Guayaquil's José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport (GYE) is the natural gateway to Ayampe. From there it's about 3 hours by road to the town. Here are your options.
Option 1: Rental car or your own vehicle
The most flexible if you want to explore the coast. Take the coastal highway and then the Ruta del Spondylus (E15) north, past Montañita and Olón to Ayampe. The road is in good shape and scenic. With a car you have the freedom to visit Los Frailes, Puerto López and nearby beaches.
Option 2: Bus
Cheap and frequent. From Guayaquil's main bus terminal, cooperatives like CLP or Manglaralto run buses up the coast (about 3 hours, $5–6). Ask to be dropped in Ayampe directly, or get off in Montañita and take a local bus (10–15 min) to the Ayampe turnoff on the highway.
Option 3: Private transfer
The hassle-free option, ideal if you're arriving with family, luggage, or after a long flight. A door-to-door transfer from Guayaquil airport to your Ayampe accommodation can be arranged in advance. It's what we recommend for guests arriving from abroad.
Reference distances from Ayampe
- Guayaquil (GYE): ~3 hours
- Montañita: 25 km (~30 min)
- Puerto López: 17 km (~20 min)
- Los Frailes: ~20 min
- Manta (MEC): ~2 hours (alternative airport to the north)
Arrival tip
If your flight lands at night, consider spending the first night near Guayaquil or arranging a private transfer; the drive is best done in daylight. Once in Ayampe, everything is within walking distance — the beach included.
