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Adventure, nature, culture and gastronomy in a single destination. Explore the Amazon rainforest, climb volcanoes, meet indigenous communities, taste the delicious gastronomy and immerse yourself in the crystal clear waters of the Galapagos. An unforgettable experience that combines the best of adventure, nature, culture and rich culinary diversity!

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Ecuador Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 1, 2023

Offering stunning landscapes, the country also boasts delicious food, plentiful mountains, and hospitable people.

It’s also home to the bucket-list-worthy Galapagos Islands, one of the country’s main draws and home to rare and iconic wildlife.

But there is much more to Ecuador than the Galapagos.

Adventure lovers will be keen to explore the Ecuadorian Amazon or climb one of the country’s many volcanoes, including the world-famous Cotopaxi Mountain.

This tiny country packs a lot of punch and this Ecuador travel guide can help you make the most of your trip.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Ecuador

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in ecuador.

1. Enjoy Quito

Ecuador’s capital is beautiful and energetic. Head to the city’s Old Town to see its historic colonial past. Quito also has plenty of colorful markets to explore with vendors selling incredible indigenous crafts, art, textiles, and delicious local food. The city’s largest and oldest church, Monasterio de San Francisco, features some of the original tilework from its construction in the 16th century and a staircase that was originally designed for the Vatican. Quito is the closest major city to the equator as well, so you can straddle the line and be in both hemispheres at once!

2. Hike Cotopaxi Mountain

Cotopaxi is Ecuador’s second-highest mountain and was the world’s highest volcano until the Chilean volcano Tupungato erupted in 1986. This 12,500-foot-tall snow-capped monster is popular with hikers and mountain bikers. Climbing the entire mountain usually takes about two days and is considered moderately difficult due to the steep climbs and high altitude. It’s best for experienced hikers and climbers who have some training. There are plenty of shorter hikes available, however, including the short (but steep) walk to the first refuge at the base of the volcano. Guided day trips range from $50-90 USD per person.

3. Explore the Galapagos Islands

There are few places in the world that offer wildlife spotting opportunities as good as the Galapagos Islands. The Galapagos Islands were formed from active volcanoes and they’re most famous for being the birthplace of Darwin’s theory of evolution during his visit in 1835. From marine iguanas and Galapagos penguins and sea lions to orcas, manta rays, and the Giant Galapagos tortoise (some tortoises are more than five feet long), these islands are teeming with a wide variety of life. Book a multi-day visit to make the most of your time. While not cheap, it’s worth every penny!

4. Adventure in Ibarra

Located 90 minutes outside of Quito, Ibarra is perfect for adventure travel and indigenous visits. It’s a beautiful city with quaint cobblestone streets and colonial-style whitewashed buildings surrounded by the Andes Mountains. Consider rafting, swing jumping, trekking, climbing, kayaking, and more. Don’t leave without trying their handmade ice cream — it’s a local delicacy made in bronze bowls with fruit, sugar, and ice.

5. See the Amazon rainforest

Approximately half of Ecuador is covered in the Amazon rainforest. There are five National Parks located within Ecuador’s Amazon jungle. Yasuni National Park is believed to be the most biodiverse place on the planet and has been named a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. Over 1,000 species of animals can be found in the forests and lagoons of the Ecuadorian Amazon, including tapirs, monkeys, jaguars, and ocelots. Temperatures in the Amazon remain hot year-round, and it might rain at any time, but if you’re prepared it’s possible to visit year-round. Ecuador offers one of the quickest routes to the Amazon in South America. A day trip costs $150 USD while multi-day tours start at $350 USD.

Other Things to See and Do in Ecuador

1. see baños.

This small town lies high in the Andes and on the hillside of Ecuador’s most active volcano, Tungurahua. Besides the fantastic volcano treks, visitors also flock to Baños to experience the healing powers of its hot springs and to give thanks for miracles performed at the Church of the Virgin of the Holy Water. It’s also the country’s adventure capital, with lots of biking, white water rafting, bungee jumping, ATV rentals, and a circuit of beautiful waterfalls to visit. Prices vary, but activities are not expensive. Bungee jumping, for example, is only $20 USD, while white water rafting is just $30 USD for a half-day trip.

2. Wander the Otavalo Market

Otavalo, located less than 100 kilometers (60 miles) from Quito, is Ecuador’s most famous indigenous market. Handicrafts, jewelry, necklaces, musical instruments, and clothing are just a few of the things you can buy at this expansive market, one of the largest in all of Latin America. It’s open daily from 7am-6pm, but it’s best to arrive early in the day.

3. Visit Cuenca

Cuenca is Ecuador’s third-largest city. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Cuenca has colonial buildings, churches, and cathedrals that are extremely photogenic. The city is also thought to be Ecuador’s intellectual capital and has been dubbed the “Athens of the Andes.” Activities range from climbing the towers of Cathedral de la Inmaculada, for a stunning view of the city for only $2.50 USD to pampering yourself at Piedra de Agua with a relaxing soak in the heated mineral baths ($15 USD for 3 hours). Be sure to stroll through Mercado de las Flores (Flower Market) to take in the local pace of life.

4. Explore Ingapirca

Ingapirca is Ecuador’s premier Inca site and is located in the Canar Province, near Guayaquil and the country’s Pacific coast. Dating to the 15th century (not long before the Spanish arrived), the crowning glory of the site is the Temple of the Sun, which is a circular building made of intricately carved stones so as to fit together without mortar. There is also a burial site and a series of low walls which are ruins from various other historic buildings. A guided tour costs $45-50 USD.

5. Relax in Montañita

This surfer’s paradise is a relatively new addition to Ecuador’s list of attractions, although its reputation for pristine beaches and perfect waves has been growing steadily over the years. This is a proper backpacker’s paradise with laid-back beach parties, live bands, and inexpensive accommodations. A week-long surf camp (including lessons, accommodation, and food) costs as little as $500 USD.

6. Go whale watching in Puerto Lopez

One of the many tourist towns that lay along the coast is Puerto Lopez. Not so much of a surfing spot, it’s known instead for its incredible whale watching season. Witness the humpback whales in action, and then check out the blue footed boobies (a very rare bird species) at La Plata island (also referred to as “the poor man’s Galapagos” as the same animals found in the Galapagos are also on La Plata). Full-day tours that combine whale watching and an island visit cost $35–45 USD (plus a $15 USD national park fee).

7. Learn Spanish

There are hundreds of places to take a language course in this country if you’re looking to improve your language skills. If you are going to visit for a prolonged period of time, it might be a good idea to take a couple of lessons. Two top-rated schools are Yanapuma Spanish School and Simon Bolivar Spanish School, which have locations in Quito as well as other cities around the country. Each class is about four hours long, with prices ranging from $6-12 USD per hour. Courses run anywhere from 1-4 weeks long so you can pick an option that suits your budget and language needs.

8. Explore the lava tubes

North of Puerto Ayora, there are tons of underground tunnels that have been formed from molten lava. For $3.50 USD, you can take a self-guided tour or pay more to go with a guide. It’s pretty freaky being in these huge lava tubes but pretty amazing too and something you won’t really find in other destinations.

Ecuador Travel Costs

Accommodation – Accommodation is inexpensive in Ecuador. Dorms start around $6 USD per night, while a private room ranges from $10-50 USD. Free Wi-Fi is standard, and many hostels also include free breakfast.

For those traveling with a tent, camping is available all around the country. Campground prices vary but can be found for as little as $5 USD. Most national parks have spots in or around them.

Budget hotels are only slightly more expensive than hostels, with prices starting around $25 USD per night. Free Wi-Fi and free breakfast are common. For a hotel with a pool, prices start at $30-40 USD per night.

Airbnb is also available, with shared accommodation starting at $15-20 USD per night. For an entire home or apartment, expect prices to begin around $25 USD (though prices average closer to $50 USD).

Food – The local fare of Ecuador features ilapinchagos (fried potato cakes stuffed with cheese), ceviche , empanadas, arroz con pollo (chicken with rice) , and cuy (roasted guinea pig). Seafood is common, owing to its location on the ocean. Potatoes with roasted pig is a popular dish in the mountainous regions, while cassava (also known as yuca) is a common staple near the jungle.

Traditional meals typically cost between $3-5 USD. You can find food stalls on the street for around $1-2 USD. Western-style meals cost around $10-12 USD.

For a meal at a mid-range restaurant, expect to spend around $20 USD per person.

Beer is just $2.50 USD while a latte/cappuccino is $2.34 USD. Bottled water is $0.60 USD.

If you’re planning on shopping in the markets and grocery stores, you can expect to spend around $20-30 USD per week on basic groceries like bread, milk, eggs, cheese, chicken, fruit, and veggies.

Backpacking Ecuador Suggested Budgets

On a backpacking budget of $30 USD per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, eat some street food and cook some meals, take a free walking tour, and use public transportation to get around. If you plan on drinking, add $5-10 USD per day to your budget.

On a mid-range budget of $105 USD per day, you can stay in a decent hotel, eat out for all your meals, take the occasional taxi to get around, enjoy a few drinks, paid tours, and visit most museums.

On a “luxury” budget of $245 USD per day, you can stay in a top hotel, rent a car or take more taxis, eat out anywhere you want, and take as many tours as you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in USD.

Ecuador Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Ecuador is an affordable destination, however, it never hurts to save money! Here are a few tips to cut down your costs during your visit:

• Stay at hospedajes – These family-run guesthouses are all over the country and have rooms for just a few dollars per night. They’re one of the cheapest options available for accommodation.
• Eat at the markets – This is the place to do your food shopping. You can find meals (or buy groceries) for just a few dollars, making this the best way to eat cheaply in the country!
• Embrace almuerzos – Many restaurants have almuerzos , cheap lunches from a set menu. These are usually just a couple of dollars and usually include a drink. If you want to eat out for cheap, this is a great choice.
• Carry small change – Forget about carrying any bills over $20 USD as you’ll have trouble changing them — even $20s can be difficult to break in small towns. Keep change on hand for smaller purchases.
• Book last minute tours – Galapagos cruises are expensive. By booking your tour in Quito last minute, you can save up to 40% off the cost of the trip. You can also just fly there and see what is around too. If you’re flexible in when you go and can wait around for a spot to open, this is the cheapest option.
• Couchsurf – Use Couchsurfing to find a local who can host you for free. You’ll only get a free place to stay but you get to connect with a local who can share their insider tips and advice.
• Stay at a Hola Hostel – Hola Hostels is a network of hostels predominantly in South and Central America. They offer 10% off to their members, as well as other discounts for food and activities. Joining is free, and their hostels are also committed to environmentally sustainable practices.
• Pack a water bottle – A water bottle with a purifier will come particularly in handy in Ecuador since you can’t always drink the tap water. Save money and thousands of plastic bottles and get a reusable bottle that can purify the tap water for you. My preferred bottle is LifeStraw .

Where to Stay in Ecuador

Ecuador has plenty of fun and affordable hostels. Here are my top suggested places to stay while there:

• Community Hostel (Quito)
• Vibes Hostel (Quito)
• Esperanto B&B Surf Backpacker Hostel (Montanita)
• Hostel Nucapacha (Guayaquil)
• Dreamkapture Hostel (Guayaquil)

How to Get Around Ecuador

Public transportation – The bus is the most common, efficient way to get around Ecuadorian cities. A local bus ticket costs around $0.25 USD. Bus stops are really only existent in Quito — outside of the city, you’ll generally just have to flag one down and request your stop whenever it comes along.

Bus – The bus network in Ecuador is incredibly extensive, and it’s an easy way to get around the country. Most buses travel along the common backpacking routes. For the 7-hour ride from Quito to Guayaquil, expect to pay between $11-28 USD for a one-way ticket. A 20-hour ride from Quito to Bogota, Colombia costs between $80-100 USD. From Quito to Lima, Peru tickets start at $95 USD for the 29-hour ride.

Typically you can just show up at the bus station to get your ticket, but you can also use latinbus.com to look up routes and prices.

Another option is to book a hop-on/hop-off pass. These passes give you flexibility in your travel but are only available along specific routes. You can hop off and hop on at any time. Wanderbus Ecuador passes start around $249 USD for 11 stops, while longer routes can cost up to $699 USD for 20 stops.

Train – Ecuador’s national railway company shut down during the pandemic and due to lack of funding, has yet to resume operations. There are currently no trains running in Ecuador.

Flying – Flying within Ecuador is affordable, with most destinations being serviced from Quito or Guayaquil. Ecuador’s airlines are:

• Emetebe (Galápagos-based airline)

Flights from Quito to Guayaquil start at $58 USD each way. TAME will also get you to some smaller Ecuadorian destinations, like Quito to Loja for $43 USD (one-way). Flying to the Galapagos Islands is obviously the most practical way to get there, but it’s certainly not cheap. One way from Quito to Baltra (the busiest airport) starts from about $133 USD. Guayaquil to Baltra is about $155 USD. Expect prices to double if you don’t book in advance.

Car rental – Car rentals cost around $35 USD per day, however, the driving conditions are far from ideal (poor road conditions, no driving signs, etc.). Unless you have experience driving in Central or South America, I’d skip the rental as buses are much cheaper and safer.

Renters need to be at least 21 years old. For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

When to Go to Ecuador

Ecuador technically only has two seasons: the wet season and the dry season. But since Ecuador has such varying altitudes, it really depends on where/when you visit.

January to May is the coolest, wettest time of year for most of the country. Navigating the Amazon can be difficult during this time due to road closures and flooding. Temperatures along the coast are milder, and it’s actually quite pleasant in the Galapagos as the ocean waters are calm and warm.

June to the end of September is very dry, and you’ll also experience some of the warmest temperatures in Ecuador. This is peak season, so you can expect higher prices for flights and accommodations. Still, the weather is always nice and the entire country has a fun, upbeat atmosphere. Temperatures near the coast hover around 25°C (77°F), while in Quito the daily average is around 21°C (70°F).

How to Stay Safe in Ecuador

Ecuador is generally a safe place to travel around, even if you’re traveling alone or as a solo female traveler. Petty theft is the most common type of crime in Ecuador. Valuables like laptops, jewelry, and cell phones should be hidden from sight. Transport terminals are especially a hot spot for petty theft so stay vigilant.

In Quito, avoid the Old Town at night. Taxi crimes are a danger in places like Quito, Guayaquil, Manta, and Playas. The US consulate in Guayaquil even forbids its staff from hailing cabs in the street because of the risk of crime.

In a popular scam, someone will hop into your taxi with you once the journey has started and take you on a little tour of the city’s ATMs as they rob you blind. So use caution and have your accommodation call a taxi for you whenever possible.

If you’re worried about scams, read about common travel scams to avoid here .

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe in the country, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). For more information, check out one of the many solo female travel blogs on the country.

If you go out hiking, always check the weather beforehand and bring appropriate clothing, as well as water and a hat.

Always trust your gut instinct. If a taxi driver seems shady, stop the cab and get out. If your hotel is seedier than you thought, move. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID, in case of emergencies.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Ecuador Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Ecuador Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Ecuador travel and continue planning your trip:

The 13 Best Things to Do in Quito, Ecuador

Get my best stuff sent straight to you, pin it on pinterest.

• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

Ecuador 2-Week Itinerary: The Ultimate Travel Guide

Post summary: The perfect itinerary for 2 weeks in Ecuador and a detailed travel guide with everything to know about traveling in Ecuador

This post contains affiliate links, which means that I will make a small commission of the purchase you make using my links – at absolutely no cost to you! 

Are you ready for the trip of a lifetime? If so, 2 weeks in Ecuador is the perfect way to go.

If you are planning your trip to Ecuador, this is the guide for you.

Experience the best of Ecuador with this adventurous 2 week trip itinerary. 

With extraordinary views, vibrant culture, and endless opportunities to explore nature, this South American country has something for every type of adventure.

From lush jungle and sprawling grasslands to rugged coastline and active volcanoes, there are endless ways to immerse yourself in everything that Ecuador has to offer.

Whether you are visiting for 2 weeks or 2 months, this guide will tell you everything you need to know so you can make the most of your trip through one of Latin America’s most diverse and captivating countries. 

From where to hang out with the locals, to which natural wonders you definitely can’t miss, this ultimate guide to Ecuador is packed with essential tips and information to make your trip through this major Andean country something you’ll never forget. 

Table of Contents

Posts to help you prepare for your trip

19 Important Things to Know About Ecuador Before You Go

How to Use Google Maps to Plan Your Next Road Trip (Step-By-Step Tutorial With Examples)

15 Useful Apps to Download Before Your Next Road Trip (for Free!)

What to Pack for a Day Hike: Essential Gear and Complete Packing List

Best Hiking Backpacks for Women: Find the Perfect Hiking Pack for Your Next Adventure

The Perfect 2-Week Ecuador Itinerary

Ecuador is one of the most diverse countries in the world. The Amazon Basin and the Pacific Ocean straddle either side of the Andes Mountains, creating varying altitude, extreme landscapes, and four different microclimates across Ecuador.

And because Ecuador is so small, you can see a ton in a short amount of time!  

You don’t have to travel far to visit pristine beaches in the Galapagos, snow capped volcanoes in Cotopaxi, Emerald green lakes in Quilotoa, the rare cloud forests in Mindo, or the Amazon Jungle…all in a few weeks.

And let’s not forget the vibrant culture that permeates every inch of this wonderful country!

With those things in mind, I crafted this itinerary based on our own Ecuador road trip, the places that left us speechless, and the things we wish we did just a little bit differently. I included as much detail as possible in order to create THE Ecuador travel guide that I wish we had when we were planning our visit.

This is the best Ecuador itinerary if you want to see a little bit of everything – and then some! It’s also jam packed to make sure you have the most epic adventure possible.

Keep reading for an overview and detailed day-by-day outline on traveling in Ecuador.

The 2 Week Route Overview

This 2 Week Ecuador Itinerary starts and ends at Mariscal Sucre Quito International Airport (UOI) in Quito , the capital city of Ecuador.

From Quito, you will first go west to the Mindo Cloud Forest , before circling back up to Otavalo and then going south to Cotopaxi, Quilotoa and Banos .

This itinerary is best completed with a car.  However, it’s not an issue if you don’t rent a car because Ecuador has a very good bus and shuttle system. 

If you plan to take buses and shuttles, then I recommend calculating your departure and arrival times at each destination to ensure that you’ll have enough time. You willl have to adjust this itinerary accordingly.

Alternatively, each of these destinations is easily accessed via day trips and overnight trips from Quito. Just about any hotel can help you arrange that. So, it’s possible to use Quito as your home base if you wanted to avoid the public bus system altogether, if you’re a solo traveler who wants to travel with people, or if you’re just nervous about navigating Ecuador on your own. Doing it this way is easy if you don’t have a car, but you will lose a lot of time going back and forth to Quito. 

Access the interactive Google Map here

Day 1: Arrive in Quito

Day 2: Quito

Day 3: Quito to Mindo

Day 4: mindo, day 5: mindo to otavalo, day 6-7: otavalo, day 8: otavalo to cotopaxi.

Day 9: Cotopaxi

Day 10: Cotopaxi to Lake Quilotoa to Baños

Day 11-13: Baños

Day 14: Baños to Quito

Estimated total drive time: 17 hours 

Estimated total miles for this route: 569 miles (915 km)

Have extra time? Scroll down to find out how you can extend your trip in Ecuador! 

Read next: How to Plan Your Road Trip Using Google Maps

Day 1: Arrive in Quito, Ecuador

This 2-week Ecuador itinerary starts in Quito , the capital city of Ecuador.

Situated high in the Andes, in the Guayllabamba river basin, Quito is the first city in the world to be crowned a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In the 16th century, the city was rebuilt by the Spanish atop the ruins of an ancient Incan city that ruled the northern half to the Incan Empire. Today, Quito is a  vibrant city full of rich culture , well-preserved historical landmarks, and one of the best-preserved historic centers in all of South America.

Peppered throughout the city, you’ll find over two dozen historic churches, a huge variety of museums, fascinating tourist attractions, and an emerging food scene.

On day 1, fly into Mariscal Sucre Quito International Airport (UOI), which is about 45 minutes outside of the city center. Unfortunately, you probably won’t have much time to explore on the first day since most of the flights into UOI arrive at night. So just grab a ride to your hotel and wind down from your long day of travel.

Don’t forget to walk slowly once you get off the plane. Quito is the second highest capital city in the world. It sits high in the Andes Mountains, at an elevation of 9, 350 feet (2850 meters). This high altitude might cause you to feel symptoms of altitude sickness, such as short breath, nausea, or headaches. Remember to drink a lot of water and get a good nights sleep!

You’ll spend the next 1.5 days taking it easy in Quito to allow your body time to adjust to the altitude.

Where to stay in Quito

The city of Quito is split into two halves: South Quito and North Quito .

In the middle of the city is Centro histórico de Quito, or the “Old Town/Historic District” , which is where you’ll find a lot of the old historic buildings and elaborate architecture that dates back to the 1500s.

Most travelers stay at the north end of Quito, also known as the “New Town”, and in Centro Histórico (the Historic District) in the middle of the city.

Stay in Centro Histórico to be near the old churches, Plaza Grande, elaborate architecture, and all of the historic points of interest.

