Ecuador boasts some of the most magical outdoor experiences in the world. Whether you’d prefer surfing on stunning beaches or trekking through the Amazon jungle, the fourth-smallest country in South America has it all. Despite its size, Ecuador rivals Brazil, Argentina, and Chile in terms of adventure and is easily explored by bus, boat, or plane.
Ecuador is a country packed full of bucket-list worthy adventures - world-class natural wonders such as the Galápagos, the Andes, and the Amazon Basin - as well as limitless opportunities for wildlife watching. Moreover, this compact country also has a plethora of cultural attractions to offer.
If you need a break to acclimatise to the altitude or rest after an expedition, Ecuador's cities and villages offer live music, delectable local cuisine, vibrant markets, historic architecture, and unique festivals. Here’s our guide to the best things to do in Ecuador.
No. 10 - Mindo
Mindo presents a unique opportunity for eco-conscious explorers to experience two biodiverse ecosystems - the tropical Andes and the Chocoan lowlands. These areas boast of captivating sights such as cloud forests, farmlands, and an intricate network of rivers and streams.
Being a top tourist spot in Ecuador, Mindo offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including bird-watching, rafting, mountain biking, horseback riding, and hiking. For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, a visit to El Quetzal del Mindo, a chocolatier, provides an opportunity to learn about the chocolate-making process - from the cocoa bean to the finished product.
No. 9 - The Avenue of Volcanoes
Did you know that the closest point on Earth to the sun can be found in Ecuador? This honour belongs to the Chimborazo volcano, which stands at a height of 6,263m (20,548ft). While it's not the tallest peak on the planet (that title goes to Nepal's Mt Everest), the Chimborazo volcano is actually closer to the sun than anywhere else on Earth due to the equatorial bulge phenomenon.
Chimborazo is one of the eight snow-capped peaks that make up the Avenue of Volcanoes, a range that runs down the country like a knobbly backbone. These peaks are perfect for hiking, provided you take the time to acclimatise to the dizzying altitudes. Along the way, you'll have the company of vicuña herds, a wild relative of the domesticated llama.
No. 8 - Ingapirca
To catch a glimpse of Ecuador's pre-colonial past, a visit to Ingapirca is a must. Llamas can be seen grazing amid the most well-preserved ruins in the country. Originally inhabited by the Canari people, the settlement was later conquered by the Incas. While Spanish colonizers destroyed much of the site, enough of it still stands to provide a sense of its former glory. To fully appreciate the history and significance of the ruins, consider hiring a guide. Many agencies in Cuenca offer regular trips to the site.
No. 7 - Zaruma
Zaruma, a UNESCO World Heritage Site established by the Spanish in 1595, may not be widely known, but it boasts local fame for its coffee, gold, and tigrillo (traditional Ecuadorian breakfast with mashed plantains, fresh cheese and egg). This well-preserved and charming city, surrounded by a breathtaking natural landscape brimming with native biodiversity, has an allure that feels like stumbling upon a local secret. Its aesthetics will transport you back in time, and its rich history will leave you captivated with wonder. One of the oldest cities in the country, gold mines were first discovered in Zaruma by indigenous peoples during the pre-colonial era, which remain the primary source of economic activity in the city today.
No. 6 - Otavalo
If you're looking for a vibrant market experience, head to Otavalo, where one of the most significant and colourful weekly markets in the Andes takes place. Here, you can find an array of traditional handmade crafts, including the city's renowned exquisite textiles, jewellery, and leather goods.
This market has been a cultural hub for centuries, even before the Incas. The setting is picturesque, with Ecuadorians donning their traditional attire against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains, making it a photographer's paradise. While the primary market occurs on Saturdays, travellers can still purchase handicrafts at other times in the Plaza de los Ponchos.
No. 5 - The Pacific Shoreline
When you're lounging on Ecuador's Pacific coast, sipping cocktails, the frigid Andes feel like a distant memory. The coastline boasts a plethora of stunning beaches, such as the fine stretch of shoreline in Salinas, a popular spot for locals and tourists alike with a decent nightlife scene.
For a more laid back and less developed atmosphere, head to the ramshackle beachfront village of Montañita, where cheap accommodations, great waves, and a party vibe attract a steady stream of sun-kissed backpackers. If you're looking to escape the crowds, the low-key beach towns of Ayangue, located north of Salinas, or Puerto Cayo, located north of Montañita, are worth checking out.
