Overview
San Miguel is a small afro-Ecuadorian community in Esmeraldas Province serving as one of the bases for the Cotacachi-Cayapas Ecological Reserve, designated one of the top 10 biodiversity hotspots in the world. The local community runs an ecotourism project to help preserve the environment while offering visitors a chance to experience pristine rain forest, river ecosystems, and Afro-Ecuadorian and Chachi indigenous culture.
Budget Travel · Nature · Trekking
Before you go
Accommodation
Only the community hotel exists - US$10/person/night with shared bathroom. Book 1-2 days ahead by calling Mrs. Merlin Nazareno at 06 03035008.
Connectivity
No internet or mobile phone coverage. Landline telephone available for emergencies. Satellite WiFi at Loma Linda village 1.5 km away is unreliable.
Food
No restaurants - community meals at US$11/day. Small shop sells only basics. Bring snacks and specialty items from Borbón.
Health
No doctor in village - nearest in Zapallo Grande 30 min downstream. Very few mosquitoes. Black flies are daytime nuisance - wear long clothing.
Money
Bring sufficient cash from Borbón - there are no ATMs or banking services in San Miguel. The community hotel and meals are paid in cash.
Packing
Pack belongings in large plastic bags for the boat journey. Bring water purification tools or tablets as backup - no bottled water available.
Transport
San Miguel is accessible only by boat from Borbón - no roads or walking paths connect it to other communities. Daily boat departs Borbón at 09:30 (4 hours, US$10).