Stay in the New Town (North Quito)  to be near all of the lively restaurants, bars, and hostels. The best neighborhoods in the New Town are:

• La Mariscal
• La Floresta
• La Carolina

Avoid south Quito altogether.

There’s no shortage of hotels and hostels in Quito. But something I really loved about this city is the myriad of small family run boutique hotels run by friendly owners who are more than happy to help with your travel planning.

View all stays in Quito here.

• Budget: The Secret Garden Quito , Selina Quito Hostel
• Moderate: Friends Hotel , Terra Premium Boutique Hotel
• Splurge: Hotel La Basílica Quito , Hotel Casa Gangotena

I personally recommend Friends Hotel , which is located down a safe little side street in the Historic District. They charged us $30 to pick us up at the airport in the middle of the night and drive us to the hotel. And fresh breakfast was included in the stay.

Day 2: Quito, Ecuador

Welcome to your first full day in Ecuador! You will wake up in Quito, which is the perfect place to begin your adventure.

Wake up early, grab a hearty breakfast and head straight for Centro histórico de Quito, which essentially looks just like it did at the end of the colonial period, which dates back to the 1500s. 

Here are some of the best places to see in historic Quito: 

• Plaza Grande
• La Campana church
• The top of the Neo-Gothic Tower inside Basilica del Voto Nacional

For great views over the whole city take the Teleferico cable car to the Cruz Loma lookout or head to the top of Panecillo hill , where you’ll also find the massive La Virgen de Quito statue , which was constructed entirely from aluminum by Spanish artist, Agustin de la Herran Matorras.

Although some travel guides might tell you to walk up the steps of El Pancillo, it’s actually not safe to do so – the steps are a hot spot for pickpockets and muggings. So, even if you’re within walking distance, you should always err on the side of caution and take a taxi or an Uber to the top of Panceillo Hill.  

Other major attractions in Quito are the Intiñan Solar Museum and the Mitad del Mindo monument, or “center of the world”, which are supposed to be located on the Equator. However, I honestly wouldn’t waste your time going because your GPS will show you that neither one of them is even on the equator. They’re actually almost 800 feet off.

In the evening try some local food – llapingachos and empanadas are a must!

Getting around Quito

Depending where your hotel is, you can either walk, uber or hail a taxi with an orange license plate to get around.

Uber is a safe and reliable way to get around Quito. It was our preferred method of transport because it was convenient, very cheap, and we didn’t have to worry about haggling a taxi fare with our less-than-satisfactory levels of Spanish.

If you walk anywhere around Quito, always leave your valuables locked up in your hotel room.

Now that you’ve had a few days to acclimate to high altitude, you will pick up your rental car and head to the enchanting  cloud forest in Mindo.

Even though it’s only 2 hours west of Quito, Mindo is still relatively undiscovered by the masses. However, it is becoming more and more popular with locals – especially on weekends and around the holidays. On weekdays though, the tiny town remains quiet and tranquil.

The route to Mindo passes through the arid landscape of northwest Quito before snaking along mountain roads with sheer drop offs on one side and towering, forested mountains on the other. The transition is abrupt and absolutely stunning.

On the way to Mindo, stop at San Tadeo Birding , which is a small garden and hummingbird reserve perched in the mountains. You’ll pass it on your way to Mindo Valley on Route E28 ( here’s the exact location ).

San Tadeo is home to many species of hummingbirds endemic to Ecuador, as well as several species of toucans and tanagers. It’s the perfect place to see tons of birds for hardly any effort. It’s run by a nice, local woman who charges $5 (cash) per person to access the reserve.

When you arrive in Mindo, grab food at El Quetzal before checking into your hotel. Don’t forget to take a brownie for the road! They have the best brownies in the world – which I felt was a large claim…until I tasted one. And WOW – were they right.

The town is small, yet vibrant. And you can walk pretty much anywhere in about 10 minutes. However, you’ll need a car or take a taxi to get to the waterfalls and hiking trails, which are all in the mountains outside of town.

How to get from Quito to Mindo

Without stops, driving yourself from Quito to Mindo takes approximately 2 hours .

You don’t need a 4×4 to get to Mindo, but you might need a 4×4 to reach some of the trailheads  if it’s particularly rainy. If you don’t have a 4×4, you can just take a taxi truck for a few dollars from the center of town.

You also might need a 4×4 if you’re staying at one of the remote Airbnbs outside of town. If you’re staying at one of these, check with your Airbnb host ahead of time. They will tell you what type of transportation you need or help you arrange a ride if necessary.

Bus or shuttle

To get to Mindo by bus, you need to go to Terminal La Ofelia at the north end of Quito.

There is only one bus company that goes to Mindo, which is called Flor de Valle . The trip takes about 2 hours and a one-way ticket costs $4. You can pay for it at the booth before you get on the bus. The bus departs from Quito several times a day. Once you get to Mindo, it’s a quick 5-10 minute walk to most of the hotels/hostels in town.

Like most public buses in Ecuador, the bus between Quito and Mindo is notorious for thefts. Always keep your backpack zipped up and on your lap and keep your phone and wallet zipped up where pickpockets can’t get them.

Note: if you take the bus, you won’t be able to stop at San Tadeo Birding. Instead, you can visit Nathaly Butterfly Garden , which is walking distance from Mindo. There aren’t as many hummingbirds as at San Tadeo, but you can still watch an impressive amount of hummingbirds whizz by while you relax in the hammocks.

Where to stay in Mindo

Given how small the town is, there is a surprising number of hostels and small hotels to choose from in Mindo. 

The majority of hotels and hostels are located within a 5-10 minute walk of the town center.  I personally recommend The Cinnamon House , which is tucked away down a quiet street, but still easily within walking distance to the center of town.

 If you prefer an Airbnb, you can rent one of the more remote cabins farther from town.

View all stays in Mindo here.

• Budget: Cinnamon House , La Casa de Cecilia 
• Moderate: El Descanso , Mindo Green House , CasKaffeSu Hotel
• Splurge: Hosteria Saguamby ,  Casa Divina Eco Lodge

If you prefer a more remote experience, book one of the unique Airbnbs in the mountains around the town.

This tranquil cabin is about 40 minutes from town, so it’s not ideal if you like to be near the action or have easy access to the town center. But it’s the perfect place to disconnect and completely unwind in the middle of Ecuador’s most beautiful landscape. We stayed for 2 nights and it was the highlight of our trip! 

Tranquil cabin in Mindo, Ecuador. Click here to book on Airbnb.

Mindo is – hands down – one of Ecuador’s most beautiful hidden gems (for now). Hidden among the clouds, Mindo is the perfect place for bird watching, adventure, and a bit of an adrenaline rush.

Similar to Monteverde in Costa Rica , Mindo is best known for it’s  rare cloud forest , which is among the most unique and biodiverse ecosystems in the world. Cloud forests form at high altitudes and are shrouded in a constant layer of mist and low-hanging clouds. These rare forests make up less than 1% of all forests on Earth, yet they support 2.5% of the entire world’s biodiversity!

The best way to experience the Mindo cloud forest is by taking the Tarabita cable car across the Rio Nambillo to the Ruta de las Cascada (Route of the Waterfalls) in the Nambillo Ecological Reserve. The car operates between 8:30am-4pm and costs $5/person for the return trip. Cash only.

Start your hike early to give yourself time to explore and to beat the bad weather that notoriously rolls in during the afternoon.

The Ruta de las Cascadas is an easy-moderate hike that passes by 7 waterfalls , some of which crash into crystal clear pools that are perfect for swimming. The trail is split in two, so you can pick one or both trails to complete. Step off the cable car and turn left to visit the 6 waterfalls along the Cascada Nambillo Route, or go right to reach Cascada Reina.

Either way, budget a few hours to complete your hike – or more if you want to swim (which you should!). And don’t forget to wear proper hiking boots !

After you explore the cloud forest, head to Hosteria Mariposas de Mindo , a butterfly sanctuary located just outside of town. Here, you can learn about the lifecycle of the butterflies and the sanctuaries conservation efforts, before entering the butterfly garden, which is home to an astonishing number of butterflies. The entrance fee is $8.50 per person (cash or credit card). 

It’s officially day 5 of your two weeks in Ecuador! If you haven’t had your fill of Mindo, this morning would be a great time to wake up extra early to catch one last birding tour before heading off to your next stop.

Your next destination is the  indigenous mountain town of Otavalo in the Imbabura Province of Northern Ecuador.  The town is surrounded by volcanoes and is mostly known for its vibrant market, where you can find locally made arts and crafts (more on that below). 

By the time you arrive in Otavalo, you’ll probably just want to check into your hotel and unwind. But if you have time to spare, Lago San Pablo is a great place to go for incredible views of the Imbabura Volcano.

You can find the best views from the dock just outside Puerto Lago Restaurant. Word has it that the food is pretty good, but even if you don’t eat there it might be worth going just for the view (as long as its not cloudy).

If you’re hungry, there are plenty of great places to eat in Otavalo. Maytushka has some really unique dishes inspired by Amazonas cuisine , or Restaurant La Palma is a great place for a cheap home-cooked Ecuadorian meal.

How to get from Mindo to Otavalo

Otavalo is located approximately 166km from Mindo and 110km north of Quito.

The journey from Mindo to Otavalo is fairly easy and takes about 3 hours by car. The scenery along the way is stunning, so make sure to take your time and enjoy the ride!

Take the bus from Mindo to Quito. The ride takes about 2 hours and costs $3.10. This bus arrives at La Ofelia Terminal in Quito. From there, take a taxi or an Uber to Terminal Carcelén, where you can take the Cooperativa Otavalo or the Cooperativa Los Lagos to Otavalo for $2.50. There are many buses departing for Otavalo throughout the day. 

Once you get to Otavalo, you can take a taxi pretty much anywhere within the city for $1-2.

Where to stay in Otavalo

There are budget-friendly airbnbs and hostels around Otavalo, but  the best way to experience Otavalo is to stay in one of the historic haciendas! These colonial farming estates have been converted into secluded boutique hotels with beautiful rooms, home-cooked meals, and tranquil surroundings.

While haciendas are not cheapest places too stay in Otavalo, they’re definitely worth splurging on if you can.

View all stays in Otavalo here.

• Budget:   Hostal Curiñan , The Traveler Hostel
• Moderate: La Palmeras Inn , Acoma Hotel
• Splurge:  Hotel Otavalo , Hacienda Pinsaqui , Hacienda Cusín

Otavalo is a charming, historically indigenous community surrounded by volcanoes. The town is mostly known for being the best place in Ecuador to buy fine wool textiles , but there are also waterfalls, volcanic lakes, and museums to explore.

The first thing you have to do in Otavalo is visit the famous Otavalo Artisan Market. It’s the largest outdoor market in South America and dates all the way back to pre-Inca times. 

The Otavalo Artisan Market is held in the central Plaza de Ponchos.  It’s held every day from 7am – 6pm, but you should visit on Saturday or Wednesday  for the largest selection of goods. Those are the biggest market days, when hundreds of craftsmen come out to sell their textiles, handicrafts, baked goods, and pottery.

When you’ve had your fill of shopping, choose from these best things to do in Otavalo:

• Wander the cobbled streets and admire the architecture around Simon Bolivar Park
• Take a short hike through a eucalyptus forest to visit the Peguche Waterfalls
• Visit Lake Cuicocha 
• Hike at Mojanda Lakes
• Go shopping in Cotocachi – Ecuador’s leather capital 
• Learn about the local Indigenous culture at the Otavalango Living Museum and Instituto Otavaleño de Antropología.

And don’t miss a visit to Parque Condor , which is a bird sanctuary that rescues birds of prey from abusive situations and illegal owners. You can see free flight demonstrations at 11:30am and 3:30pm every day Wednesday – Sunday (in Spanish).

Tips for shopping at the Otavalo Market

• The most important tip for shopping at the Otavalo Market  (and pretty much any market in Ecuador)  is to be prepared to haggle for everything. This is because the first price the vendors tell you is almost never the final price. The prices are usually inflated from anywhere between 15-50% because of something jokingly called “the gringo tax”. .
• Many vendors at the market sell identical goods, so shop around to find the best deals. .
• The Otavalo market is arranged by “seniority”, with the families who have been selling at the market for decades closer to the middle of the market. Head straight for those middle stalls, where you’ll find the most authentic and unique goods.  .
• Don’t believe everyone who tells you that sweaters and blankets are made from alpaca. It’s something they tell you to sell goods at a higher cost. The truth is, alpaca is not as common (or nearly as cheap) in Ecuador as it is in Peru. Most goods in Ecuador are made from a wool or synthetic blend. So if someone is trying to sell you an “alpaca” blanket for $25, you can safely assume that is not alpaca – at least not entirely.

READ NEXT:   19 Important Things to Know About Ecuador Before You Go

Where to find the best alpaca textiles near Otavalo

For genuine handmade alpaca goods, go to Aresania El Gran Condor in Peguche, which is only about 10 minutes outside of Otavalo. This small artisan craft shop is run by a family who has been hand making alpaca and wool goods for decades. The store is packed to the brim with all kinds of textiles.

They also offer free demonstrations on the traditional process of dying and weaving different types of wool (in Spanish). They even show you how to tell the difference alpaca, baby alpaca, wool, and synthetic wool – knowledge that really comes in handy when you’re shopping in the markets!

Today you’re trading the volcanoes of Otavalo for the volcanoes of Cotopaxi National Park.

On this drive, you’ll enter what is aptly named the Avenue of the Volcanoes. This route starts just south of Quito and runs down the spine of the Andes, all the way to the city of Cuenca.

On the way, you’ll see some giant volcanoes in the distance, including Ilinizas, Corazón, Rumiñahui, and Cotopaxi. If you get an early start before the clouds roll in – and the weather Gods are on your side – you can actually see Cotopaxi all the way from Quito.

This drive is also where you begin to enter the heart of Indigenous Ecuador , which is best known it’s rich traditional culture, colorful weekly markets, small artisan villages, and breathtaking views.

If you have time to spare, you can visit Cascada Condor-Machay, which is a waterfall in the nearby town of Rumipamba. The hike is just over 4 miles round trip, so you should allocate several hours to complete it. We personally didn’t have time to check it out, but if you have the time, it looks to be well worth a visit!

Directions to get there aren’t entirely clear, so I recommend reading this blog post before you go for updated directions.

Stop in Latacunga on your way to Cotopaxi to try some traditional chugchucaras at Restaurante La Mamma Negra.

How to get from Otavalo to Cotopaxi

Cotopaxi is 189 km south of Otavalo,  located between the towns of Machachi and Latacunga on the Panamerican Highway.

There are two main entrances to Cotopaxi National Park:

• The South Entrance ( El Chasqui ) near the town of Lasso
• The North Entrance ( El Pedregal ) near Machachi 

While a little farther from Quito, the south entrance is the most popular because it’s easy to access and the roads are in good shape.

The north entrance is less used because you have to drive through Machachi on rough, cobblestone roads. This is the entrance you need to use if you are staying anywhere near Machachi, including Hacienda El Porvenir, Chilcabamba, or Tambopaxi.

To drive to the South Entrance, follow the Pan American Highway past Machachi until you see the signs for the southern entrance to Cotopaxi National Park. You’ll see the sign just before you reach the village of Lasso. If you reach Lasso, you’ve gone too far.

To enter through the North Entrance, take the exit for Machachi and follow signs for El Pedregal and Cotopaxi National Park. The roads here are mostly cobblestone and sometimes dirt. It’s not a comfortable drive if you have a small car, so you definitely want  a 4×4 or at least a high clearance 4×2.

Unfortunately, there is no public bus service that goes directly into Cotopaxi National Park. 

• To get to the south entrance, take the bus to Latacunga from terminal Terrestre de Otavalo, which is Otavalo’s main bus terminal. Ask the bus driver to drop you off at the El Chasqui entrance of Cotopaxi National Park (the main entrance). . Buses leave 4 times a day every day and the earliest bus departs around 8AM. The journey takes about 3 hours and costs roughly $10-13. From there, you can catch a ride or try to get a taxi to take you to where you need to go inside the park. Make sure to tell them exactly where you want to go. Otherwise they’ll just drop you off at the park gate, which is several miles from any of the attractions. .
• To get to the north end of Cotopaxi National Park, take the bus from Otavalo to Quito’s main terminal. And then take the Carlos Brito bus into Machachi. Here, your best bet is to hire a taxi-truck in Machachi to give you a lift to your lodge. Expect to pay about $20-30 for the ride.

Overall, I don’t recommend using public transport to get around Cotopaxi National Park because everything is so spread out. It’s way easier to just go straight to your lodge and book a day tour from there. 

I included more details on getting to Cotopaxi and recommendations for the the best day tours in this Complete Guide to Cotopaxi National Park .

Where to stay near Cotopaxi

There are a lot of places to stay near Cotopaxi, no matter what your budget is. You can choose from luxurious haciendas, hostels, farmstays, and glamping either inside the National Park boundaries or in one of the surrounding towns, such as Lasso and Latacunga (near the south entrance) or Machachi (near the north entrance).

Lodging inside the national park is most expensive and gets cheaper as you move into the neighboring towns. The most popular lodges near the park are:

• Chilcabamba Lodge
• Hacienda Los Mortiños
• Hacienda El Porvenir

They all have unbeatable views of Cotopaxi volcano and – in my opinion – are well worth splurging on if it’s in your budget.

View all stays near Cotopaxi here.

• Budget: Mateospaxi , Randador Hostel , Hostel Rosita
• Moderate: Hosteria Papagayo , Hotel Cuello de Luna  
• Splurge: Chilcabamba Lodge , Hacienda El Porvenir , Hacienda Santa Ana

Because they’re so remote, most of the lodges in and around Cotopaxi offer some sort of meal service or on-site restaurant. They also offer pretty much the same tours for hiking, horseback riding, and biking in the national park. Book a tour by emailing them in advance or once you get there by just asking the front desk.

Day 9 of 2 weeks in Ecuador: Cotopaxi National Park

With a nearly symmetrical cone shape rising high over the páramo grasslands and a permanent cap of snow, Cotopaxi is THE most iconic peak in all of Ecuador.

Standing at 5897m, Cotopaxi is Ecuador’s second tallest peak, just after Chimborazo volcano. It’s also home to one of the few “tropical” glaciers on the planet, and happens to be one of the highest places on planet Earth, thanks to a bulge in Earth’s equator. 

The best time to see Cotopaxi is in the morning. So wake up early, cross your fingers for good weather, and make a beeline for Cotopaxi National Park. The park is open from 8AM – 3PM every day and entrance   to the park is free.

One of the main attractions in Cotopaxi National Park is the Jose Rivas Refugio.  It’s a hut that’s perched on the side of Cotopaxi volcano at an altitude of 4864m (15,958 ft). It’s used as a day hike destination and as a basecamp for climbers to acclimate to the altitude before they summit the volcano. 

While the hike to Jose Rivas Refugio is relatively short, it’s deceivingly difficult given the altitude and climb up loose volcanic rock. Inside, they sell warm drinks and modest snacks (cash only), so you can warm up for a few minutes before you hike back down.

Before you leave the park, stop to take in the views at  Limpiopungo Lagoon , which is a glacial lake that reflects the surrounding peaks. You can view it from the parking area or walk around the whole thing, which takes about an hour.

Do you need a guide to visit Cotopaxi National Park?

If you have a rental car, you do not need a guide to visit the main attractions in Cotopaxi National Park. There are basically 3 roads that lead to the major attractions. They’re in good shape and very easy to navigate. A 4×4 or high clearance 4×2 is necessary.

If you don’t have a car, then the best way to visit the park is by booking a day tour with a guide who can pick you up at your hotel and drive you around the park. You can book a tour ahead of time on your own, or ask your hotel to book one for you.

READ NEXT:  A Guide to Visiting Cotopaxi National Park in Ecuador

Day 10: Cotopaxi to Baños

It’s day 10 of your two weeks in Ecuador and today you’ll go to Baños, the adventure capital of Ecuador! On the way to Baños, take a detour off the tourist trail to visit Laguna Quilotoa  (Lake Quilotoa).

Laguna Quilotoa is an emerald green lake in a volcanic crater that formed when Quilotoa volcano exploded and collapsed. It’s located in the remote village of Quilotoa, high in the Andes Mountains.

The route to Quilotoa passes through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the country, including the indigenous villages and patchwork fields of Tigua and Zumbahua.

This is the best area of Ecuador to buy local artwork, so stop by Galería Arte Milenario Tigua to browse local art, baskets, pottery, and other handicrafts.

It takes about 3 hours to drive from Cotopaxi to Quilotoa and another 3 hours from Quilotoa to Baños.  At 6 hours total, it makes for a long day of driving, but Quilotoa is definitely something you shouldn’t miss if you have the time. Just make sure to leave Cotopaxi at sunrise so that you have enough time to fit everything in.

The entrance fee to Quilotoa is $2 per person. From the parking lot, follow signs to the crater. From there, check out the panoramic views of Quilotoa Lake from the crater lookout (mirador), hike a portion of the 7.5 mile Quilotoa rim trail, or hike down to the bottom of the crater.

