Discover Ecuador’s remarkable nature, history, culture, art, and cuisine surrounded by the epic volcanoes of the Andes Mountains, the gorgeous beaches of the Pacific Coast, the lush rainforests of the Andean Chocó, the remarkable tributaries of the Amazon, and the unbelievable species of the Galapagos Islands.
Ecuador is a magical country in South America. Though relatively small, it is culturally and biologically diverse, offering unparalleled treasures everywhere you go. Enjoy each region to its fullest; from its climate to its culture and everything in between. Each place has a story, and you’ll love getting to know these iconic destinations.
Based on the feedback from our experts, guides, and guests, the following are our Best Places to Visit in Ecuador (in addition to the Galapagos), so make sure at least one of the following is included in your itinerary!
Quito has an impressive Historic Quarter that was among the first to be declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the Old Town, you can visit and learn about the Presidential Palace and the value of Ecuador’s Colonial-era art and architecture, which is on full display in the many churches, museums, and picturesque streets like La Ronda.
The Andean Chocó is one of the most biologically diverse places on the planet. The Chocó is a “biodiversity hotspot” and UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Because of the altitude, climate, and vegetation, the area is host to several fascinating and delicate ecosystems that are teeming with life, much of which is endemic to the region. The lush verdant forests are a focus of many research and conservation efforts.
Cuenca has it all! History and archaeology, music and dance, language and lore, literature and gastronomy, architecture and arts-and-crafts, a bustling street life and a booming culinary scene. Culture courses through this southern Andean gem of a city that has long been hailed as the “Athens of Ecuador”, where the Panama hat was first created. Its Historical Center was added to the UNESCO World Heritage Site list in 1999. So, explore!
You can pick and choose from our itinerary ideas, but tours can be combined to your liking. Ask about our list of full-day tours in the city and its surroundings.
Imbabura province is known mainly for the town of Otavalo, home to Ecuador’s most famous crafts market. Thousands of locals and tourists converge on the plaza in the center of the town to shop for some of the most beautiful textiles, handicrafts, leather goods, and jewelry! But Imbabura’s allure goes beyond Otavalo: it boasts historic haciendas nestled in the majestic Andes, artisans’ workshops showcasing centuries-old crafts, and if you choose to venture further up north to the province of Carchi, you can observe the breathtaking natural beauty of the El Angel Ecological Reserve with its unique paramo ecosystems. Not all those who wander are lost; some just fell in love with the Northern Andes and chose to stay here for as long as possible!
Known as the “Pearl of the Pacific,” this vibrant and engaging port city proudly embraces its rich cultural heritage and contemporary life. Roam through its colorful Las Peñas neighborhood, where cobblestone streets tell tales of the past and enjoy first-class exquisite cuisine. Discover some of its lush, enchanting rural haciendas nearby, the perfect plan to unwind and escape into the luxuriant countryside. Guayaquil invites you to embark on a memorable journey for all the senses.
Cotopaxi is an active stratovolcano located in the Andes Mountains of Ecuador. At 19,347 feet (5,897 meters), it is one of the highest active volcanoes in the world. The volcano has a unique conical shape and is surrounded by stunning landscapes, including the Cotopaxi National Park.
The Enchanted Isles are home to wildlife you won’t see anywhere else. They and their surrounding waters comprise two protected areas: the Galapagos National Park and the Galapagos Marine Reserve. The Park certifies naturalist guides to lead small expedition groups on excursions throughout the archipelago.
The world is so agitated with the immediacy and thousands of occupations, forgetting to enjoy nature, the peace it gives you, the ability to explore and feel biodiversity, and the moment of learning to live from an unforgettable experience.
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