and adds an educational, sensory experience to the visit. Its museographic and educational spaces provide context for the history of the Inca and Cañari through museological concepts and archaeological and historical studies. If you plan to visit the center, check the visitor arrangements in advance.
Tigrillo is also specifically associated with Zaruma: this signature dish consists of mashed green plantains, egg, cheese and pork cracklings. Alongside the historic sites and viewpoints, it offers another way to get to know Zaruma.
Discover more destinations: Machala Canton, Huaquillas Canton, Arenillas Canton, San Pedro, El Guabo Canton, Zaruma, El Retiro, Santa Rosa, Pinas, Pasaje Canton.
Go to the main travel overview: Ecuador.