Down at the lakeshore, there’s a small dock where you can rent kayaks and spend some time out on the lake. The way down is steep and sandy, but not overly difficult. However, keep in mind that you have to go all the way back up, which is way harder due to the high altitude. Please practice responsible animal tourism and do not hire a mule to take you back up.

Tip: you will need a wide-angle lens to fit Lake Quilotoa into one shot

When you’ve had your fill at Lake Quilotoa, embark on your 3 hour journey to Baños, where you can unwind and prepare for the next few days of adventure.

How to get from Cotopaxi to Baños

Without stops, driving yourself from Cotopaxi to Baños takes approximately 2.5 – 3  hours via the Panamerican highway.

Stopping at Lake Quilotoa will add about 3 hours to your drive, bringing your total drive time to about 6 hours.

To get to Lake Quilotoa, follow the Panamerican highway south from Cotopaxi and then follow Route E30 west from Latacunga. While the route to Lake Quilotoa climbs through the mountains, the entire thing is paved and well maintained, so no need for a 4×4. Just watch out for all of the dogs that like to lie in the road!

There is no direct bus from Cotopaxi to Baños. You will have to take a bus from Latacunga to Ambato and then transfer from Ambato to Baños. The entire journey takes about 2 hours.

Without a car, you won’t be able to visit Quilotoa Lake and get to Baños on the same day. This is because the earliest bus from Latacunga Terminal to Quilotoa Lake leaves in the afternoon, so you won’t have enough time to do everything.

To visit Quilotoa Lake, I recommend spending the night in Lake Quilotoa and going to Baños the next day. Or head straight to Baños and book a day tour to Lake Quilotoa from there.

Once you’re in Banos, you can easily take local buses in and out of the city or call a taxi to get around.

Where to stay in Baños

Baños is a big tourist part of Ecuador, so there are a ton of places to stay. There’s a place for every budget, from modest hostels and quaint Airbnbs to luxury hotels perched on cliff high above town. And the best part is that you’ll have phenomenal views of the surrounding valley, no matter where you stay.

View all stays in Baños here.

• Budget: Hostal Balcon del Cielo , Hosteria Llanovientos
• Moderate: Hotel De Mi Pueblo , Isla de Baños Hotel , La Floresta Hotel
• Splurge: Finca Chamanapamba Guest House

Welcome to Baños!  If you crave  adrenaline filled adventure , this is where you’ll find it!

Also known as Baños de Agua Santa , this town is located directly between the Andes Mountains and the Amazon Basin. It’s known as the ‘adventure capital of Ecuador’ because of its huge range of adventure sports, including paragliding, rafting, zip lining, canyoning, and mountain biking.

You won’t have any trouble finding a place to book any of the above adventures. Simply visit the numerous tour operators in the town center or book through the hostels and hotels around town.

One thing you must do is cycle the Ruta de las Cascadas, also known as The Waterfall Highway . Just hire a bike for the day and follow the road from Baños to the town of Puyo along the Río Pastaza canyon. Along the way, you’ll pass seven waterfalls before finally arriving at the best of them all:  Pailón del Diablo, or the Devil’s Cauldron.

Another great thing to do in Baños is to take a swing at the end of the world at Casa del Arbol (entry is $1 per person). For the best views, go in the morning or on a clear afternoon before the clouds roll into the valley.

After a full day of adventure, relax in the volcanically heated hot springs.

I personally recommend splurging on a day pass at Luna Volcán , an adventure spa perched on the side of the mountain overlooking the town. A pass to the pool and jacuzzis are $20 per person – and well worth the cost.

For a cheaper alternative, check out the two public hot springs Termas de la Virgen and El Salado. Termas de la Virgen is close to the town center, while El Salado is about a 10 minute drive but a lot less crowded. Entrance is only $3.

Day 14: Baños to Quito

Your adventurous 2-weeks in Ecuador is coming to an end, as you pack up to catch your flight home. Hopefully you’ll be ending your trip with plenty of amazing memories and epic photos to tide you over until your next visit to South America!

Extend your trip to Ecuador

Not ready to leave Ecuador yet? Honestly, I’d be surprised if you were!

If you have more time to spare, here’s how you can extend your trip through Ecuador:

• Cuenca, Ecuador . Time needed: 3 days 
• The Galapagos Islands . Time needed: 5-10 days
• The Amazon Jungle . Time needed: 4-6 days

City and Culture: Cuenca, Ecuador

The city of Cuenca, Ecuador is the third largest city in Ecuador.

What you can expect from your visit to Cuenca: 

• Lively urban vibes
• Colorful colonial architecture
• Stunning centuries old cathedrals
• Friendly locals and bustling markets 

The city overlooks the Rio Tomebamba River, which provides incredible photo ops (and cooling relief on sunny days).

When you’ve had your fill of the city, there are also plenty of outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking or taking day trips to nearby villages that offer even more traditional cultural experiences. You can even explore the Inca ruins scattered around the area for a unique experience that you won’t find anywhere else.

The people here are incredibly welcoming and the city itself is filled with friendly locals, warm vibes, and plenty of cultural activities like painting and dancing. Cuenca is also the best place in Ecuador to learn Spanish! 

How to get to Cuenca

Cuenca is located approximately 467km south of Quito. From Quito, the drive takes just over 7.5 hours via Route E35. However, if you add Cuenca to this road trip itinerary, then you’ll want to head straight there from Baños, which takes about 6 hours.

The route between Quito and Cuenca is filled with magnificent volcanoes, valleys, and picturesque indigenous villages.

By plane from Quito

A direct flight from Mariscal Sucre Quito International Airport  (UIO) in  Quito to Aeropuerto Mariscal La Mar  (CUE) in  Cuenca takes less than an hour. Flights on LATAM or Avianca are extremely affordable and you can book them just a few days in advance.

Taking the bus to Cuenca takes the most amount of time. 

Take the bus from Quito’s Terminal Terrestre Quitumbe to the station in Cuenca. The journey costs about $28 and takes about 9-10 hours.

SCUBA Diving and Wildlife: The Galapagos Islands

The Galapagos Islands hold an incredible place in history as the inspiration for Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution. This remote group of 13 islands is located about 600 miles off the Pacific coast of Ecuador.

The Galapagos are a natural wonder, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a huge draw for wildlife enthusiasts. In fact, it’s estimated that 90% of the land-dwelling species found here are not found anywhere else on the planet.  

What you can expect in the Galapagos Islands: 

• Observing wildlife in it’s natural habitat 
• Snorkeling on pristine turquoise shores
• Scuba diving around abundant coral reefs
• The only place in the world where you can watch penguins swim over coral reefs! 

You can even observe fascinating wildlife on land , including endemic species like giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, and the iconic marine iguana. It’s no wonder why the Galapagos have captivated people for centuries and why they remain one of the most popular tourist spots on earth.

How to get to the Galapagos Islands

Getting to the Galapagos from Quito is super easy!

Most people will fly into Quito’s Mariscal Sucre International Airport. From there, you will take a domestic flight to the Galapagos. But first, the flight will stop in Guayaquil to pick up more passengers before heading to the islands.

The flight from Quito to Guayaquil takes about 30 minutes, and the flight from Guayaquil to the Galapagos takes about 2.5 hours.

Once you arrive in the Galapagos, you’ll have to book a cruise or a variety of boat tours to explore the diversity of wildlife and nature found on each of the islands. 

The Amazon Jungle: Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve and Yasuni National Park

With its world-renowned biodiversity , a trip to the Ecuadorian Amazon (Amazonia) should be at the top of every adventure traveler’s list.

Exploring the Amazon rainforest is an experience like no other. Visiting the Ecuadorian Amazon gives you an opportunity to witness nature at its best and catch a glimpse of the extraordinary wildlife that calls this special part of the world home.

You’ll have a chance to observe troops of squirrel monkeys leaping through the trees, admire colorful macaws perched on branches, and swim alongside pink river dolphins .

The two most common ways to experience the Amazon in Ecuador are by visiting Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve or Yasuni National Park. Both Cuyabeno and Yasuni both offer incredible opportunities to experience the Amazon Rainforest.

Accommodations range from luxurious eco-lodges to rustic cabins and can be booked online or with the help of your hotel in Quito. 

While Yasuni caters to more of a luxury travel crowd, Cuyabeno attracts more backpackers because you can easily visit for a fraction of the cost of Yasuni.

We had a really hard time deciding between Cuyabeno and Yasuni, but ultimately chose Cuyabeno for it’s price and the fact that the river is a lot narrower, allowing us to potentially see more wildlife along the shore.

We stayed at Guacamayo Eco-lodge in Cuyabeno and were so incredibly thrilled with our experience. The lodge itself is very rustic and modest, but it was all part of the adventure.

I think what really made it though was our guide, Neiser Toro. He’s an experienced naturalist guide and founder of the Amazon conservation group Amazon Shepherd .

I would 100% recommend that you contact Guacamayo ahead of time and try to line up dates that Neiser is guiding. His passion and knowledge of the Amazon rainforest is truly unmatched. 

How to get to Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve

The tours to Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve start in the city of Lago Agro (Nueva Loja) in the Amazon region of Ecuador. Lago Agrio is 387km east of Quito, near the border of Colombia. 

You basically have to find your way to Lago Agrio, where you will meet up with the tour guide from your lodge. For this reason, all tours to Cuyabeno need to be pre-booked. 

Most people take the overnight bus from Quito to Lago Agrio, which costs about $40 per person round-trip. Your lodge will tell you where to meet the bus in Quito. The  journey from Quito to Lago Agrio takes about 10 hours. At first, we were really anxious about the long ride, but we just ended up sleeping most of the time.

We booked our tour of the Amazon with Guacamayo Ecolodge. Our bus picked us up at 11PM at the Secret Garden Hostel in Quito’s Historic District. We arrived at another hotel in Lago Agrio at approximately 9AM the next morning, where we had breakfast and met with the rest of our group. From there, we boarded a local bus which drove us 2 hours to our meeting point on the shore of the Cuyabeno River. There, we took another 2 hour boat ride in a motorized canoe down the Cuyabeno River to our lodge.

The entire trip from Quito to arriving at our lodge took roughly 16 hours. It sounds like a long time, but truly it was all part of the adventure! 

It used to be a lot easier to access Lago Agrio by plane from Quito. However, TAME airlines, which was the only airline that flew between Quito and Lago Agrio, no longer operates those flights. 

Instead, you will have to fly from Quito toFrancisco de Orellana Airport  (OCC) in  Coca and arrange for transportation to the hotel where the local bus picks you up on the way to the Cuyabeno River. You can try arranging this with your lodge ahead of time. Make sure you can speak some Spanish! 

How to get to Yasuni National Park

Getting to Yasuni National Park is a little more straightforward than getting to Cuyabeno. While Yasuni is more expensive, the ease of accessing Yasuni might be something to consider if you’re short on time.

You can fly from IUO in Quito to Francisco de Orellana Airport  (OCC) in  Coca, which is the meeting point for tours to Yasuni. A nonstop flight takes approximately 30 minutes.

Your guide will meet you in Coca and transport you to a meeting point before you take the boat down the Napo River to your lodge. Tours to Yasuni need to be pre-booked. 

Ecuador Entry Requirements for COVID-19

As of October 2022, Ecuador no longer requires proof of COVID-19 vaccination cards or proof of a negative COVID-19 test prior to entering Ecuador. However, international travelers are still required to complete a declaration of health prior to entering Ecuador, which is available through the ministry of Public Health. You can find the link here .

To visit the Galapagos Islands, you also need to present a “transit control card”, issued by the Government of Galapagos. 

This information is up-to-date as of December 2022. For more details and the most recent updates , please review COVID-19 Information issued by the US Embassy and Ecuador’s Emergency Operations Committee . 

Do You Get Altitude Sickness in Ecuador?

Since Ecuador is home to some of the highest mountains in the world, you might experience symptoms of altitude sickness in certain parts of the country. This is because the air is thinner at high altitude, which makes your body work harder to get oxygen. 

Symptoms of altitude sickness generally start around 8,200 ft (2,500m) above sea level and feel a bit like a hangover.

Common symptoms of altitude sickness

• Shortness of breath

However most people only experience mild symptoms and adapt within a few days.

To alleviate symptoms of altitude

• Drink plenty of water
• Get plenty of rest
• Avoid alcohol to start
• Take ibuprofen 

While altitude sickness typically takes a few hours to set in, you might notice some immediate effects as soon as you arrive in Quito. 

At its highest point, Quito is over 9,000 feet above sea level, making it one of the highest elevation cities in the world. As soon as you step off the plane, you might notice that just walking makes you feel a little bit out of breath. This is especially true if you’re coming from somewhere around sea level.

This two week Ecuador itinerary starts off with a few days in Quito to allow your body to acclimate to the altitude before continuing on to other parts of Ecuador.

However, even after adjusting to the altitude in Quito, you might still feel some effects in higher elevation areas like Cotopaxi or Quilotoa, which sit between 13,000 – 15,000 feet above sea level. Remember to stay hydrated and don’t be surprised if you’re out of breath or more tired than usual simply from walking around.

Getting to Ecuador

There are two major airports in Ecuador :

• Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) in Quito
• José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport (GYE) in Guayaquil

Quito is usually the best airport to fly into because it’s the most convenient starting point for a country-wide road trip and the jumping off point for flights to the Amazon. Quito is also the best city for tourism because it’s a lot prettier and a lot safer than Guayaquil.

Flying into Guayaquil makes the most sense if your only destination is the mainland beaches or if you have a single night layover before you travel to the Galapagos Islands. 

However, it’s generally best to arrive in Ecuador a few days before you fly out to the Galapagos. This is to account for any weather issues and to allow extra time if your international flight loses your luggage. For this reason, it would be best to fly into Quito and spend a few days before leaving for the Galapagos. 

When it comes to finding the best flight deals, timing is everything. For the cheapest flights, try to book your tickets at least three months in advance and avoid peak season and major holidays.  

For the most part, flights are most expensive from June – August, which correlates to summer vacation in the United States and Europe.

The best way to travel in Ecuador: How to get around for a 2 Week Itinerary

You won’t find a better way to explore this unique country than by hitting the road and seeing it firsthand.

The best place to rent a car in Quito is from Amigo Car Rental . They were professional, honest, and had great prices with unlimited kilometers.

Here’s how you can contact Amigo Car Rental: 

• Whatsapp: +593 98 548 2751
• Facebook: click here
• Email: [email protected]

We arranged our car rental through WhatsApp and made the downpayment (which was one day of rental) through western union. When we arrived at the office, it was super small but the service was very professional. We paid the remaining balance in cash, filled out the paperwork, and were given a quick overview of the car. The whole process took about 20 minutes.

Don’t rent a car from the airport because they’re notorious for not having the car for you once you show up, even if you reserve way ahead of time. We talked to a few travelers during our trip who had horror stories about renting from the airport.

In fact, I would suggest sticking with local companies only and avoiding large international companies altogether. 

Most cars in Ecuador are manual transmission, so expect to pay almost double if you want an automatic.    

Gas stations are full service. Go to Petroecuador for the best prices. Just pull up and tell them you want a full tank of gas. Gas is extra or super, so make sure you find out which one your rental car takes. They will expect you to pay cash, or “ effectivo ” in Spanish. However, they will accept credit cards. 

Public Transportation

If you don’t want to rent a car, public buses, taxis, and private/shared shuttle services are very accessible in Ecuador. Obviously using public transport is not as convenient as a having your own car. But a combination of public transportation, shuttles, and some creativity, can definitely get you almost anywhere you need to go.

Day trips from Quito

Quito is centrally located to most of the spots on this 2 week itinerary. You can also easily Ecuador’s top attractions from Quito, including the Amazon Rainforest, the Galapagos Islands, and Avenue of the Volcanoes. In fact, if you don’t have a car and don’t want to take a bus, then you can find a day tour that leaves from Quito and takes you to all corners of the country.

All of these destinations are easily accessed via day trips and overnight trips from Quito. Just about any hotel can help you arrange that. So, if you wanted to avoid the public bus system altogether, it is possible to use Quito as your home base.

Doing it this way is easy if you don’t have a car. Just note that you’ll lose a lot of time going back and forth to Quito. It’s also more expensive and much less flexible than doing things on your own schedule.

Private Driver

Hiring a private driver is super common in Ecuador, and it can even be cheaper than renting a car in some cases. You can hire a driver for as many days as you need.

Here are some reasons why you might want to consider hiring a driver:

• If you’re intimidated by driving in Ecuador but still want the flexibility .
• So you can fully enjoy the scenery while you’re chauffeured from one incredible destination to the next. 
• To have a local expert who can show you the country’s hidden gems that you might have otherwise missed. 

If you’re interested in a hiring a driver, Guanguiltagua Expeditions comes highly recommended. If we go back to Ecuador and hire a driver, this is the company we will use.

We hired a driver for one day through   Ecuador Best Tours to take us shopping around Otavalo after we returned our rental car. Our driver, Eduardo, was so accommodating and we had the best time! The only downside was that Ecuador Best Tours charged us $200 for the day, which is a little pricier than other companies.

We didn’t mind paying extra because our request was very last minute. Normally though, you can expect to pay about $100-150 per day for a private driver. This doesn’t include their accommodation costs, which are extra should they need to travel around the country with you.

What month is best to visit Ecuador?

Ecuador is full of incredibly diverse landscapes, so the weather mostly varies by region and depends on geography and altitude. According to the locals, any time of year is a good time to visit Ecuador, as long as you craft your itinerary around the weather. 

• June – October is the best time to visit the Andean Highlands (Quito, Cotopaxi, Quilotoa, Cuena, Otavalo) and the Amazon Basin (Banos, Coca, Puyo, Yasuni, Cuyabeno).  . These are the coolest and driest months. During this time, you can expect dry, sunny weather and a better chance of clear skies for panoramic views of Ecuador’s mountains and volcanoes. This is also the best time to visit Peru if you plan to extend your trip. . The downside is that June, July and August are some fo the busiest months of the year due to summer vacation in North America and Europe. .
• December – May is the best time to visit Ecuador’s coastal regions and the Galapagos Islands.  While this is considered the rainy season in Ecuador, the waters around the Galapagos are the warmest and crowds are a lot lower. The water is also calmer, which allows for better visibility for snorkeling and scuba diving. . Crowds are highest during the holiday season in December and January, so you’ll want to book far in advance if you plan to travel during this time because lodging, rental cars, and tours will sell out fast. .
• The rainiest months are March and April throughout the whole country , so try to avoid those. .
• For the best combination of weather and crowds, visit in February, September or October.   

How much does a 2 week trip cost?

How much money will you need for your trip to Ecuador ? Prices vary greatly depending on the time of year, the location, and how you get around. But you can easily take a two-week trip to Ecuador for less than $700 per person  if you’re careful with your budget. This averages out to about $50 per day . 

Compared to the United States or Canada, a self-guided two week trip to Ecuador can be extremely affordable, even if you decide to splurge here and there on fancier meals and accommodation.

The most expensive part of the trip will likely be the rental car.  For this itinerary, having a rental with high clearance is more important than a having a 4×4, which will save you a lot of money. Still expect to pay roughly $70 per day for a manual 4×2 SUV. If you need an automatic car, the price is closer to $100 per day. Alternatively, you can take public transportation, which is significantly cheaper but may not be as convenient as having your own car.

Accommodation is very affordable in Ecuador, with the exception of the Galapagos Islands. A shared room in a hostel can cost as little as $10 per night, which is perfect if you’re on a shoe string budget. But you can often spend just a little bit more and find a private room in a nice hostel for about $20-30 per night. Even if you decide to splurge a little bit, the fanciest hotels or hacienda’s rarely cost more than $300/night. 

While food prices vary a lot in Ecuador, expect to pay about $15-20 a day for food . A fish or steak meal at an upscale restaurant costs about $20 per person. But the majority of meals will cost roughly $6 per person for a full plate of food. Breakfast is typically cheaper than lunch and dinner. The cheapest meal we had was at a Greek restaurant in Mindo, where we paid $3 per person for a full breakfast and coffee.

How much we spent in 2 weeks in Ecuador

• Flights from JFK to Quito: $0 (credit card points)
• Travel insurance: $180
• Airport parking: $192
• Checked bags: $60
• Car rental: $630  
• Lodging: $636.58
• Uber and shuttles: $50 
• Textiles and handicrafts: $900
• Entrance fees: $106  
• Parking: $13  
• Tours (including guide tips): $248

GRAND TOTAL: $3289.58

These prices are for two people and we split everything in half, which came to $1744.79 per person for the whole trip, or $872/person/week. 

We did treat ourselves to some splurge stays, some fancy meals, and a bunch of handicrafts. We obviously weren’t being very careful with our budget and could have saved almost $1000 had we not gone crazy for textiles and handicrafts. No regrets tho. 

But overall, Ecuador is definitely an ultra budget friendly destination.  Just don’t spend a thousand dollars on textiles and you’ll be fine.

Is Ecuador safe?

In general, Ecuador is safe to visit .

The crime rate outside of big cities is relatively low, and the vast majority of travelers enjoy their time without any issues.