No. 4 - Cuenca
Cuenca, Ecuador's most stunning city, boasts a temperate climate throughout the year and some of the best-preserved colonial architecture in all of South America. Its intricate buildings, verdant plazas, and striking Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception have earned it a well-deserved spot on UNESCO's World Heritage List.
In addition to its historic charm, Cuenca also showcases a contemporary side through the impressive Museo Pumapungo, a brutalist structure that houses an excellent collection of modern art. And just beyond the city lies Cajas National Park, a rugged wildlife sanctuary that is home to alpacas, Andean condors, and giant hummingbirds. Together, these attractions offer a splendid representation of the incredible diversity that Ecuador has to offer.
No. 3 - Baños
Baños is a thrilling destination for adrenaline seekers. The Tungurahua volcano, which has been erupting lava and ash since the 1990s, is its star attraction. Despite the periodic evacuations due to the volcano's activity, residents return for the town's namesake and revered thermal baths, which are heated by the volcano. These relaxing hot springs are the perfect way to rejuvenate after a day of exploring the surrounding forests, whether it be trekking, rafting, or mountain biking.
The mesmerising waterfalls that cascade down deep river gorges also captivate tourists. Among them, the most awe-inspiring is the thunderous Pailon de Diablo waterfall, which rushes over a gorge at the confluence of Rio Verde and Rio Pastaza.
No. 2 - Quito
Nestled in a mountain valley and surrounded by volcanoes, Quito is a remarkable sight to behold. The Ecuadorian capital is a captivating blend of cultures and an architectural testament to the Spanish colonial era. For an unobstructed view, take the TelefériQo gondola up the Pichincha volcano, but allow yourself a day or two to acclimate to Quito’s high altitude before ascending to the summit.
In the meantime, appreciate the faded grandeur of the delightful, UNESCO-designated old town, and make a stop at the Museo de la Ciudad to discover more about the city’s vibrant history. Don't forget to explore the churches, as Quito boasts one of the most extensive collections of old churches in South America, with the Basílica del Voto Nacional and the opulent Church of la Compañía de Jesús being among the most remarkable.
Quito’s markets are also a must-see. Observe shamanic healers at work at Mercado San Francisco, then savour local delicacies such as locro de papas (potato stew), roasted guinea pig, and cow's feet soup. And when the sun sets, make your way to La Ronda, a former red-light district turned entertainment zone, where you can enjoy live music and cosy bars.
No. 1 - The Galapagos
The Galapagos Islands, a stunning archipelago of 19 islands situated on the equator approximately 600 miles west of Ecuador, served as the source of inspiration for Charles Darwin’s Theory of Natural Selection. These islands, isolated from the mainland, are home to exceptional wildlife that can't be found anywhere else in the world. Among these unique species are marine iguanas, giant tortoises, frigate birds, fur seals, red-footed and blue-footed boobies, Christmas iguanas, colourful lava lizards, and the Galapagos Penguin.
Previously used as a penal colony, the Galapagos Islands became a national park in 1959, and today they are a popular tourist destination. Santa Cruz, one of the most frequented islands, is home to giant tortoises, lava tubes, and the Charles Darwin Research Centre, as well as numerous hotels and tour operators. Fernandina boasts a diverse range of wildlife, including flightless cormorants, marine iguanas, sea lions, dolphins, and whales. San Cristobal features the stunning rock formation known as Kicker Rock, while Isabela is the archipelago's largest island, with numerous volcano trails. Plaza Sur is home to a vast colony of sea lions, while Wolf and Darwin Islands are renowned as two of the world's best diving destinations. Baltra, which houses the airport and a few souvenir shops, is also included among the islands.
Despite being home to only a few populations, there are a few towns on the archipelago with restaurants, bars, and hotels, including Puerto Ayora, Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, and Puerto Villamil. Cruising is the only way to explore the islands. Numerous tour operators work out of Quito, Guayaquil, and Puerto Ayora, offering boat options ranging from small yachts to luxury cruise ships, and tours ranging from one day to several days.
Thanks for reading! We hope you enjoyed our guide to the best places to visit in Ecuador. We'd love to hear your feedback in the comments and do let us know your favourite places to visit in Ecuador.
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