Ruta del Sol Cycling Tour Pedernales to Same
Ecuador "Sun Route" Follows Pristine Beaches with some Boat Travel
Apr 6, 2009
The Ruta del Sol offers a unique cycling experience as it takes cyclists exploring South America through three of Ecuador's coastal provinces, along unspoiled beaches and through tropical forests. Depending on the cyclist's experience, it may take from 9–12 days to cover the entire route, from Salinas in the south to Same in the north. The route can be divided into three principal legs:
- Salinas-Manta,
- Manta-Pedernales,
- and Pedernales-Same.
Preparation for Cycling Along Ecuadorian Coast
Along with general preparation for any cycling tour, cyclists of the Ruta del Sol should take a few precautions due to local conditions.
- The route should be traveled from south to north during the months of July to November. During this time of the year the winds blow from south to north and the weather is much cooler.
- Bring enough water and energy bars or other energy-rich foods.
- Bring sunglasses and sunscreen to stay well protected from the potent equatorial sun.
Cycling Along Unspoiled Beaches: Pedernales to Cojimíes
From Pedernales the Ruta del Sol continues on to Cojimíes along the beach. It is important to coordinate the schedule of the tides well, as this stretch must be taken at low tide. There are many beautiful, peaceful beaches along this part of the route.
The first destination is Cojimíes, a rustic fishing village in the province of Manabí. Despite its beautiful beaches, it is not a popular destination for tourists. The beaches are quiet and uncrowded, however, and there is a good surf.
Sustainable Tourism in Ecuador: Cojimíes to Mompiche
As the route continues, cyclists will have to take a small motorboat to Portete. It is important to note that after negotiating prices, along with wait and travel time, arrival to Portete may not be until midday. Once in Portete, however, the trail continues north on a secondary road to Mompiche for approximately a half hour to an hour.
Mompiche is worth a stop, as it is slowly becoming a destination on the tourist lists. The beach is unspoiled and the community has been taking measures to create sustainable tourism in the region. This beach is hugely popular with surfers, with some of the best surfing waves in the area from November to April. It is also a popular destination for whale watching. With all the great things to do in Mompiche, as well as nice resorts and hotels, it is a good place to stay overnight and prepare for the last leg of the journey.
Cycling Along the Popular Beaches of Esmeraldas Province, Ecuador: Mompiche to Same
The last leg of the Ruta del Sol is also one of the longest. Cyclists should get an early start on the day since there will be some boat travel required as well.
The first part of the trip will take cyclists along the beach to Las Manchas. From here they will need to take a boat to Muisne, a small island right off the coast of Esmeraldas Province. From Muisne there is a short canoe ride to the mainland. The route continues north to Cape San Francisco and on to Same by a dirt road.
More experienced cyclists may like to continue on to the port city of Esmeraldas, although due to the heavy traffic along the highway it is not recommended.
From Same a bus can be taken to Esmeraldas City and then on to any other city in Ecuador. The capital city of Quito (and the nearest international airport) is about a 5-hour bus ride away.
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