Guayaquil has the highest crime rate in Ecuador, so it’s best to stick to the tourist areas when visiting or avoid Guayaquil altogether. The same goes for these areas in Quito.

Violent crime is relatively rare, but petty theft and muggings are common. Because of this, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings, avoid traveling at night, and keep your valuables hidden. Be cautious of anyone who becomes overly friendly. While the people in Ecuador are lovely, anyone who seems too eager to help or distract you is probably trying to scam you. Unless it’s an emergency, kindly refuse any assistance from locals and keep your possessions (especially your cell phone!) hidden away in an internal pocket of your jacket or backpack.

Robberies/pick pockets are pretty common on public buses, so it’s better to use registered taxis, tourist shuttles, or ride-sharing services whenever you can. In addition, protests and demonstrations can sometimes turn violent, so always avoid protester areas and be aware of your surroundings at all times.

Don’t let all of this scare you though! Overall, Ecuador is a relatively safe country full of vibrant culture and friendly, welcoming people. If you just use common sense and take basic safety precautions, you should have an enjoyable and safe trip to Ecuador.

What language is spoken in Ecuador?

Spanish is the official language of Ecuador.   Some people in rural communities also speak indigenous languages, such as Quichua and Shuar.

English is spoken mostly by people who interact with tourists, such as tour operators, hotel staff, and most rental car companies. It basically ends there though.

In short, English is not widely spoken in Ecuador, so you will need to know a bit of Spanish to get around. If you don’t already know some Spanish, you can quickly learn some basic volcab and useful sentences with apps like Mondly .

I also recommend downloading iTranslate for translating on the go. You have to pay for the offline version, but I think it’s worth it. We found that it was super reliable and a lot more accurate than Google Translate.

Can you drink the water in Ecuador?

No, you cannot drink the tap water in Ecuador. This is due to a variety of factors, including poor water treatment and contamination from agricultural runoff. As a result, it is important to only drink bottled water while in Ecuador, unless you’re specifically told otherwise (i.e. if your hotel has a RO system). 

Currency in Ecuador

The official currency of Ecuador is the US dollar . The US dollar is the only currency is that is accepted in Ecuador.

Additionally, Ecuador is very cash based. You can pay with major credit cards at most tourist businesses, some gas stations, larger hotels, and larger restaurants. However, expect to pay cash for basically everything else – including anything at the markets, entrance fees, tours not booked online, and even rental cars (weird, I know!).

Don’t bother carrying too many bills larger than $20. Most places won’t accept anything larger than a $20 bill , with the exception of rental car companies, grocery stores and gas stations.

Did you find this 2 Week Ecuador Itinerary and Travel Guide helpful? Let me know in the comments!

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Ultimate ECUADOR Travel Guide

Ecuador is a country located in South America .  Quito is the capital and it is a country known for its natural wonders, culture, and architecture. Our Ecuador travel guide is here to help you see the best it offers.

The country is typically split into two main sectors, the mainland and the Galapagos Islands. However, you’ll learn quickly that the mainland is comprised of distinct regions that vary wildly from each other.

On the mainland you’ll find the colonial cities spread across the country. The regions comprise of the highlands, Amazonia and the coast.

In the Galapagos Islands, there are two main islands where you can fly in and out of. Most people join cruises around the islands, which is the best way to see them, but it is also possible to stay on the two islands with airports too.

Destinations

Ecuador travel: quick tips, don’t visit ecuador without:.

UNIVERSAL TRAVEL ADAPTER

GET A GUIDEBOOK

REUSABLE WATER BOTTLE

PLANNING TO VIST MORE OF SOUTH AMERICA?

Where to stay in ecuador.

Below you will find some of the places we have stayed during our travels in Ecuador. These are individual properties that we enjoyed and would recommend to other travelers.

HOW TO GET AROUND IN ECUADOR

Anyone looking to travel to Ecuador will likely fly into Quito and connect to the other airports across the country. From these major cities, it is possible to use public transportation to see the city or take buses further afield.

Many people choose to engage in group tours or day tours to get around and see things in Ecuador. It is also possible to rent a car and plan a road trip that takes you further afield and out of the city. If you’re visiting the Galapagos, one of the most popular ways to explore is by booking a cruise.

TOP ECUADOR TOURS

Highlands of ecuador.

8 Days from Quito Visits: Otavalo, Cotopaxi, Alausi & Cuenca

AMAZON, HOT SPRINGS & VOLCANOES

9 Days from Quito Visits: Otavalo, Papallacta, Tena, Banos & Cotopaxi

ECUADOR MAINLAND & GALAPAGOS

14 Days from Quito Visits: Papallacta, Tena, Banos & Galapagos Islands

PLAN YOUR TRIP LIKE A SEASONED PRO!

Ecuador travel: booking resources, ecuador travel guide: related articles.

Looking for more info? Check out all the articles we’ve written on travel to Ecuador and start planning your dream trip.

How to Plan a Galapagos Cruise Like a Pro

How to visit the amazon in ecuador, napo wildlife center review: yasuni national park in ecuador, unique galapagos islands animals you must see, galapagos luxury cruise on the sea star journey.

Deals of the Week   All of Europe's finest   Up to 50% OFF

Fully Guided Tours & Trips in Ecuador

Find the right fully guided tour for you in Ecuador. There are 400 trips to choose from, that range from one day in length, up to 23 days. The month with the most departures is July, making it the most popular time to visit Ecuador.

250+ Fully Guided tour packages in Ecuador with 841 reviews

• In-depth Cultural
• Christmas & New Year

Galápagos Adventure: Snorkelling & Sea Lions

Very good Guide José

• Ocean Cruise

Galápagos Multisport

The Galapagos is a beautiful place with so many things to do and see. Our guide Gustavo made sure that all of our needs were attended to. He kept everything fun and was one step ahead during the whole tour.

Best of Galapagos

Just the best tour I ever undertook

Galapagos Discovery

Our tour guide Isabella B made the trip awesome. Her knowledge, personality, patience, organization, fun demeanor was outstanding.

• Hiking & Trekking

Affordable Galapagos 8 Days Tour

The islands are great. The hotels are ok, except the one in Santa Cruz witch is great, Hotel Isla. The trekking for the volcano in Isabela is very tiring, and there is no time to change before taking the speedboat back to Santa Cruz. Tourradar could give the guests the possibility to fly back, even with an extra cost. The snorkel were great, really incredible, specially the one in Leon Dormido, Kicker Rock. In all I strongly recommend this tour. Gustavo

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Ecuador Highlights

An amazing country but lots of time driving required to see so much of it in only 8 days (can't include day 1 or 10). Our experience was unique in that my husband and I were "the" tour group! We benefitted from a very personalized Adventure Journeys tour with guide Alfonso Freire, about whom we can't say enough nice things: extremely knowledgeable and interesting as well as fun to spend time with! I am vegan and want to complement the young chef at Liana Lodge (Tena/Amazonia) who prepared delicious meals for me; other places didn't/couldn't provide enough vegan alternatives but I've traveled enough to know I have to be flexible sometimes (intention vs perfection). Accommodations ranged from 5-star to 3-star, all however were clean & comfortable (I did request a room with electricity in Amazonia & brought a tiny fan for relief from the heat & humidity... thank goodness I did!). The people of Ecuador are gracious, the scenery is beautiful and the food is delicious! It is a shame that tourism is being severely impacted by current (political/gang) events however we felt safe wherever we went, with or without Alfonso: problems do exist but not in areas where most tourists go and people should feel encouraged to travel here!

6 Day Ecuador Multisport

The best way to explore the country. We booked the 6 day tour with other 2 friends, and I highly recommend the team. Thank you so much!!

Ecuador Multisport Once in a Life Time

this was a trip of a lifetime. I really would recommend it to all active travelers.

10 Days Galapagos Island Hopping in Santa Cruz and Isabela

Hi! We love TourRadar. We had the best experience in the Galapagos islands. The communication with Jefferson was excellent from day one. He returned messages quickly along with several answers to questions that we had as this was our first time using a tour agency. Everything went smooth, and as printed in the itinerary. we are looking at our next-door and looking at TourRadar as I write. The hotels in the Galapagos were in town and walking distance to the beach, restaurants, activities, and super centrally located. However, the hotel in Ecuador was up on a hill and in a locked area. The place was nice. The grounds are beautiful, however, food and ability to sightsee or just take a walk or Prohibited. When I’ve loved to seen Ecuador and do plan to go back and spend some time in the city and see the marketplace and be able to walk around. All folks throughout the Galapagos islands were extremely friendly, helpful and kind. The treatment of humans and wildlife is superb and we all could learn from them. Thank you for this tour A+.

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

Ecuador: Amazon, Hot Springs & Volcanoes National Geographic Journeys

This is a relaxed yet full itinery, a great introduction to Equador , accomadation , guides, varied landscapes, with insights culture , surperb trip by Gadventured.

7 Days Galapagos Expedition: San Cristobal & Santa Cruz Island

Tailor-Made Private Ecuador Vacation with Daily Departure

We had a wonderful trip! Ivan was an excellent guide! He shared his wealth of knowledge about everywhere we visited. He was professional, kind and patient with us. We would highly recommend this tour and Ivan!

Ultimate Galapagos 6 Days Tour

This tour was a great tour to save the logistics hustles. It is great for people who have little time before the trip to plan because it certainly covers all the highlights in the Galapagos. I didn’t expect it is not a group tour but I guess that’s part of my fault. Nevertheless i enjoyed the Galapagos and looking forward to going back.

6-Day Galapagos Land Tour & Cabo Rosa - Los Tuneles Program

Overall, it was a good tour, and kept us quite busy. I would have preferred to have an extra day in Santa Cruz and one less day and Isabella. We had a very nice room for our two night stay in Santa Cruz, but the room in which we spent four nights in the Isabella was far from adequate. It had no amenities, and the host lady, or manager, was quite unfriendly and uninviting, making it difficult to ask her for anything. The room was not kept clean on a daily basis, and the room and bathroom were extremely small. Bathroom was so small I could barely turn around in it.

7 Day Galapagos Island Hopping Budget

The Galapagos are incredible and overall the Rebecca Budget Tour was satisfactory. The hotels were clean and most of the provided meals were good. However, some of the day trips were changed at the last minute with little notice. We also received little information in advance about various fees, including a $100 park fee for the Galapagos that had to be paid in cash. Some guides were excellent with a lot of knowledge about the Galapagos. We also appreciated getting underwater video of snorkeling trips from some guides. Overall, I would recommend this tour but better information should be provided.

What people love about Fully Guided Tours in Ecuador

This was a great tour, the galápagos is amazing! G-adventure has a well organized tour. There are some early morning days but they don't matter because you are in the Galápagos! The rooms are basic but have air conditioning which is good since it is very hot there. José was a fantastic guide and had so much knowledge about the islands. Definitely choose the add-on snorkeling trips they are worth it. I think the Galápagos needs to be on everyone's list.

This tour is intended for people who are physically fit,able to walk 6 kilometers a day, love to kayak/snorkel/swim/bike, and still have plenty of energy to enjoy the wildlife. I cannot cope up with the group, but luckily our CEO offered me options like museum visit, tour to Tntoreras. I still was able yo see all the wildlife I need to see exvept the cormorant. I did not expect to stay in a 5 star hotel. I find the accommodation suitable enough for my needs: comfortable bed, air condition, water, electricity, wifi. Special thanks to Sandra, CEO. She is one of the best tour guides I met in my years of travel. She is a great listener and teacher. She was born in Santa Cruz. She knows Galapagos like the palm of her hand.

Amazing experience, and our guide was so knowledgeable and resourceful.

Regions in Ecuador

• Galapagos Islands (239)
• Ecuador Andean Highlands (80)
• Avenue of the Volcanoes (68)
• Amazonian Region Ecuador (27)
• Cotopaxi National Park (18)
• Chile Coastal Lowlands (10)
• Yasuni National Park (9)

Travel Styles

• Fully Guided
• Ecuador Travel Guide | All You Need to Know

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• See All Tour Operators in Ecuador
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Ecuador Travel Guide: Our Route, Budget, Things To Do, Accommodation and Valuable Tips

My wife and I rented a car and explored the Ecuador Mainland and I’ve gotta say, it’s a hidden gem for travel lovers. I made an effort, and I decided to do this Ecuador travel guide based on our experience.

Our travel to Ecuador was truly amazing. You’ll find historical cities, active and inactive volcanoes, crater lakes, hiking at altitudes of 5000m, hot springs, waterfalls, Amazon jungles , mind-blowing national parks , and, of course, the unique Galapagos islands … but I’ll get into that in a separate article .

Cotopaxi Volcano

Not only is there absolutely loads to see but it’s also totally budget-friendly.

The goal of this travel guide is to give you an idea of what a road trip to Ecuador’s mainland actually looks like and to help you decide whether you want to travel to Ecuador yourself.

To help with that, we’ll talk about:

• Our route and the places we visited in Ecuador
• How much we spent and – most importantly – how you could potentially save money. Spoiler alert: we spent $3400 excluding flight tickets, travel insurance, and PCR test expenses.
• Our accommodation
• And my personal favorite: the Ecuadorian food we tried

I’ll start my travel guide with general information about traveling in Ecuador, but if you want to see our route only, feel free to skip to this part right away.

Table of Contents

Essential Information for a Well-Planned Trip to Ecuador

Ecuador travel restrictions.

As of July 20, 2023, Ecuador has abolished its COVID-19 entry requirements. International travelers are now exempt from presenting COVID-19 vaccination cards or providing proof of a negative COVID-19 test before entering the country.

This information may change, so always do your research before traveling. You may visit Ecuador’s Ministry of Health website to check.

Best Time To Visit Ecuador

The country experiences two main seasons: the rainy season and the dry season, which vary depending on altitude and distance from the equator. Even during the rainy season, Ecuador is a wonderful vacation destination as most days are sunny until the afternoon. Many locals say that the best time to visit Ecuador is July, August and September. We visited Ecuador in September and the weather was almost perfect.

The ideal time to visit Ecuador varies based on the specific region you plan to explore and the activities you wish to engage in. The country is divided into three distinct regions: the Amazon, Andean, and Galapagos Islands.

In the Andes region, February, March, and April are typically the wettest months, while June, July, and August tend to be drier. The southern coast and the Galápagos experience the sunniest and warmest weather from December through May.

On the coastal lowlands, a tropical climate prevails with average temperatures ranging from 26°C to 23°C. Cities like Manta and Puerto Lopez are popular among travelers. Although there are no significant seasonal temperature fluctuations, February through April tends to be the wettest period, while the dry season from June to December brings cooler temperatures and increased cloudiness.

In Ecuador’s Amazon region, the climate is characterized by three distinct seasons: wet, dry, and in-between. There is no ideal time to visit as each season has its advantages and disadvantages. The wet season from March to July brings heavy rains, although not necessarily every day, with higher river levels and pleasant temperatures. The dry season from December to March sees less rainfall, but some precipitation is still expected. During this time, temperatures and humidity increase, making activities less affected by rain, though river levels may be lower.

Understanding the seasonal variations in different regions of Ecuador will help you plan your visit accordingly and make the most of your trip.

Read more about the climate and weather in Ecuador here .

Best Places To Visit in Ecuador

Having personally visited some of Ecuador’s remarkable destinations, I can recommend several must-see places:

One of the top spots is Quito, the capital city . Its historic center, known as Quito’s Old Town , fascinated me with its well-preserved colonial architecture. Churches like the Basilica del Voto Nacional and panoramic views from El Panecillo made my visit truly memorable.

Another city that captured my attention was Cuenca . Stepping into its cobblestone streets and admiring the colorful colonial buildings was like stepping back in time. The Catedral de la Inmaculada Concepción and the nearby Ingapirca ruins showcased Ecuador’s rich heritage.

For nature enthusiasts, Cotopaxi National Park is a must-visit. I was in awe of the towering Cotopaxi volcano, and the park’s hiking and biking trails allowed me to immerse myself in its stunning landscapes.

Quilotoa Lake , located within a volcanic caldera, left me speechless with its turquoise waters. I hiked along the crater rim, taking in the breathtaking views. The nearby indigenous communities provided cultural encounters and insights into Andean life.

Additionally, the city of Baños should not be missed. Known for its hot springs and adventure activities, Baños offers an exciting blend of relaxation and adrenaline-pumping experiences.

Lastly, my Amazon experience in the Cuyabeno Reserve was unforgettable. Navigating the river by canoe, spotting monkeys and dolphins, and being surrounded by the lush rainforest showcased the incredible biodiversity of the Amazon.

Check out even more things to do and see in Ecuador in this article .

What Budget Do You Need?

During our trip through Ecuador Mainland, we spent 3400 US dollars over two weeks for two people, excluding tickets, PCR tests, and travel insurance. You can definitely reduce this amount by renting cheaper accommodation, using buses, and purchasing less expensive food. For example, we met a few traveling nomads who spent less than $500 for 30 days. To give you an idea:

• Accommodation : Budget travelers can find hostels or guesthouses starting at around $10-20 per night. Mid-range hotels typically range from $40-80 per night, while luxury accommodations can cost $100 or more per night.

• Transportation : Public transportation in Ecuador is super cheap. Local buses within cities usually cost around $0.25-0.50 per ride. Intercity bus tickets vary depending on the distance traveled, but expect to pay around $5-10 for shorter trips and up to $10-25 for longer journeys.
• Activities and Attractions : Entrance fees for popular tourist attractions in Ecuador can range from $2-10. Excursions, such as guided hikes or tours, vary in price depending on the duration and complexity of the activity, but budget around $30-100 per person for most day trips.
• Miscellaneous Expenses : Other daily expenses, such as bottled water, snacks, and souvenirs, can add up to approximately $5-10 per day.

These are rough estimates and prices can vary depending on the location, season, and personal preferences. It’s always a good idea to research specific destinations and activities in advance to get a more accurate understanding of costs and plan your budget accordingly.

As we journeyed along our travel route in Ecuador , I’ll provide a breakdown of our day-to-day expenses, giving you a clearer idea of the costs involved.

Safety in Ecuador

We felt safe during our trip to Ecuador, despite high crime rates,  particularly in the rural regions. However, you must still exercise caution, just like when visiting any city. This is especially true in the outskirts of major urban areas and popular tourist spots, where foreigners may be seen as vulnerable targets.

However, due to crime-related concerns, the US State Department advises against traveling to the northern regions of Carchi, Sucumbíos, and Esmereldas, which border Colombia.

It is advisable to be careful during nighttime hours. When in big cities, such as Quito and Guayaquil , pickpocketing can be a concern – but the same can be said of cities in so very many countries.

Nonetheless, we can confidently say that there were no safety issues throughout our entire trip, and we never felt endangered.

How to Stay Safe in Ecuador

We followed simple precautionary measures, such as a travel money belt for our money and smartphones and an anti-theft backpack for cameras and laptop. Nothing dangerous happened, not even once. In fact, the locals were both friendly and welcoming! But, as always, be cautious, avoid walking empty streets, and check whether somebody is following you once in a while.

Check more about Ecuador’s safety in this article.

Our tip: based on our personal experience, we advise against staying in Airbnbs, particularly in larger cities, as we found the experience to be unreliable. During our time in Quito, we encountered a concerning incident where it was evident that someone had entered our condo, although fortunately nothing was stolen. Additionally, in Cuenca, Airbnb cancelled our accommodation just a day before our arrival due to safety concerns at the property. Given these experiences, we highly recommend considering alternative options such as booking hotels. Websites like Trip.com or Booking.com offer convenient package comparisons, while Hostel World provides a wide selection of affordable hostels throughout Ecuador.

Essential Items to Pack for Your Ecuadorian Adventure

When preparing for your Ecuadorian trip, there are a few unusual items that we recommend bringing along:

• ChlorOxygen : If you’ll be visiting high-altitude areas, taking ChlorOxygen a week before your trip and continuing to use it can greatly help with acclimatization. It was a tremendous support for us in adjusting to the altitude.
• High Altitude Sunscreen : Due to the intensity of the sun at higher altitudes, it’s crucial to pack sunscreen specifically designed for high altitudes. This will provide better protection against the stronger UV rays.
• Safety Accessories: To safeguard against pickpocketing and ensure peace of mind, consider investing in safety accessories such as an anti-theft backpack . These bags are designed with security features to deter theft and keep your belongings safe.
• Hiking Boots : If you plan to explore Ecuador’s national parks and engage in hiking activities, sturdy hiking boots are essential. They will provide comfort, support, and traction, enabling you to navigate diverse terrains with confidence.
• Rain Jacket : Even if you’re traveling during the dry season, it’s wise to carry a lightweight rain jacket. Weather conditions in high-altitude areas can be unpredictable, and having a waterproof layer will protect you from unexpected rain showers.
• Reusable Water Bottle with Filter : Staying hydrated is crucial at high altitudes, and you may need more water than usual. A reusable water bottle with a built-in filter will allow you to refill it from various water sources, ensuring access to clean and safe drinking water throughout your trip.
• Travel Adapter: Ecuadorian outlets have different plug types, so a travel adapter will come in handy to charge your electronic devices and keep them powered up.

