A PATH TO PARADISE
For adventure and nature lovers, one of our favorite destinations on the Spondylus Route is the El Rocio Ecotourism Trail. Within the Machalilla National Park, 20 minutes from Puerto Cayo (at km 42), you will find trails that take you through the dry forest until you reach a hidden beach with rock formations, water jets and breathtaking scenery of the Pacific Ocean.
CHOOSE YOUR ADVENTURE
There are two routes in El Rocío, a long route and a short route. Before starting either route, at the entrance, you will be given information about the place, permitted activities, restrictions and recommendations.
AN UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE
150 meters from the viewpoint, the long route begins along a 1.9km path through the dry forest, with natural viewpoints and extraordinary landscapes.
During the walk you will be able to observe local flora and fauna, from ancient trees (such as a 300-year-old mullein) to birds such as frigates and other endemic species.
The path reaches, between cliffs, Playa Dorada, a private and serene beach. From here, you can see the rocky cliff where you can see “the monkey’s head” and two stone hearts resting on the sand. If you visit El Rocío during whale season (late July to early September), you will probably You can admire them from this beach.
The tour continues along the coast for approximately 1.4km, until reaching “the giant feet,” rock platforms full of marine life such as crabs, urchins and corals. During your exploration, you will find natural pools among the rocks that invite you to immerse yourself, relax and enjoy… In addition, when the tide goes out you can explore fascinating caves and when it rises, another natural wonder emerges: natural vents are formed that launch jets of water (for the impact of water with the cliff), similar to a geyser.
The route continues with a 10 m climb up the “cabo commando” and a path will take you back.
The short route consists of the path to the beach (1.4km), the exploration of the coast and then the climb along the same path. During the tour you will find a viewpoint and rest area.
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR RESPONSIBLE TOURISM
- Follow the marked trails and avoid straying off the path. This helps to protect the flora and fauna of the park.
- Take all your garbage with you and do not leave any trace of your passage.
- Respect wildlife. Do not approach or feed the animals.
- Avoid making excessive noise. Peace and quiet are part of the charm of this place.
- Respect other visitors. Share the trail, yield when necessary and keep your voice low.
MORE INFORMATION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Hours: Monday through Sunday from 7 am to 7 pm.
Admission: $5-$10 cash depending on the trail.
Activities allowed: hiking, wildlife viewing, camping, guided and self-guided tours, photography, cave exploration (low tide).
Facilities: tour guide, lookout point, trailhead, camping area, parking lot, security guard.
Climate: average temperature 23 °C. Dry season from June to November, rainy season from December to May.
Flora: barbasco, palo santo, muyuyo, porotillo, etc.
Fauna: sea urchins, frigate birds, sea cucumber, etc.
What to bring: comfortable shoes, cap or hat, light clothing (ideally that dries easily), thermos flask, bathing suit, microfiber towel, binoculars, camera.
Contact: +593 99 549 1691 (Google Maps)
Location: El Rocío Ecotourism Trail
Registered visit April 2021
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