In addition to these unique items, don’t forget to pack typical essentials such as appropriate clothing for various weather conditions, toiletries, a first aid kit, necessary medications, and any personal items you may need.

Currency In Ecuador

Ecuador operates on the US dollar as its official currency , which makes it a convenient destination for travelers. If you’re from the US, you can bring your dollars directly. For those from Europe or Asia, it’s easy to exchange your local currency for US dollars, which are widely accepted throughout Ecuador.

Cash or Credit Cards?

Based on our experience, I highly advise against relying on credit cards in Ecuador. The country’s technological infrastructure is not as advanced, and many establishments, including popular businesses, lack point-of-sale (POS) systems. Even when available, credit card transactions can be slow, taking 3-4 minutes, and are prone to rejections.

To simplify your transactions, it is much easier to use ATMs and withdraw cash. If you choose to bring cash, opt for smaller denominations such as $20 bills. It’s important to note that some places may not accept $100 bills due to the prevalence of counterfeit currency in Ecuador, as merchants are cautious about accepting larger denominations.

Getting Around Ecuador

Getting around Ecuador is relatively easy and affordable. During our travels, we primarily relied on official taxis and Uber due to their affordability. For example, a 40-minute taxi or Uber ride typically costs around $10.

Buses in Ecuador are incredibly inexpensive, and a similar 40-minute ride may cost under $1. However, it’s important to note that buses can be less safe compared to other modes of transportation.

For longer distances between cities, domestic flights in Ecuador are reasonably priced. As an example, a flight from Quito to Guayaquil can cost around $70-100, and a flight from Quito to the Galapagos Islands can range from $200-400, depending on the season and availability.

On the other hand, renting a car in Ecuador can be relatively expensive. During our trip, we paid $1200 for a 12-day car rental. It’s worth noting that driving in Ecuador can be challenging due to factors like narrow roads, mountainous terrain, and local driving practices. For more information on driving in Ecuador, refer to the detailed article on this topic.

Altitude Sickness in Ecuador

One aspect to consider during your journey in Ecuador is the potential occurrence of altitude sickness. Quito is 2,850 meters above sea level, and the entire Andean region features high altitudes.

Our doctor highly recommended taking ChlorOxygen, Chlorophyll Concentrate Softgels a week before the trip and it helped us to adjust at such an altitude.

Altitude sickness affects individuals differently, with some being more susceptible than others. The reduced oxygen levels can cause rapid fatigue, particularly for those unaccustomed to high altitudes.

We advise refraining from strenuous physical activities during the initial days in high-altitude areas to give time to yourself to acclimate appropriately. If you start to feel unwell, taking breaks and rest is essential. During hikes, consuming coca leaf or coca tea is helpful as it alleviates symptoms of altitude sickness.

Ecuadorian Food To Try During Your Trip

Ecuador boasts a rich culinary scene with various popular dishes that showcase the country’s unique flavors. One of the most beloved dishes in Ecuador is ceviche. This refreshing delicacy consists of fresh, raw fish marinated in a tangy citrus juice, typically lime, which cures the fish.

Fish Ceviche

Ecuadorian ceviche is distinct in that it is served in a flavorful broth, often incorporating the lime juice and the liquid used to prepare the seafood. While shrimp and fish are the most common variations, you can also find vegetarian ceviche made with ingredients like hearts of palm or lupini beans ( chocho ).

Photo Wikipedia

Another iconic Ecuadorian dish that may surprise you is cuy asado , which translates to “roasted guinea pig.” This dish is a cultural specialty, particularly popular in the regions across the Andes. It involves barbecuing the guinea pig whole, creating a unique and flavorful culinary experience.

For those who love comfort food, llapingachos are a must-try. These fried potatoes or yucca patties are stuffed with cheese and served with a delectable peanut sauce. Often accompanied by sausage, eggs, and salad, llapingachos offer a satisfying and hearty meal.

If you are on a tight budget, a great food option is almuerzos . These multi-course meals will only cost you as little as $2!

Almuerzos typically include a variety of dishes, such as rice or potatoes, a small portion of greens, chicken or beef, soup, fresh juice, and a delightful dessert. 

These are just a few examples of the diverse and flavorful cuisine that Ecuador has to offer . Exploring the local gastronomy will undoubtedly be an exciting and rewarding experience during your visit to this vibrant country. I’ll cover all our food experiences in this Ecuador travel guide below.

Drinking Tap Water

Drinking tap water in Ecuador is generally not safe for travelers. While many locals can drink tap water without issues, it’s important to note that their digestive systems have adapted to the specific characteristics of the water and its contents. As a visitor, your gut may not be accustomed to the local water and its potential contaminants.

We suggest using a purifying water bottle while traveling in Ecuador to ensure that you are safeguarded against any potential parasites, pathogens, or other microbes that may be present in the water.

Phone & Data Providers in Ecuador

When it comes to phone and data providers in Ecuador, there are several options available through Movistar or Bacalo. However, during our trip, we discovered a convenient alternative by using the Airalo app to connect a virtual eSIM card to our iPhone.

By using Airalo , we paid only $21 for 30 days, which provided us with 3GB of data. This was sufficient for our needs and offered a hassle-free solution for staying connected throughout our journey. The app allows you to easily purchase and activate eSIM cards, eliminating the need to visit local providers or deal with physical SIM cards.

While other providers in Ecuador offer various data packages, the flexibility and affordability of the Airalo app made it a preferred choice for us. It allowed us to have instant access to data without the hassle of dealing with traditional phone and data providers.

Our Comprehensive 15-Day Itinerary for Exploring Mainland Ecuador

Day 1: exploring quito historic center.

We landed in Quito (the capital of Ecuador) at 2:00am and, later that morning, visited what is probably the most popular tourist attraction, the Basílica del Voto Nacional.

Basílica del Voto Nacional, Quito, Ecuador

It was only a minute away from our accommodation and the architecture was absolutely beautiful, both inside and out.

You’ve gotta pay 2 US dollars per person (yes, Ecuadorian currency is US dollars ) to get inside and 3 dollars per person if you want to go on the top. However, it’s well worth the price and I’d recommend doing both.

This is what it looks like inside.

Basílica del Voto Nacional (inside), Quito, Ecuador

And this is how you climb to the top of the tower.

Basílica del Voto Nacional (top of the tower), Quito, Ecuador

There’s also a hidden gem in the form of a café, where we had our first breakfast with an incredible view.

Later, we tried a traditional Ecuadorian drink called Colada Morada (the ingredients are different fruits, spices, and corn flour) in the hidden bar.

Colada morada (traditional Ecuadorian drink)

You can also climb to the most Instagrammable spot in the building, but we decided to skip that since there were so many people.

We were also tired of climbing, as Quito has a high elevation . It is located 2750 meters above sea level. Why is this important? Because many people have jetlag issues at such a high altitude. Some can’t sleep properly, while others experience headaches and nausea.

We asked our doctor for recommendations and she highly recommended ChlorOxygen, Chlorophyll Concentrate Softgels that help you to adjust at such an altitude.

We didn’t have any issues with headaches or sleeping so I can say it helped us, but that doesn’t mean you won’t feel the altitude. On the contrary, you will feel it every single time you go uphill –unless you’ve decided to travel to Ecuador straight after an Everest adventure.

The Basilica is located in Quito’s historic center , so we kept exploring this area and walking around the streets.

Historic Downtown in Quito, Ecuador

Exploring historic downtown in Quito Ecuador

Next, we went to explore a famous UNESCO World Heritage Site in Ecuador, the Quito Historic Center. We were on our own, but you can also book one of these free walking tours which were highly recommended by other travelers.

On our way to Quito’s old town, we saw mobile plans available near a pharmacy and decided to get local SIM cards.

The phone plans we got were from Movistar and came with unlimited calls and messages, plus 15GB of data. It cost 15 US dollars per person for a plan with an additional 4 dollars per person for a SIM card.

Ecuador is a Spanish-speaking country and I can’t say that many people understand English. For those worried about traveling to Ecuador with no knowledge of Spanish, like us, I can recommend two things:

• I studied some Spanish over the 45 days leading up to the trip, spending 1 hour per day on it via the “ LingQ app ”. I not only learned the basics but also picked up a lot of travel vocab, which was good enough to communicate during the trip. 
• Sometimes, when my basic skills weren’t enough, I simply used an offline Spanish-English translator via Google or Apple. That worked surprisingly well!

After getting our SIM cards, we continued walking Quito’s old town and spent plenty of time enjoying the local architecture.

Quito’s Historic District, Ecuador

You’ll be sure to find plenty of churches and historical buildings.

In the middle of the day, we felt tired, so we grabbed a quick lunch for takeout and decided to chill in our Airbnb rental.

Speaking of accommodation, we decided to stay in this Airbnb located in the historical center of the city. It looks really nice in the images, but it fits for category expectation/reality.

We paid only 160 US dollars for four nights. It looked great in the images and the description specified that the patio was part of the room. However, it turned out the patio was shared (they have since fixed the description) and the room was small, cold, and had uncomfortable beds. There was no heating and, on average, it was about 14 degrees Celsius or 53.6 Fahrenheit in the room, so we had to sleep in our clothes. Plus, because the building was extremely old, there were big gaps in the windows – which meant you could hear everything that was happening out in the street.

The historical center of Quito is a beautiful neighborhood during the daytime, when the streets are filled with people and there are plenty of police around. However, there is also a tremendous amount of poverty in the city, which translates into an unsafe environment at night where you can hear drunk people screaming, fighting, and breaking things.

Instead, I would recommend staying in the area called “La Mariscal” or “ La Carolina ”. It has a wide variety of beautiful buildings, parks, hotels, and shopping malls around. I would also recommend staying in hotels instead of Airbnb. Since they all sit at around the same price point, hotels are the more sensible option due to their security and services.

One of the best hotels to stay are Vista del Angel Hotel Boutique , La Casona de la Ronda Hotel Boutique , Hotel Casona 1914 and Casa Alquimia .

In the evening, we decided to go for a walk and find something for dinner. We stopped by a popular place in the historic town, “ Diosolopay ,” and had an amazing dinner trying Ecuadorian food and listening to live music. We ordered three entrees for 28 US dollars (which is considered expensive for Ecuador) and it ended up being so much that we had our leftovers for lunch the next day. The food was incredibly delicious and I would highly recommend visiting this restaurant in Quito .

Locro de Papa

Fritada Criolla

Day 2: Middle of the Earth, Pululahua Geobotanical Reserve, Museo Templo del Sol Pintor Ortega Maila

We took a 40-minute Uber ride, which cost us only 10 dollars, to the most popular tourist attraction in Ecuador: “Ciudad Mitad del Mundo” or Middle of the Earth . Once again, you can explore it on your own or get a free walking tour. 

“Ciudad Mitad del Mundo” or Middle of the Earth

This is one of the most popular things to see in Ecuador where you can actually stand on the line of the equator. Well, technically you’re not, but it’s pretty close.

“Middle of the Earth”, Quito, Ecuador

I didn’t expect much from this place as I thought it was going to be a typical tourist trap.

However, it exceeded my expectations. There’s a lot more to check out here in addition to taking a classic photo standing on the equator.

For once, you can reach the top of the building while learning some of Ecuador’s history.

Middle of the Earth from the top, Quito, Ecuador

To be honest, it’s more of a historical park about Ecuadorian history and culture than anything else, but it was extremely interesting.

Museum Part of “Middle Of the Earth”

There are Cacao Square, a planetarium, and ancestral homes that shows different parts of Ecuador.

We also had an amazing breakfast while watching a local performance.

Arroz con comaron

Reserva Geobotánica Pululahua

After that, we headed to Reserva Geobotánica Pululahua , which is quite a unique place. It’s a​​ beautiful geo-botanical reserve where you could witness how people live in the crater of an inactive volcano, looking down from the top.

Entry is free but an ID is required to get in. You can also go for a hike (or take a horse) from the top to explore the area. However we decided not to as, instead, we headed on to the next place which was only 2 minutes away by walking.

Museum temple of the sun painter Ortega Maila

This was the museum temple of the sun painter Ortega Maila . This place is an absolute paradise for anyone who loves architecture, art, culture, and history.

It was constructed by the indigenous Ecuadorian painter and sculptor Ortega Maila. He researched all the designs and the ancestral architecture to maintain the culture of Ecuador, resulting in a temple that is gorgeous from both the inside and outside. You can get a self-tour for 5 dollars or even ask for a guide for an additional cost.

Museo Templo del Sol Pintor Cristobal Ortega Maila (outside)

The temple has three floors to capture paintings and cultural objects. At the top, you’ll find another stunning view of the inactive volcano.

Museo Templo del Sol Pintor Cristobal Ortega Maila

Parque La Carolina

At the end of the day, we went to the popular local park named Parque La Carolina in the downtown area.

Parque la Carolina in Quito, Ecuador

We walked around, saw local life in the area, and tried out some street food. We shared this traditional Ecuadorian dish for dinner called Motte con chicharron (mote, cilantro, onion, tomato, fried pork belly and chili). The portion was particularly generous and the cost came in at just 2 US dollars. It’s likely the best 2-dollar dinner I’ll have in my life.

Motte con chicharron

There are more things in the park to explore, e.g. botanical garden:

Day 3: TelefériQo Cable car

On the third day, we went to another popular thing to do in the capital of Ecuador called TelefériQo cable car .

TelefériQo Cable car

This is a gondola lift that takes you all the way up to 3,945 meters (or 12,943 feet) above sea-level, so I highly recommend going only after you’ve already spent a few days in Quito and are adjusted to high altitudes.

The entry fee for tourists is 8.50 US dollars per person. We skipped breakfast because we wanted to get there as early as possible.

This meant that the line was still huge but mostly local.

However, I should note that it was Sunday, so perhaps try going during the week for a better experience. We bought empanadas near the gondola and finished them while waiting in the line.

Once at 3,945 meters, you can enjoy the views and drink a coffee or hot chocolate from this coffee place.

Coffee shop at the top of TelerefiQo

There are also a bunch of activities you can do on the top: hiking, biking, horse riding, and so on. You can also just take photos from the top with llamas and alpacas.

Or, for the more adventurous types, join the many people visiting the summit of Pichincha, an active stratovolcano.

The views are pretty much similar to the views from the “bottom,” but we decided to give it a go and hike from 3,945 meters (or 12,943 feet) to 4,700 meters (or 15,413 feet).

Hiking to Pichincha

It might seem like a small change in elevation but it was extremely exhausting because of the high altitude. If you’ve ever wanted to experience altitude sickness in safe conditions, this is the place to start. We were climbing very, very slowly because we needed to take deep breaths and have constant breaks every 5-10 steps.

On the way, we saw a few people who had almost fainted on the way down and felt quite bad, so don’t cross your limits trying to reach the summit of the volcano! If you start feeling a headache, dizziness, or nausea and if you aren’t experienced hiking at such altitudes, you’re better off turning back.

We started feeling bad 2.5 hours into the journey (we were at 4,500 meters, just a couple of hundred of meters short) and decided to go back.

When we returned to the coffee shop, the headache really kicked in and we started feeling bad. We had two hot chocolates, a tamale, and a slice of cheesecake, but it was hard to enjoy anything. After an hour of recovery, we started feeling better and took the gondola back down.

We wanted to see more places in the area but felt so exhausted that we headed back to our condo.

In the evening, we needed to do a little shopping because we intended to rent a car the next day. We went to Quitocentro , which is a nice mall, and had dinner in the food court. We stopped by a kiosk that we thought served local food but which turned out to be Chinese cuisine. Yup, we were that tired.

Day 4 (renting a car, driving tips, driving to Otavalo and visiting Otavalo market)

On the fourth day, we checked out of the condo and headed to pick up the car. When renting a car in Ecuador, you have a few options, like Alamo, Avis, Budget Car, Enterprise, and Europcar. You can also try local companies if you’re confident in your Spanish skills. In our case, we needed to pick the car up from Quito and drop it off in Guayaquil , 7 hours away. It was only these big names that offered such an option.

When comparing prices, you’ll see that manual transmission cars are way cheaper than automatic ones, while SUVs are way more expensive than basic sedans. It’s mandatory to buy insurance from the Ecuadorian companies even if you have third party coverage and make sure you pay attention to the number of KMs included. For example, Europcar provided me with the best quote for 11 days, which was an automatic SUV for 982 US dollars. However, they only included 100 kilometers (62 miles) per day. Every additional kilometer would cost 95 cents. The next cheapest option was Budget Car for 1142 dollars with 1500kms included and 50 cents per additional kilometer. Finally, Enterprise cost 1288 dollars with unlimited kilometers. We picked Enterprise and never regretted it – our trip mileage came in at over 2200 kilometers !

Cotopaxi Volcano view and the car we rented

I can highly recommend the Enterprise office in Quito Downtown (not the airport). Everything went smoothly and they were extremely helpful. We had an issue with my bank and they called Canada at their own expense to figure this out, allowing me to talk to my bank, which was great customer service. Due to these issues, the pickup process took about 2 hours before I got on the roads of Ecuador.

I felt quite anxious at first, but it was extremely easy to adapt to the Ecuadorian driving style: go pretty slow and don’t use turning signals. The road signs are a mix of common American & European signs so it’s easy to follow.

Driving to Otavalo

And our ride to Otavalo begins…

The desktop Google maps version told me it was about 1.5 hours away, but the mobile version said about 3 hours away. I thought it was because of the traffic but I later realized that my app had avoided toll roads and, as a result, I’d extended my trip… That being said, it was actually nice to see the country and the views.

We arrived at the Intiyaya hotel (La Casa Del Sol) in Otavalo.

Intiyaya Residences in Otavalo, Ecuador

It was an extremely authentic hotel that I’d highly recommend to everyone: I cannot describe the hospitality and attitude of the people who work there. Marcus, the owner, built the hotel by himself while following all the local traditions of this area in Ecuador. The hotel itself was like a museum.

The saddest part about the hotel was the guests… because we were the only ones staying in the whole hotel. Marcus said that not only had the pandemic really hurt the business, but also that people usually travel to Otavalo on the weekends and, thus, the hotel is rarely busy during the weekdays. Either way, we were the only residents during our 2-night stay. If you ever travel to Otavalo, I highly recommend booking this hotel : it’s inexpensive and the staff is extremely kind.

Our room was amazing and cozy. The bed and blankets were warm and comfy, making a great change from what we’d gotten used to in Quito’s Airbnb accommodation. We also had a nice terrace with views of Otavalo and a full fireplace. You had to pay 5 US dollars for firewood, but we were more than happy to support the hotel.

Otavalo is home to the indigenous Andean mountain people. It was completely different from Quito and we really liked the energy of the place.

Otavalo Market

We headed to Otavalo Market , probably the most popular indigenous market to visit in Ecuador. As I expected to see a variety of unique, handcrafted items, I was a little disappointed.

Many vendors sell exactly the same thing, meaning it became a typical mass market. But there are some unique things as well:

While it’s possible, there are more unique vendors on Saturday, it’s not worth visiting during the week.

Nevertheless, my wife bought a lamah sweater as a keepsake and memory from this part of Ecuador.

Many restaurants closed after 6pm, as it turned out, but we found one with a lot of locals inside. So we expected to see local food… but it was Chinese again! Well, sort of a local-plus-Chinese cuisine mix.

The portions were absolutely huge and neither of us were able to finish even half of the plate. It cost only 12 US dollars and we packed up the leftovers for tomorrow’s lunch.

Day 5 (Laguna de Cuicocha, Cascada de Peguche)

We started off with a cozy breakfast that was included in the hotel price, then headed to Laguna de Cuicocha .

Laguna de Cuicocha

Laguna de Cuicocha is a 3 kilometer (or 2 mile) wide caldera and crater lake at the foot of Cotacachi Volcano . It’s quite a popular hike to visit in the Northern Ecuador.

It’s a popular hike around the Otavalo area and was about 30-40 minutes away from the hotel. Everything was going well until we encountered a closed road and needed to find a detour. Let me tell you, in that situation Google Maps is not your friend…

TIP: I’d highly recommend using Waze maps , they work way better while traveling on Ecuador mainland

It was hard to find the entry point to Laguna de Cuicocha and all the maps seemed to send you in the wrong direction. You’ll encounter many unofficial signs saying “Laguna de Cuicocha Parkada” and asking to pay for parking.

The official entrance to Laguna de Cuicocha

You’ll see the official entrance to the park, which is free, but make sure to bring your IDs with you. There’s plenty of parking available and you’ll be as close as possible to the Laguna and the trail.

It’s an ideal, easy hike of a loop around the Laguna while enjoying spectacular 360-degree views.

It was a Tuesday so we didn’t encounter a single person during our time on the trail. However, we only did maybe 25% of the trail because we didn’t feel the need to see the same views from a different angle.

Many people drive all the way down to the water, where you can rent a boat for 3 US dollars per person and ride in the crater. We decided to skip that and headed for our next spot, right by our hotel.

Cascada de Peguche

When in Otavalo, it’s well worth visiting Peguche waterfalls .

Peguche Waterfall

The entrance fee was only 1 dollar per person and it offers another beautiful, easy hike – but, as usual, we didn’t see the sign and went off trail in the beginning. We appeared to be on a dirty trail and saw a suspension bridge, so I was 100% sure it was part of the trail.

However, the bridge was in a bad condition and really not safe to cross. There was no proper protection on its sides and the wood was old. While continuing our search for the waterfalls, we saw a local community from above with fascinating natural baths.

However, there was a sign stating “no entry and no photos” but surprisingly one of the local people invited us to see it. It turns out this was considered an Indigenous Ceremonial Site due to the purification baths. 10 minutes later we found the waterfall.

Honestly, it was nothing special but still beautiful – we were going to see way better waterfalls later on our trip. On the way back, we managed to follow the official trail. It was well made, not dirty, and scenic. Still, there are way better waterfalls to see in Ecuador.

That evening we enjoyed an authentic dinner in the hotel and had a good conversation with the owner (he spoke English very well). I don’t usually have dinner in hotels when traveling but we wanted to support this hotel in particular. Plus, since it was owned by local Indigenous people, we wanted to try their food.

We had crema de maiz, ceviche de chochos, and pollo al grill. Unfortunately, they didn’t have some of the cool entrees we wanted to try because the meat needed to be marinated for 24 hours and, since we were the only guests, they didn’t have it ready to hand. However, if you’re planning a stay, you can always ask them in advance!

Otavalo, Ecuador is a great area to visit. We highly enjoyed our stay with the Indigenous community and recommend visiting this area in Ecuador to everyone.

Day 6 (Drive to Hacienda, walking on the ranch)

It was sad to check out from this beautiful hotel, but our adventure had to continue: to the Cotopaxi National Park region which is one of the best places to visit in Ecuador . The road to the hotel took us about 3 hours (and we used the toll road this time!) 95% of the way was the highway, so it was easy to get from one place to another. Toll roads in Ecuador are extremely cheap ranging from $0.5-$1.

There are a few unique places you can stay. We really wanted to stay at two places:

• Our first option was a country house , with cozy rooms and views of Cotopaxi Volcano named Hacienda Los Mortiños . Unfortunately, our dates were unavailable to book, which was weird because other dates – like 1 day after or before – had plenty of rooms available. We contacted them but no one replied.
• Our second option was this Secret Garden , which looks like The Shire from Lord of the Rings. However, while waiting for a reply from Hacienda Los Mortiños, all the rooms became unavailable! So if you like either of these two options, be sure to book in advance.

Eventually, as we hadn’t received a reply from Hacienda Los Mortiños, we ended up staying at Hacienda El Rejo . Thankfully, we have no regrets whatsoever and can highly recommend them! The hotel is located on a farm, alongside many cows that are used for milk and cheese products only. While the room was spacious and with comfy beds, what we really loved was their lounge area.

When we arrived, we were extremely hungry and decided lunch to eat in the hotel. Most of their menu accounted for steaks and ribs at quite expensive prices for Ecuador. I got pork ribs and my wife had steak. It was nothing particularly special and cost us 35 US dollars – disappointing, after the standard we’d grown used to.

The weather had cleared up by the evening so we took a walk around the farm, discovering they actually have a trail around the area. It was a beautiful area with many farm animals around.

We headed out to find something for dinner at about 7:00pm, but by then almost all restaurants in the area were closed. Since only fast-food restaurants were still open, we headed back to the hotel and decided to check out their menu for the second time that. Unfortunately, they only had pizza and pasta on offer rather than any local goods, so we ended up ordering two homemade pizzas.

They were delicious, though, and after the hotel caretaker saw our frustration about dinner choices, we were promised a surprise in the form of a local dish the next day.

Day 7 (Quilotoa Lake)

In this particular area, we were planning to visit two major spots: Cotopaxi National Park and Quilotoa Crater Lake . Probably, the two most popular places to see in Ecuador. The weather forecast was not promising whatsoever: 100% chance of rains and thunderstorms.

We weren’t happy because it’s always best to visit these spots when the sky’s clear – not to mention the fact that both are located over 3,900 meters above sea-level, so it’s quite cold.

We initially wanted to visit Cotopaxi first, but once we saw there was “only” a 90% chance of rain there, we decided to drive to Quilotoa lake .

Quilotoa lake

It rained all day long. When the highway ended, there was a long serpentine road rose went from 2,500 meters all the way up to 3,900 meters. It became extremely foggy. Well, we were driving through the clouds. You can check how we drove in my video .

The cars were moving so slowly and there was no optimism whatsoever. But then…

We drove ABOVE the cloud and everything became crystal clear! Just wow! It felt like we’d driven through a portal and into a different world. In the meantime, the weather app switched to 100% rain for Quilotoa lake.

Here’s a valuable tip: DON’T TRUST THE WEATHER APP IN ECUADOR.

Going forward, the same situation happened a few more times. It’s a good thing this place is such a popular tourist spot, as I think the weather forecast stopped a lot of people.

It was so cool to drive at such an altitude and see the local communities.

Et voila, we arrived! The admission cost 4 dollars per person and the viewpoint was only a few minutes from the car. Quilotoa Lake hiking is definitely one of the best things to do in Ecuador !

Quilotoa Lake

Just wow. We were 3900 meters above the sea in front of an inactive water-filled crater lake belonging to the most western volcano in the Ecuadorian Andes .… and we were so happy that the weather was so clear! It was 2 degrees Celcius (35.6°F) but it felt like 10-12 (50-54°F).

You have several activities from there: you can explore the local communities, do a loop around the lake, or go all the way down to the lakeshore itself. It was “only” 220 meters elevation to deal with on the way back, so we decided to go down and see the dead water in the lake.

The hiking trail was absolutely stunning, although there were a lot of people on the way back who had been left exhausted by the elevation. Many were using mules to get all the way back and I felt so sorry for those poor creatures.

Finally, we were in front of the lake. The water isn’t suitable for swimming but you can rent a kayak for 6 US dollars for 30 minutes.

We spent about an hour kayaking in the crater and I can highly recommend this experience to everyone. It’s hard to describe the feeling but it’s like you’re on a different planet. However, all good things must come to an end: the clouds were coming towards us and the weather started getting worse.

Kayking in Quilotoa Lake

Eventually, we grabbed a few snacks and headed back. 220 meters in elevation may seem low, but not at 3900 meters! It took us almost 3 hours to reach the parking lot! We were so exhausted that we were even ready to rent a mule, despite how sorry we felt for them. However, you had to rent them right at the beginning at the bottom.

By the time we reached the peak, there were no views of Quilotoa lake anymore. Time to eat and refuel! We stopped in at a local place and had lunch – crema de choclo (2 dollars), lomo a la plancha (6 dollars), trucha a la plancha (6 dollars), batidos (2 dollars), and chocolate (2 dollars).

It was a great meal after such an adventure and we were so satisfied with the day as we drove back to the hotel .

At the hotel, the host had prepared a surprise dinner for us! It was a local white fish ( Corvina ) and was honestly the best meal I had during the whole trip (although my wife would disagree).

I don’t remember the last time I destroyed a fish dinner like this. While this was probably because I was so hungry after the intense day, I’d still suggest that, if you decide to stay at Hacienda , you make sure to ask for such a dinner! It cost us 27 US dollars for two people and it was totally worth it.

Day 8 (Cotopaxi, Driving to Banos)

The next day, we headed to Cotopaxi National Park . Can you guess what the weather forecast was? It was exactly the same story as Quilotoa .

When we reached Cotopaxi National Park we found out that we needed to register. Surprisingly, however, there was no admission fee.

After entering, the rangers remind you of the strict speed limit (30 km/h) and off you go. Keep in mind, however, that the pavement ends after 2 kilometers and the road just keeps getting worse and worse.

Cotopaxi National Park

Laguna de Limpiopungo (Latacunga)

The first stop on our route was Laguna de Limpiopungo (Latacunga) . It’s a scenic lagoon that offers beautiful views. When the weather is good, it’s even possible to see the reflection of the Cotopaxi volcano.

Laguna de Limpiopungo

The hike is flat and easy and, if you’re lucky, you can spot live horses roaming around (we only spotted wild horse poops).

While the landscape here is unreal and stunning, just wait for the next spot…

Finally, time to visit one of the most popular spots in Ecuador! We drove all the way to try and hike one of the highest active volcanoes named Cotopaxi and get as close to its 5000-meter peak as possible!

The most common hike is from the parking lot (4600 meters above sea-level) to Refuge Jose Ribas (4800 meters). If you’re about to drive into the parking lot like we did, make sure you’re in a car with high clearance.

Parking lot by Cotopaxi Volcano

You’re going all the way up a terrible road and I had to push on the gas non-stop because the car was so much slower than usual at such an altitude.

When we reached the parking lot, we weren’t actually able to see the peak.

Oh well, the weather was constantly changing. We hiked all the way up to Refuge Jose Ribas (4800 meters), which took us about 2 and a half hours! It was hard to hike at such an altitude but so worth it.

I felt euphoric the whole way, I mean just look at that:

The red eruption looks like Mars and the view to the valley… Just unreal!

The weather was changing constantly … we’re talking every 30 seconds or so! The peak was hidden and then could suddenly be seen clearly every once in a while.

There was a little cafe at Refuge Jose Ribas, as well as an overnight shelter for those who were intending to climb all the way to the summit. We spent 10 US dollars on these snacks:

I would definitely recommend grabbing enough snacks and water.

We wanted to climb more to reach the 5000-meter mark but the glacier had started melting and we didn’t have the proper equipment, not to mention zero experience. In fact, if your intention is to reach the summit, then it’s best to get a guided tour . The highest point we reached on that day was 4908 meters.

I highly recommend going to Cotopaxi National Park . I was so tired after such an amazing day but the trip wasn’t over – we had to drive to our next destination to see in Ecuador – city of Banos .

Banos (the city of bathrooms) is an extremely popular destination for both tourists and locals. This is for a few reasons:

• Unique nature
• Many waterfalls and thermal baths
• Huge variety of different extreme activities (like rock climbing through waterfalls, bungee jumping, rafting, and paragliding) and not so extreme activities (like zip lines, canoeing, and biking tours)
• Nice infrastructure including many hotels, restaurants, and everything you need to enjoy a nice weekend

It was a 2-hour drive. When we arrived, we were so exhausted that we just ordered pizza, had a shower, and fell asleep.

Day 9 (Pailon del Diablo Waterfall, Cascada Machay, Manta de la novia)

New day, new adventure. According to the weather app, it was supposed to be rainy (even snowy one day) with a temperature of about 5-10 degrees… In reality, it was sunny and reached 30 degrees. That says all you need to know about the weather app.

Banos is an extremely popular town for both tourists and locals. We were there during the weekend and it was crowded! Finally, we were sharing a hotel with someone else.

The hotel ( Aldea Real Eco Friendly ) was so nice, with an amazing balcony view, a good breakfast, and relatively cheap for the area.

After such a nice morning, we headed to the #1 waterfall to see in Ecuador: Pailon del Diablo Waterfall .

Pailon del Diablo Waterfall

There are two entrances and each asked for a submission of 2 dollars per person. We arrived at 10:30 am, basically when everyone had just finished breakfast, and… It was really unusual to see such crazy crowds in Ecuador. It was crowded as hell!

Apparently, we picked the worst day and time to visit Pailon del Diablo Waterfall . Even though it was so powerful and beautiful, such a huge crowd killed everything. This waterfall is marked as one of the best things to do in Ecuador in many ratings so no surprise it was so crowdy. With no one controlling the volume of people, after 10 minutes we decided to leave and come back for a proper visit on Monday morning, so more to come 🙂

Instead, we decided to check out less popular places. The best part about Banos is that there’s just so much to do that you can really pick your own path. Many love their extreme activities. There are so many available here for reasonable prices .

Honestly, we skipped that. After driving and seeing so much of Ecuador, you could tell that there’s not much in the way of health and safety regulations in the country. I wasn’t too sure about the equipment and standards they use for extreme activities… But it’s always a personal decision and that’s just us.

The Waterfall Route (Ruta de las Cascadas)

Instead, we decided to check out The Waterfall Route ( Ruta de las Cascadas ), which is an amazing 61-kilometer road with many waterfalls along the way. If you aren’t planning to rent a car, you can rent an ATV/Buggy to enjoy the route at a rate of 15-20 US dollars per hour.

Machay Waterfall

Each waterfall you see along the way is unique, so we decided to randomly stop at the Cascada Machay (admission is 1 dollar per person). There’s a really steep staircase leading down but the atmosphere was amazing.

You felt more like you were the tropics, it was so green around and you heard so many wild animals… And we didn’t see a single person!

The waterfall was beautiful. We didn’t expect the weather to be as hot as it was and we found ourselves wishing we’d brought our bathing suits. There were only a few people downstairs so we chilled, enjoyed nature, and had a little snack.

For the journey back, we had to go up 191 meters. We were ready to spend 2-3 hours climbing back… but it only took us 19 minutes! We forgot that Banos is located at “just” 1800 meters above sea-level. We were so happy to be able to breathe properly again.

We felt hungry and decided to grab some of the street Ecuadorian food on our way. These skewers were only 4 dollars altogether.

Manto de la novia gondola

After lunch, we didn’t feel like more hiking so we took the Manto de la Novia gondola (only 2 dollars per person), which was quite a cool experience.

Banos Downtown

Banos, Ecuador

After, we made our way back to the hotel as we wanted to check out the weekend vibe in Banos. The city is quite nice and the weekend vibe was absolutely great.

There were so many restaurants to check out – we stopped by an Argentinian one called “ Cimarron Parrilla ”, where they sold us their “unique steak special”. The appetizers were delicious, especially blood sausage:

But the “unique steak special” was not good:

The food was so-so and cost about 30 US dollars.

Day 10 (Jungles day, Finca Mirador Indichuris, Secret Waterfall)

It was Sunday in Banos and we wanted to get away and try out the jungle experience. Banos is located near the Amazon Basin, so we drove through the Puyo to “ Finca Mirador Indichuris .” This is a particularly nice viewpoint overlooking the rainforest, amazon, and jungle!

It’s a one-and-a-half drive hour from Banos and it’s simply amazing to see how much nature changes as you go down. Driving through Ecuadorian forests and especially the rainforest was a completely different experience like we had moved to a different country altogether. It was 32 degrees outside and extremely humid.

Finca Mirador Indichuris

Finca Mirador Indichuris is a really nice viewpoint with a few caves along the way and cozy hammocks to chill in! And, of course, there are always a few cool spots for Instagram shots.

After that, we decided to check out the local area and community. Surprisingly, it had quite a nice infrastructure!

Cascada Vida Natural

As we were driving we saw the sign “Waterfall” in Spanish that led to an unpaved narrow, road through the forest. While it looked scary, you didn’t even need an SUV. There were no signs but I found the spot via Google later on – it’s marked as “ Cascada Vida Natural ”.

There was a local community in the area and one of them asked us to pay an admission fee of 5 dollars. It was the only “rip off” we experienced because it was a public area. Oh well, we didn’t want any trouble with the locals so we just paid and asked for directions to the waterfalls.

By mistake, we went the wrong way. We ended up climbing an extremely muddy, very steep hill.

It wasn’t even a part of the trail! The locals who passed this part, themselves on a higher section of the official trail, were surprised to see us climbing there.

We reached the official trail, went all the way up, and found another viewpoint. It was nothing special – the previous viewpoint was way more scenic.

I can’t describe how wet and muddy we were by this point, so we definitely needed to find this freaking waterfall. Finally, we found the right path. From the parking lot, you simply crossed a little bridge and turned right. That was all.

It was our first jungle experience and we were completely alone. Unfamiliar sounds, insects, plants, spider webs… It was a little bit scary and so incredibly hot due to the extreme humidity.

20 minutes later, we spotted this small but scenic waterfall in the jungle.

10 seconds after we found it, we were swimming in it. It absolutely made our day. Refreshing, crystal clear water in the jungle. We swam for over an hour, completely alone until a local family joined us. Keep in mind, it was a weekend, so I guess it must be really empty during the week – in which case, I’d highly recommend this spot to visit during your Ecuadorian trip!

We were completely satisfied and happy. We needed to finish everything up with a late lunch (it was almost 4 pm) and randomly stopped at a restaurant named “ La Casona ” in Puyo. Surprisingly, it had an amazingly scenic patio right in the rainforest – and, even better, extreme rain started! Just wow!

La Casona restaurant in Puyo, Ecuador

The pricing was more than reasonable and the food was so good. We had these stunning chicken entrees (gratinado and pollo champione), but the menu was huge.

It seemed like a fancy place serving the local community and the owners were so surprised to see tourists like us! They asked us to recommend the restaurant to everyone heading to the Puyo area, so that’s exactly what we’re doing. Just 20 US dollars for such a nice meal with a stunning view! We highly recommend this place!

Being extremely satisfied with the day, we headed back to the hotel to chill on our patio.

Day 11 (Pailon del Diablo Waterfall, Swing at the end of the world and Luna Hotel)

Finally, it’s Monday and the city of Banos has once again become so empty. First thing in the morning, we went back to Pailon del Diablo Waterfall . It opened at 9:00 am and we were there by 8:50 am. This time, we used different gates because they offered a unique experience to feel the waterfall. The gates were open but every single shop nearby was closed. The admission was 2 dollars per person. We were there completely alone! This was such a nice feeling after the immense crowds we saw on Saturday.

We reached the falls in about 15 minutes.

The best part about the falls is you can go through the caves and end up behind the waterfall! Just wow!

The cave was so tight as it was, I can’t imagine how they handle the traffic when there are loads people on the trail. You need to crawl through some parts and there’s only enough room for one person. It’s hard to show on the images so you can check “ Ecuador mainland travel guide video ” at 36:12.

Be ready to get soaked if you want to get all the way behind the waterfall! Now I see why this waterfall is one of the most popular places to visit in Ecuador.

Swing at the End of the World

Afterwards, we needed to check out from the current hotel but we had intended to spend one more night in Banos . We booked a fancy, romantic hotel that I’ll talk about later, but we had a few hours to kill before check-in. So, we headed to another hotspot in Banos (and Ecuador) called “ Swing at the End of the World ,” which is a particularly popular place if you want to take pictures from the peak.

It was so good that Monday, as only a few people were there and we were able to enjoy the swings and take beautiful shots. I can’t imagine the lines here during the weekend. If you’re heading to Banos , make sure to do it during the week! The admission was just 2 dollars per person and it’s definitely worth a visit.

Luna Volcán Adventure SPA hotel

Finally, it was time to check in at Luna Volcán Adventure SPA hotel ! Oh my god, this was exactly what we needed. We were tired of such an active trip and this hotel offered everything for us to chill and recharge.

It’s a high-end hotel located at the 400-metre point above Baños .

It has so many unique, different, romantic rooms with great views. While it’s quite expensive, as we paid 240 US dollars for the night, keep in mind that a high-end dinner and breakfast are both included. Plus, 4 pools are available, alongside the ultimate selling point: jacuzzi with hot volcanic water at the edge of the mountain!

If you’re going to splurge, I would highly recommend booking a room from the official website rather than an aggregator like Booking or Expedia, because you can pick a specific room and upgrade the way you want!

I gotta say, it was so worth it. If I had the budget, I would stay here for as long as I could. The jacuzzi was amazing, the dinner was extremely delicious with great service, and the room was just outstanding. There’s no need to say anymore, just check out the images.

Day 12 (7-hour drive to Cuenca)

Time to leave Banos for the next amazing destination: the historical city of Cuenca in Ecuador . It was a long 7-hour drive and, due to time limitations, we had to pass a few cool spots on the way – Riobamba city , Chimborazo volcano… But it was also great to drive through the country and see the lives of local people. You could see what the real Ecuador was like and the village areas are so different to what you see in the cities.

The landscapes were unreal but the road was quite hard. There are strong curves with inclines and descents all the way, not to mention there being only one lane. Some cars were going as slow as 15 km/h and it was quite risky to pass them due to curves and turns.

One good thing is that each gas station we stopped at had really nice, very clean washrooms. This was a relief because we had been worrying about it. Just make sure to have toilet paper with you every time you go to the washroom!

We booked some pretty cool accommodations in Cuenca through Airbnb but unfortunately, they refunded our money and canceled it 2 days prior to the trip. Neither we nor the host was sure what happened, so I reached out to Airbnb support. They advised us that the place received a few complaints with safety concerns. Oh well, we were actually quite relieved after our Airbnb experience in Quito , so we decided to just arrive and book something last-minute. We ended up in a 5-star Oro Verde hotel for only 85 dollars per night. What a treat.

By the way, there are some extremely cool and reasonably priced hotels to stay in Cuenca we were not able to book like Mansion Alcazar , Hotel Carvallo , or Hotel Raymipampa .

I was absolutely exhausted after driving, so we ordered Paella and some desserts through the local app “ PedidosYa ” (the local version of UberEATS). That was pretty much it for this day.

Day 13 (Cuenca)

The city of Cuenca in Ecuador is a MUST VISIT in Ecuador if you’re into architecture. They have it all!

After an amazing breakfast buffet at the hotel, we were ready to explore.

Amaru Zoológico Bioparque

But first… my wife wanted to visit a unique open-air zoo to see the Ecuadorian wildlife in Amaru Zoológico Bioparque . We’re against zoos in general, but this one in particular was supported by environmental zoological organizations with the intention of protecting those animals that were either unable to live in the wild or which had been seized from illegal organizations and hunters.

The zoo is located at the top of the city and has some nice views.

It’s also quite unusual in that it’s open-air, derived into different Ecuadorian regions, and is made as a long one-way trail. It took us almost 2 hours to finish the trail, even though we tried to be as fast as we could.

It was great to see the wildlife of Ecuador . There were a few animals that I got to see for the first time in my life, such Spectacled bears , many bird species, and incredibly reptiles .

On the stands along the trail, you can also read horror stories about how the government has destroyed some Ecuadorian forests and animals can’t live in their natural habitats, or how illegal hunters are devastating rare species.

I also loved the “garbage” part of the trail, talking about the importance of recycling and how bad trash is for nature.

Considering the fact that many parents bring their children here, it’s a great opportunity for education as Ecuador is hardly an eco-friendly country.

Cuenca’s historical city center

Once we were done, we headed to the historical city center of Cuenca. Cuenca’s architecture is from the 18th century and they do their best to maintain it in the best condition. Because of that, Cuenca’s historic downtown was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO . Once again, you can explore it on your own or get a free walking tour , but make sure to book in advance.

The city center felt way safer when walking in Quito . In fact, Cuenca is considered a safe city in Ecuador . It really felt like we were walking somewhere in Europe. Cathedrals, cafes, markets… everything felt so cozy. The streets were incredibly clean and there were so many fashionable locals.

We stopped by this cozy cafe for lunch, right in front of “Catedral de la Inmaculada Concepción”. It was so delicious, too!

We also tried the popular local street dessert Espumilla. It cost only 1 dollar.

After exploring the historical center, we headed to “Ruinas de Pumapungo”.

Unfortunately, the weather got worse and the rain started pouring, so we did not have much time to check it out but it’s something you should totally visit in Ecuador.

We wanted to explore Cuenca’s restaurants in the evening for dinner since Cuenca is famous for a few cool traditional Ecuadorian dishes such as Cuy asado (grilled guinea pig), or Lechón al horno (a pork dish).

Unfortunately, my wife started feeling unwell so we ordered delivery again and didn’t have the chance to try either.

Day 14 (Cajas National Park and Driving to Guayaquil)

The next morning, we checked out early in order to drive all the way down from 2500 meters above sea-level back to sea-level itself, to Guayaquil through El Cajas National Park .

The park has unreal views based on the photos on the internet – when I looked them up, they reminded me of Cotopaxi national park but greener.

Unfortunately, we didn’t have much time to explore this national park.

We stopped in a few spots but there are more to explore!

El Cajas is one of the best national parks to visit in Ecuador . Oh well, after all the luck we’d had with Quilotoa lake and Cotopaxi National Park , we weren’t complaining. Besides, the drive had been pretty scenic!

We arrived in Guayaquil at about 2pm and needed to do PCR tests before our Galapagos journey . I really hope that by the time you read this article, you’ve forgotten all about PCRs and can barely remember what COVID is. Unfortunately, we had to spend over 24 hours in Guayaquil because of that.

Guayaquil is the biggest and most criminal city in Ecuador . The traffic was so crazy and stressful. After taking our PCR tests, we grabbed KFC for lunch and began the drive through the city’s downtown area so we could return the car. Let me tell you, it was quite a challenge. Extreme traffic, no one respecting anyone on the road… I was so happy to return the car and get to the hotel.

I felt incredibly tired after the intense drive, so we chilled in the hotel and ordered takeout for dinner for the third night in a row.

Day 15 (Exploring Guayaquill)

Finally, our last day on the Ecuador Mainland trip. We didn’t feel like exploring Guayaquil at all but had been forced to stay in the city to get our PCR test results. While the city has many beautiful places, we were so tired by this point that we really wanted to get away to the Galapagos islands ASAP.

In addition, Guayaquil is the most dangerous Ecuadorian city . So it’s best to  take this city tour  or one of  these free walking tours because it will be safer than exploring the city on your own.

Also, make sure to stay in a safe area, e.g.we booked  Wyndham Guayaquil Hotel  and we had an amazing stay with a nice neighborhood around.

Malecon 2000

Nevertheless, we took a cab to “ Malecon 2000 ,” which is a riverside boardwalk with a bunch of local shops and cafes. It’s a nice place and has security all over, if you have concerns about safety.

While walking, we noticed that part of the park was closed in preparation for Guayaquil Independence day, which was about to take place the next day.

We walked around the area and found a few cool architectural buildings, like “​​Palacio de la Gobernación del Guayas,” as well as a local live orchestra playing the Guayaquil Independence composition.

Parque Seminario

We also recommend visiting Parque Seminario , which has not only a nice historical church, but also a lot of land iguanas and turtles throughout the park. That was a big surprise!

Later, we returned to Malecon, had lunch, and headed to the hotel to pack for the Galapagos Islands . Overall, I can’t say that Guayaquil is a must-visit place in Ecuador.

This was an amazing trip through Ecuador’s mainland that we greatly enjoyed. We’ve visited so many incredible places but, of course, there’s always more. When planning the Ecuadorian trip, we had a few alternative destinations we wanted to visit. After all, Ecuador has such variety to it and 2 weeks is only a limited timeframe. If you didn’t like our route, you can also consider these spots:

• Mindo is a small town located in the middle of cloud forest and offers activities like waterfalls, ziplines, and natural baths. It’s sort of like Banos but more tropical.
• The Amazon experience . There are so many different Amazon tours, either for just one day or over multiple days. For us, after watching too many YouTube videos, we didn’t find the views to be particularly beautiful or unique. We mostly saw dirt and humidity, but many people go to Ecuador specifically for Amazon experience.
• Coastal Ecuador is also quite unique. One of the most popular cities is Manta . The only reason we decided to skip this part of Ecuador is since our trip also included a visit to the Galapagos Islands .
• Hiking, climbing, camping, and mountain biking are available in all national parks in Ecuador and many travelers we met along the way provided good feedback.
• Alausi The Devil’s Nose Train Ride is also a one-of-a-kind attraction with great scenery and views. ( UPDATE: it went bankrupt and was discontinued )

Finally, let me cover a few popular questions about Ecuador based on my experience:

Traveling in Ecuador FAQ

Can i travel without any knowledge of spanish.

I had absolutely no Spanish knowledge when we booked the trip and only 2 months to learn the basics. Because we travelled on our own, we really needed to know a little Spanish – luckily, a friend of mine recommended the LingQ app . It was definitely a life-saver because I had to communicate in Spanish on multiple occasions, such as with national park officers and hotel receptions, when ordering food, and so on. Luckily, no conversations with any cops took place! I only used the app once a day for just 1 hour and I pretty much learned the basics. I was able to maintain simple conversations, order food, use gas stations, ask for directions, and so on. Of course, it was definitely broken Spanish but it was also extremely helpful. Alternatively, you can also use free translators from Google or Apple, as I had to on a few occasions. However, as we hopefully all know by now, the translations aren’t always 100 percent accurate and it takes a lot more time to communicate. To sum up, with today’s technology, you can easily travel Ecuador without any knowledge of Spanish. However learning the simple basics will make your trip both more pleasant and far easier.

Should I take any medication before traveling to Ecuador?

We would recommend checking your official country’s advisory. My wife and I had the Yellow Fever vaccine as it seems to be especially common in the Amazon region.

Most importantly, think about the need to adjust to such a high altitude when planning your trip. Quito, the capital of Ecuador and the first destination of many travelers, is located 2,850 meters (or 9,350 feet) above sea-level. A lot of people struggle at this altitude and have troubles over the first few days, as they can’t properly breathe or sleep. Our doctor recommended we take Chlorophyll (specifically ChlorOxygen ) one month before the trip, as it helps you traveling to or living in high altitude locations by increasing the amount of oxygen available to our cells. It was EXTREMELY helpful. At the end of our trip, after we’d stopped taking ChlorOxygen  and when we came back from Galapagos to Quito for the flight home, it was a pain! We weren’t able to sleep through the night due to a lack of oxygen, yet in our first days we had been perfectly adjusted.

Finally, if you’re also planning to travel to the Galapagos Islands , make sure to grab travel pills if you tend to experience seasickness. Traveling between the islands will take from 2 to 2 and a half hours on a small boat in the open ocean.

Should I rent a car or use public transport in Ecuador?

You’ll save a lot of money if you use public transportation. The buses between the cities are extremely cheap, coming in at about 6 dollars per person for 200-300 kilometers (or 125-185 miles). However, the accident rate involving buses is also quite high, not to mention the fact that you have to stick to the schedule when you’re depending on public transport.

The taxi and Uber services are quite cheap, too, so if you’re staying in the big cities for a few days then I’d recommend using them. For example, a 45-minute ride cost us only 9 dollars.

If you decide to rent the car, like we did, then you’ll be saving a lot of money if you’re able to drive stick or manual. We can’t, so we had to overpay by about 30% for renting a car with an automatic transmission. Ultimately, we paid 1238 US dollars for 11 days (unlimited kilometers). I would also recommend renting an SUV if you intend to visit volcanoes and lagoons.

Is it dangerous to drive in Ecuador?

I honestly expected driving to be way more dangerous than it was. Surprisingly, the drivers aren’t aggressive at all! The road conditions are fairly good unless you’re heading to village areas or through some specific areas of the national parks.

When in traffic, you might see sudden or seemingly random actions on the road, since absolutely nobody uses turn signals and many completely ignore red lights. However, everyone drove smoothly, they weren’t aggressive, and I didn’t stress at all while driving there. Of course, things are slightly different for each and every driver, but I got used to it within the first hour. I’d say the most dangerous parts of driving were the curves in the roads and the chance of getting distracted by the unreal views during the drive. I shared more tips about driving in Ecuador here.

Have more questions? Throw them in the comments! If you find this guide valuable, I will highly appreciate if you buy me a coffee or use my referral links 🙂 It took some effort to combine all this information into an Ecuador travel guide.

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About the author.

Oleg Galeev

I'm Oleg, and together with my wife, we've explored Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands, journeying through more than 20 cities ( Quito , Cuenca , Banos , Tena , Puyo , Guayaquil , Riobamba , Otavalo , Mindo and more) and nearly every island in the Galapagos (including iconic ones such as Bartolome Island , San Cristobal Island , Isabela Island , Santa Cruz Island and more). In this blog, I give you my real thoughts about each place we visited. This info can help anyone planning a trip to the Galapagos Islands or mainland Ecuador . I'm just a traveler, not a tour company, so I'm not trying to sell anything. That means I'll tell you the truth—both the good and the bad — about traveling in Ecuador based on what we experienced.

Wow! So much awesome information! I am hoping to visit some time soon but don’t really want to use the tour guides and hope to do the visits on my own with a rental. Thank you for all the info

Glad to hear my Ecuador travel guide is helpful 🙂

Great travel experience, I am planning 20 days driving trip in Ecuador, it is very helpful

Have a good trip to Ecuador! Glad it was helpful.

Please do not call Baños “the city of bathrooms!”. It’s referring to the thermal baths caused by the Tungurahua volcano.

Otherwise your insight and travels are interesting.

Me encanta Como muestra mi país ecuador, lleno de encanto

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Ultimate Ecuador Travel Guide (From A Local!)

Often overshadowed by neighboring Colombia, Peru, and Brazil, Ecuador is a small country packed with travel potential. While many visitors are drawn here by the Galapagos Islands and stay for only a day or two in Quito, mainland Ecuador is packed with natural beauty, history, and adventurous travel opportunities. Don’t miss out on this hidden gem of travel!

In this ultimate guide to travel to Ecuador, we’re sharing all about the must-visit destinations in Ecuador, plus when to visit and how to see it all best.

After living in Quito, Ecuador for 2+ years as expats , we learned so much about this country and had the opportunity to travel to the best places Ecuador has to offer. Now we’re sharing all we’ve learned with you for your ultimate! travel experience in Ecuador.

This post contains affiliate links that may reward me monetarily or otherwise when you use them to make qualifying purchases – at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, please read our  disclosure policy .

Ecuador Travel Guide

Ecuador uses the U.S. dollar – making it an easy destination to visit for U.S. travelers. In addition, Ecuador also has its own coins of the same value as those from the U.S.

Spanish is the official language, with Quichua sometimes used in indigenous communities in the central Andes Mountain region.

Ecuador’s Spanish is quite easy to understand for foreigners and Spanish learners, generally, so it’s a great idea to learn Spanish in Quito or any of the other charming cities in Ecuador .

English is spoken in the tourism sector, but not as widely as you may hope for. Learning even just a few key phrases of travel Spanish will make navigating much easier for you. As always, make sure you have also downloaded the Google Translate app!

Electricity

The electrical current used in Ecuador is 110V 60 Hz, and uses the standard two-prong sockets used in the United States.

For travelers with devices with other prong designs, check out our reviews of the best travel adapters and converters for our recommendations for the best we’ve used. 

Transportation

Most international flights will arrive in the country’s two largest airports – Quito and Guayaquil – and from there on to smaller airports. Ecuador has an extensive network of buses that will take you just about anywhere you’d like to go, both regionally and locally.

Taxis are also plentiful, and ride-share services are quickly growing in popularity in the country.

I never experienced anything unsafe during my two years living in Ecuador, even as a female solo traveler. However petty crime like pickpocketing can happen if you don’t stay alert. Make sure you keep your purse or backpack in front of you when in crowded areas.

I always keep zippers clipped together with an s-biner micro lock , an inexpensive but successful safety hack I’ve used for years while traveling in Latin America.

I recommend dressing as low-key as possible and taking care of displaying electronics in public – don’t walk around with your phone or camera in your hand when not using them, but put them away and secure them when not in use.

Read More: Is Ecuador Safe? Ecuador Safety Guide

Plan a Trip to Ecuador

• Best Things to Do in Quito
• Where to Stay in Quito
• Ultimate Ecuador Itinerary: 10 Days in Ecuador
• Ultimate Guide to the Otavalo Market
• Best Cotopaxi Day Trips

When to Visit Ecuador

High tourist season in Ecuador runs from June through September, generally corresponding with dry season in much of the country.

Galapagos cruises, on the other hand, are generally more popular December-June due to calmer waters and warmer weather in the region.

While I generally recommend traveling to Ecuador in the dry season of June through September, you can also consider the shoulder season of October and November.

You’ll get some fantastic weather and warm days in most of the country during these seasons, with some summer travelers clearing out in time for October and November.

Since Ecuador is not generally too over-touristed, you likely won’t feel overwhelmed at major attractions even if you choose to travel in high season. Prices may be higher for high-ticket experiences like Galapagos cruises and some hotels, but things shouldn’t be more expensive across the board.

Given its location on the equator, Ecuador has only two seasons – rainy season and dry season – with temperatures and precipitation varying between the country’s four main regions.

The Highlands – The Andes

Dry season in the mountains and highlands is from June – September, with the wettest months of the rainy season from December – March. However, even in the rainy season, you’re likely to see just about an hour of afternoon rainy, and a pleasant, even warm, day in the morning. The weather is springlike year round but can get hot when the sun comes out and cold in the evening.

The coast experiences a tropical climate year round with less of the seasonality that you’ll find at higher altitudes like in the highlands. Average temperatures sit around of 78°F / 26°C with the hottest months being from February through April. 

The eastern part of the country tends to be hot and humid year round, and sporadically rainy with an average temperature around 78°F / 26°C. While it can be hard to predict the rainy, August through September and December through March tend to have periods of drier weather.

The Galapagos

The Galapagos are warmer and wetter from December through June, but experience the best sailing conditions, making this peak tourist season for Galapagos cruisers.

The islands mimic the dry season of the highlands, and it tends to be cooler – though still springlike – and drier from July through November.

What To Pack for Ecuador

Check out our  Ultimate Ecuador Packing List   to help you pack for your trip – we’re sharing exactly what to bring to Ecuador and what we never travel without.

Must-Visit Destinations in Ecuador

Quito is an incredible capital city with so much to see and do. Too many visitors skip over Quito for the capitals in Colombia or Peru or only spend a day there on their way to the Galapagos – big mistake!

Quito has the largest and best-preserved colonial center in all of Latin America, and you feel that history everywhere. There are countless colonial churches and ornate buildings to see, including the breathtaking Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesus covered from floor to ceiling in gold. 

The views from every corner of this city, nestled in a valley among mountains and volcanoes, are unrivaled. Climb up to the top of the basilica spire for a view of the entire city.

Make sure you take the TeleferiQo cable car up the side of the dormant volcano over the city for most incredible views of the valleys below – on a clear day, you can see at least 5 other snow-capped volcanos in the distance.

Plan a Trip to Quito

• Ultimate Guide to Day Trips from Quito
• Quito to Cotopaxi:Best Excursions and How to Visit

Ecuador’s number one attraction and a main draw for many visitors to this country, the Galapagos are absolutely worth the trip. Whether you have time for one of these long Galapagos itineraries or just a quick visit to one of the main islands, there are all kinds of ways to visit this unforgettable destination.

While you can visit the islands directly, taking a multi-day cruise is the best way to see as much wildlife as possible and get from island to island as easily as possible. You’ll see wildlife you can’t find anywhere else on Earth , and the opportunities for snorkeling and diving are second to none.

While Galapagos cruises, and even overland tours, can be pricey, it is an unforgettable destination and definitely a bucket list-worthy trip.

The Amazon Rainforest

The Amazon is one of the jewels of Ecuador, and not to be missed on any traveler’s itinerary. Even on just a day-long trek in the jungle you’ll see incredible flora and fauna beyond what you could even imagine – multi-day excursions will bring you face-to-face with the deep Amazon and make for an unforgettable adventure.

There are plenty of options for visitors looking for a fantastic experience at any price point, from visiting Tena and staying in a hostel on the edge of the jungle , to those looking for an immersive experience at one of Ecuador’s most luxurious jungle lodges in Yasuní or Cuyabeno .

Read More About Amazon Travel

• Guide to the Amazon Jungle in Ecuador ( + BEST Jungle Tours)
• Ultimate Guide to Tena, Ecuador – Gateway to the Amazon

One of Ecuador’s most active volcanos, Cotopaxi is a breathtaking site to behold. If you time your visit for the dry season, in the summer months from May- September, you’ll have the best chance of seeing this perfect snow-capped cone peaking from behind the clouds.

Guided tours offering the opportunity to summit this peak, a true feat – not for the weary or those without at least a week to adjust to Ecuador’s altitude first.

For those looking for a more relaxed getaway, hiking trails around the volcano and to the glacier line, as well as horseback riding and biking.

Cotopaxi National Park is also home to one of the best placed I stayed while in Ecuador – the Secret Garden . This is a special place to stay (and very budget-friendly), so make sure you add it to your itinerary.

• How to Visit Cotopaxi National Park
• Best Day Trips from Quito, Ecuador

After traveling throughout the entire country, Mindo is the place I dream of returning to the most. Located halfway between the high Andes mountains and the Pacific coast, Mindo is small town located in the cloud forest, making it a dream destination for birdwatchers and adventure sports fans, and an ideal jungle escape just a two hours from Quito.

This chilled-out town is small but has so much to do, including tubing on the river (RECOMMENDED!) canyoning, trekking to countless waterfalls in the cloud forest, and trying your hand at making fresh chocolate at a local, small-batch shop.

Book a hotel or hostel with hammocks overlooking the jungle and get ready to disconnect and relax.

• Best Things to Do in Mindo
• Ultimate Guide to Mindo, Ecuador

The Quilotoa Crater Lake is one of the true natural wonders of Ecuador, but its remote location means it doesn’t get as much attention as it rightfully deserves – add this to your list if you’re visiting Ecuador, you won’t want to miss it!

When the volcano here exploded hundred of years ago, the collapse of its top formed a massive, perfectly-blue crater lake. When you arrive at the rim of the crater, your jaw will drop at the immense beauty of the crater and steep cliffs rimming it.

The crater is quite remote – about a two hour drive from Latacunga or four hours from Quito – but what you’ll find when you get here is worth the time.

There are several options for hiking routes in the area, including the full Quilotoa Loop – a 3-day or 4-day trek to several indigenous towns starting or ending at the crater lake. This trek is one of South America’s best, and Ecuador’s most popular.

Best Things To Do in Ecuador

Climb a mountain – or, volcano.

Situated in the Andes mountains, and home to over 80 volcanos, Ecuador is a fantastic place for hiking trekking and climbing, and has incredible options for everyone from beginners to experts.

While the country’s most famous summit is Cotopaxi , there are plenty of easier mountains to summit or hike – check out Pasochoa about an hour south of Quito, or Rucu Pichincha towering over Quito.

This moderate but strenuous hike starts from the top of the TeleferiQo cable car.

While not a mountain hike, Cajas National Park outside of Cuenca offers an incredible, almost martian landscape with a variety of beautiful hiking trails.

Take A Rainforest Tour

Whether you choose to visit the cloud forest, located between the mountains and the coastline, or the Amazon Rainforest in the far east, experiencing Ecuador’s incredible forests and unrivaled biodiversity is an experience you don’t want to miss.

An easy starting point for visiting the cloud forest is Mindo , while Tena is an easy option for visiting the Amazon – from here, you can arrange tours and find accommodations at all price points.

• The Best Amazon Jungle Tours in Ecuador
• A Guide to Mindo: Ecuador’s Cloud Forest Paradise

For more in-depth, multi-day and exclusive visits and tours, that a look at the Bellavista Cloud Forest Lodge outside of Mindo or the ultra-luxurious Mashpi Lodge , and the Cuyabeno River Lodge in the heart of the Amazon.

Visiting the cloud forest will likely be less expensive than a visit to a lodge deep in the Amazon, but if you’re looking for wildlife, a trip to the Amazon can’t be beat.

Visit Indigenous Markets

In Ecuador’s central Andean region, visiting the indigenous markets filled with incredible treasures like handwoven textiles with traditional patterns and much more is an unforgettable experience.

The stand-out place to visit is Otavalo , just two hours north of Quito, and the largest market of its kind in all of South America. While portions of the market remain open throughout the week, on Saturdays it extends outward from the central square and weaves through side streets, making for a day of exploring.

Complete a trip to Otavalo by visiting a nearby volcanic crater lake, Cuicocha. The rim hike, which takes about four or five hours , is a fantastic one but there are easier vistas for quick visits as well.

Adventure Sports in Baños

The small town of Baños is a favorite destination in Ecuador for its adventure sports and activities. Nestled just underneath the active Tungurahua volcano, Baños boasts incredible opportunities for white water rafting, canyoning, bungee jumping, hiking and mountain biking routes among waterfalls, and much more.

Excursions with local tour companies are relatively inexpensive and there are endless options. The scenery here is magical and the small, walkable town has plenty to do for travelers, including fantastic restaurants and accommodation options.

Don’t skip out on the thermal baths that give the town its name.

Read More: Ultimate Travel Guide to Baños, Ecuador

Go to The Beach

Often overshadowed by the Galapagos and breathtaking views of the mountains in the center of the country, Ecuador boasts some unforgettable beaches worth exploring up and down the coast.

While resort towns like Salinas and backpacker party beach Montañita get a lot of attention, the beaches in smaller towns in the Manabí and Esmeraldas provinces are the true gems. We love Canoa , a perfect small town with a massive, protected beachfront and known as being a great place to learn to surf.

One of the best beaches in the country is Playa de los Frailes , located within Machalilla National Park (one of the best tourist attractions in Ecuador for travelers), meaning it stays pristine. Nearby Puerto Lopez has a stand-out beach as well, and the small fishing town is the perfect place to unwind.

Read More: Canoa, Ecuador: Ultimate Traveler’s Guide

What to Pack for Ecuador

Ecuador can be a tough place to pack for – especially given the frequent weather changes you’re likely to experience throughout the year.

We created an ultimate packing list for Ecuador – so make sure to click through to this list to see all of our recommendations for packing (for men and women), plus important travel essentials!

Ecuador Packing Essentials

• SteriPen – you shouldn’t plan on drinking tap water in Ecuador, so the SteriPen is a must – use it to purify water from any source almost instantly so you won’t get sick!
• Water Bottle (with water filter!)
• Don’t forget a warm jacket for evenings in the mountains – Quito can get quite cold at night!
• A rain jacket is a MUST
• S-Biner locks for backpacks and purses while out and about
• Luggage locks
• L.L. Bean Duck Boots for the rainy season
• Chacos for waterfall hikes
• Sandals like Birkenstocks and waterproof slides for hostels or swimming
• Go Toobs are the BEST for bringing toiletries.
• Make a mini first-aid kit with a few bandaids, aspirin, triple antibiotic, and alka seltzer just in case!
• Reef-safe sunscreen – you’re closer to the Equator here, and a lot of the country is at high elevation.
• A travel plug adapter and converter : Ecuador uses 110v electricity and U.S.-style outlets, so if your electronics are not from the U.S. you’ll need a plug adapter.
• A spare memory card for your camera.
• NordVPN or another Virtual Private Network service. Not a physical product, but something you shouldn’t travel without! Check out our guide to using a VPN for international travel for more on why this is crucial for travel.

Carley Rojas Avila

Carley Rojas Avila is a bilingual New York-based travel writer, editor, content marketer, and the founder of the digital travel publications Explorers Away and Home to Havana. Carley is an expert on all things Latin America, the Caribbean, and Cuba, having lived and worked in four different countries in the region. Her writing has appeared on the Associated Press wires and in Travel + Leisure, Yahoo, MSN, Euronews, The Weather Channel, and more. When she's not writing about her travels, find her front row at a Bad Bunny concert, befriending street cats, and taste-testing every pizza in Havana.

The Ultimate Ecuador Itinerary 2023

09/27/2023 by Guest Blogger Leave a Comment

This is a guest post by Alyssa.

There is something extra special about visiting Ecuador. Maybe it’s because it is still somewhat off the beaten path, meaning there are far fewer crowds than more popular travel destinations; or perhaps it’s because Ecuador is the country of four worlds: coast, jungle, highlands, and islands; or maybe it’s the llamas (it’s definitely the llamas). And that’s not to mention the ancient ruins, magical hot springs, and rich culture.

Budget-friendly Ecuador features activities for all interests. History buffs will love its many ancient ruins. Adventure enthusiasts will be in paradise among the Andes Mountains. And who doesn’t love taking a dip in a natural hot spring at the end of a long day?

Is it obvious I am absolutely enthralled by this country? While Ecuador is often not the first choice for women planning a solo trip, I cannot begin to describe what an underrated, beautiful country I think it is.

Table of Contents

Ecuador Planning Details

Location: Ecuador is located between Colombia and Peru in South America. Its international airport is in the capital city of Quito.

Altitude : Ecuador is in the middle of the Andes Mountains. This makes for absolutely incredible views, but also means you must take altitude into consideration. The higher-altitude places in Ecuador are Quito and Cuenca. This means experiencing altitude sickness is more likely there, so I recommend taking advance precautions, such as packing altitude sickness medication or other remedies that work for you. Altitude should not get in the way of enjoying your Ecuador trip.

Weather : Did you know that Ecuador is the Spanish word for “equator”? This is because the line crosses directly through Quito, Ecuador! Aside from a new fun fact, this is also the reason Ecuador is known for very mild temperatures year-round. Not many places have the advantage of being a temperate travel destination no matter the season! This makes creating an Ecuador packing list easy, and ensures you won’t need to take many different outfits, no matter the region. 

Cuenca: 3 Days

After arriving at Quito’s international airport, catch one more flight down to Cuenca. There are no direct international flights into Cuenca, so plan accordingly. I recommend spending at least three full days in Cuenca to enjoy its charm and take a day trip.

Cuenca is known as one of the safest spots in Ecuador. Located in the southern highlands, its geographic features are unmatchable. Local day trips, like Cajas National Park, provide lush greenery amid alpine lakes, making for an otherworldly experience. Weather in the national park can be unpredictable, though, so it’s important to plan for a variety of conditions and to pack layers, as it can get pretty chilly no matter the time of year. Isolated rainstorms are common.

Other popular day trips from Cuenca include Ingapirca ruins or the towns of Chordeleg and Sig Sig. 

I recommend traveling by local bus for day trips from Cuenca. It is a fraction of the cost of tours, and it feels very safe. However, public transportation also means many stops to pick up passengers in several places along your journey, so this might not be the choice for you if you are tight on time.

When exploring the Cuenca itself, you can’t miss Pumapungo Museum (it’s free and houses ancient ruins) and the San Francisco Plaza, which is surrounded by historic architecture and churches, and is home to the second biggest flower market in the world (runner-up to Amsterdam!).

The best viewpoints overlooking Cuenca are Mirador Turi and Mega Parque Ictocruz.

In the evening, relax at one of Cuenca’s two thermal hot springs: Piedra de Agua or Novaqua. Piedra de Agua is bigger and offers more underground caves but comes with a starting price of $35 (not including the caves).  Novaqua has more affordable package options, and is an adult-only spa. Purchase tickets for either hot spring at the front desk of the spa upon arrival.

Tip : If you are short on time, skip the Ingapirca ruins and visit the ones at Pumapungo Museum. It is open 8:00am-5:00pm Tuesday-Friday, and 10:00am-4:00pm Saturday and Sunday; it is closed on Mondays.

Stay: The Selina Hostel in Cuenca is more of a boutique hotel. Features include a rooftop restaurant and yoga studio.

Baños: 3 Days

Catch a bus six hours north from Cuenca’s Terminal Terrestre into Ecuador’s adventure capital, Baños. I recommend purchasing tickets at the bus station upon arrival.

The town features world-class white-water rafting, canyoning, and paragliding. All of these activities are offered at extremely affordable prices, smack in the middle of the Andes Mountains. What’s not to love about that?!

Activities can be booked through your hostel or at one of the various tour companies downtown. I recommend spending three days in Baños in order to experience your preferred adventure activities and make time for relaxation in between all of the adrenaline. Two full days can work if you are tight on time.

Baños is dynamic because it caters to a variety of interests. Yes, it is the adventure capital of the country for a reason. However, it also offers breathtaking accessible viewpoints (without a 12-mile hike), famous hot springs, and several spas. It is the ultimate balance between adrenaline and relaxation at an affordable price. 

The two budget bathhouses in Baños are Termas de La Virgen and El Salado. These hot springs are favorites among locals, so plan to have an authentic experience. Lunca Volcán is known as the luxury hot spring. It is located high in the mountains with beautiful views but comes at a starting cost of $72. This includes lunch or dinner, three hours of hot spring access, and one spa treatment. To purchase tickets, visit the website .

One of the most famous things to do in Baños is taking a ride on the Swing at the End of the World. Come on, the name is already epic! This is one of my favorite things I did my entire time in Ecuador. Some visitors claim photos make it look better than it is, but I think it’s amazing. 

The easiest way to get here is taking a Chiva bus from Baños city center to Casa de Árbol. It costs $1 USD to get into the park, and the Chiva bus waits about one hour before returning to town. 

Tip: Arepas 2 Go was my favorite restaurant in the entire town. Its $5 Venezuelan arepas are super filling and flavorful. I loved the vegetarian and vegan options.

Stay : Princesa Maria is one of the top-rated budget options in town, and Luna Volcán is one of the top-rated luxury stays.

Amazon Rain Forest: 1 Day

Take a 3 hour direct bus from Terminal Terrestre in Baños to Tena.  Purchase your tickets directly at the bus station in Baños.  The station is very small and easy to navigate.  Growing up, I learned about the Amazon Rainforest as a mystical, unknown gem of the world.  Something for dreamers.  It is amazing just how accessible a visit can be!  

I recommend making Tena your base because it is considered Ecuador’s gateway into the Amazon.

The Amazon is a HUGE part of the country’s ecosystem, covering nearly 50 percent of its land.  There are several affordable day tours from Quito or Baños to the Amazon Rainforest.  Most Amazon tours include water activities such as rafting or swimming in waterfalls!  The tours are typically action-packed covering a full 12 hour day.  

You can also visit the Amazon Rainforest in Peru , Colombia, Brazil, and more.  The Amazon is on my list for my return trip to South America!  

Tip : If you are tight on timing, you can also take a day trip into the Amazon Rainforest from Baños or Quito.  

Stay : Rema Kayak Lodge in Tena provides good value for the money. 

End your trip back in Quito, Ecuador’s capital. Most travelers make it a quick layover en route to the Galápagos Islands or other famous destinations, like Machu Picchu in Peru or Patagonia in Argentina . But Quito is so much more than that. I recommend spending no less than two days in Quito.  If you have the extra time, I recommend allotting two additional days for day trips.

It was the city that surprised me most. I had received so many warnings from travelers and locals that I arrived a bit on edge. I very quickly got my bearings and fell in love with its authenticity.

READ NEXT: Is South America Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

My favorite thing to do in Quito, while may be it cheesy, was taking a tour to the center of the world. Let’s circle back to our Ecuador history lesson. Ecuador is the Spanish word for “equator,” which runs directly through the country. Call me a science geek, but I loved completing science experiments on the equator line, like balancing an egg upright. 

I am also still enthralled about standing in two hemispheres at once. And jumping across hemispheres — yup, I highly recommend capturing that photo!

Ecuador’s capital is also known for authentic handicraft markets featuring goods created by artisans in nearby indigenous villages . The most convenient one to visit is La Mariscal Artisan Market in the Mariscal neighborhood, a 10-minute drive from Quito’s historic center. La Mariscal has got it all: we’re talking brightly colored dresses, jackets, purses, dolls, jewelry, shoes — you name it, they got it. (Full disclosure: I shopped here every day. Oops!)

For a full day of shopping, venture on a day trip to Otavalo Market, the largest of its kind in South America.

The best views in Quito are from El Panecillo and El Telefónico (cable car). It is not safe to walk the city stairs to El Panecillo, so be sure to take a bus or Uber here.

Quito is also a great launching point for some of the best adventure day trips in the country, like Cotopaxi Volcano National Park, Quilotoa Volcano, and Mindo Cloud Forest.

Tip: My favorite Ecuadorian meal on my entire trip was at Miskay in La Mariscal, where they are able to make almost any menu item with plant-based protein (I’m looking at you, vegetarians!).

Stay: I suggest Casa San Marcos in Quito’s historic center.

Ecuador Safety Tips

Ecuador isn’t famous for having the world’s safest reputation. If you follow news stories across media outlets, you have probably heard a lot about crime and violence. Safety should be taken very seriously on any trip, but this is simply not a reason to avoid traveling to Ecuador.

Quito is the only place in Ecuador where I was given several well-intentioned warnings by fellow travelers and locals. While it is not inherently dangerous, these warnings are not without reason. Quito has many impoverished neighborhoods. Lack of money historically relates to higher crime rates anywhere in the world, because people are trying to provide food for their families. 

In any case, it is important to research prior to any solo trip in order to be aware of necessary general precautions in order to protect yourself.

My top solo female safety tips for Ecuador are:

• Share your itinerary : It gives you peace of mind to know that someone knows where you are in case of an unexpected emergency. In fact, I recommend this tip to all solo female travelers no matter the destination.
• Stay indoors after dark in Quito : While it might be enticing to be out and about because the sun sets early, around 6:30pm, the top tip I received from locals and tourists was to stay indoors after dark, unless you are in a touristy area with several people.
• Do not explore isolated streets : Reported crime is more likely to happen in uncrowded areas, and where there are no other people. Of course you should still be careful in more crowded areas, as pickpocketing is common. Follow this tip day or night.
• Do not walk to El Panecillo : …or stay in a hostel near a set of city stairs. El Panecillo features one of the best viewpoints in Quito. However enticing climbing one of the many sets of stairs to the top may be, take a car or bus instead. There are several reported instances of violent crime and robbery against tourists and locals through the neighborhoods that line the stairs. (Once at the top, it is safe.)

Ecuador is ultimately a safe destination for female travelers if you stick to the touristed route and follow general safety precautions. The most common crime is petty theft, like pickpocketing. Always follow your intuition and exit any situation that feels sketchy or unsafe.

I recommend visiting Ecuador alone after you feel comfortable with solo travel . Traveling solo as a woman for the first time can be scary . Much of this fear is instilled by well-intentioned loved ones and by alarming warnings from media sources.

Ecuador should be considered more than a layover destination in South America. From its bustling cultural capital of Quito to its adventure capital of Baños, to its charming southern highland town of Cuenca, your itinerary is sure to be unforgettable.

About the author: Alyssa is a full-time teacher who travels the world on a budget. She is on a mission to teach fellow educators how to balance travel on a school schedule through maximizing holiday breaks and long weekends. She has traveled to 30 countries and documents her journeys on her blog,  An Apple a Plane .

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Sitting on the equator between Colombia and Peru , Ecuador may be the smallest Andean nation but it’s packed with the most startling contrasts of scenery. With its astounding biodiversity, impressive historical legacy, stunning colonial architecture, bustling highland markets and diverse mix of people – blacks, whites, indigenous and mestizo – travel to Ecuador and you’ll see why this friendly and exotic destination is often regarded as a microcosm of South America.

Where to go in Ecuador and the Galápagos

Flora and fauna, living in ecuador, tailor-made travel itineraries for ecuador, created by local experts.

21 days  / from 11900 USD

Ecuador's Best in 3 Weeks

A journey to the heart of Ecuador: discover the Andean highlands, go on a deep dive in the Amazon jungle, explore the colonial cities on the Pacific Coast and end your trip with the incredibly diverse Galapagos Islands. This trip packs all into one, the adventure of a lifetime!

10 days  / from 5919 USD

Unique Lodges of Ecuador

Prepare yourself for the epitome of adventure and prestige with not one but two Unique Lodges in Ecuador into the lush and captivating nearby cloud forest to discover Mashpi Lodge. After that, prepare yourself for the wonders at your doorstep at the Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel.

14 days  / from 6565 USD

Best of Peru & Galapagos Islands

Split your South America trip into two fascinating countries: Peru with Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley, as well as ocean-facing capital Lima. Afterwards, proceed to the Galapagos Islands. You will stay on 3 different islands and explore many more.

From the icy pinnacles of Chimborazo, to the tropical forests of vast reserves like Parque Nacional Yasuní and the palm-fringed beaches of the Pacific coast, Ecuador hums with life - all within easy reach of Quito, its jewel of a capital.

• Ecuador has the most biodiversity, per square kilometre, of any country in the world
• In 2015, at the age of 26, Vanessa Arauz, coach of Ecuador’s women’s football team, became the world’s youngest national football coach at a FIFA World Cup – women’s or men’s.
• When 156 Jewish refugees fled Germany in 1939, several South American countries refused them entry, but Ecuador took them in.
• 93% of Ecuadorians speak Spanish, but there are more than 20 other dialects spoken across the country.
• The Ecuadorian national initiative known as ‘Buen Vivir’ aims to protect 32% of the nation’s land, to ensure the longevity of its biodiversity.

Thanks to its compact size, travelling around Ecuador is easy and relatively fast, with few places more than a day’s bus ride from the capital. Unlike the attractions found in larger South American countries such as Brazil, Argentina and Chile, Ecuador’s contrasting regions and highlights are within easy reach of each other, allowing for a more flexible approach to route-planning.

The right weather will brighten up your trip even more. Make your trip comfortable with our guide to the best time to visit Ecuador .

Best places to visit in Ecuador and the Galápagos

The majority of visitors fly in to Quito, whose glorious colonial centre – a maze of narrow streets and exquisite monasteries and churches – demands at least a couple of days to explore. Its modern new town is packed with hotels, restaurants and services that make it a convenient base for excursions.

Otavalo and the northern sierra

Striking north from Quito, the northern sierra’s green valleys are dappled with glistening lakes and crested by volcanic peaks, and the area is famed for its artesanías, centres of native craftwork, leather goods and woodcarving, all within a short bus ride of each other. Of these, Otavalo is undoubtedly one of the best places to go in Ecuador, thanks to its enormous Saturday market – one of the continent’s most renowned – and flourishing weaving industry. The region also offers plenty of scope for walkers and horseriding enthusiasts, who should consider splashing out on a stay in any of several beautifully converted haciendas.

The central sierra

South of Quito, the central sierra is home to the most spectacular of the country’s volcanoes, including the snowcapped cone of Cotopaxi, and Chimborazo, Ecuador’s highest peak at 6268m. Also in this rural region are some of the more exciting markets in the sierra, such as those of the villages of Saquisilí and Zumbahua, and the small town of Guamote. Rewarding off-the-beaten-track destinations include the dazzling crater lake of Laguna Quilotoa, with its remote páramo setting, while more established attractions include the busy little spa town of Baños, framed by soaring green peaks, and the train ride down the Nariz del Diablo (“the Devil’s Nose”) from Riobamba, the most fetching of the central sierra’s cities.

Cuenca and the southern sierra

In the southern sierra lies the captivating colonial city of Cuenca, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a convenient base for visiting Ingapirca – the country’s only major Inca ruins – and Parque Nacional Cajas, a starkly beautiful wilderness. Further south, the charming city of Loja is a jumping-off point for visits to the Parque Nacional Podocarpus, whose humid lower reaches are particularly sumptuous, and the easy-going mountain village of Vilcabamba, a popular gringo hangout.

The Oriente

The Oriente embodies one of Ecuador’s greatest wildernesses, a thick carpet of tropical rainforest unfurling for almost 300km, which was home only to isolated indigenous groups and the odd Christian mission until the discovery of oil here in the late 1960s. Since then, the region’s infrastructure has developed apace, allowing easier access to the Amazonian jungle than any other Andean country. Two of the country’s largest wild areas – the Reserva Faunística Cuyabenoand the Parque Nacional Yasuní– and a number of private reserves protect substantial forest tracts that have so far survived the incursions of the oil industry and colonists. Jungle lodges, many of them a canoe ride down the Río Napo, make for the most comfortable way of experiencing the thrill of this diverse and exciting habitat, but you can’t do better than staying with an indigenous community for a glimpse into the lives of the jungle’s resident peoples; some of the more isolated destinations can be reached only by light aircraft.

The northern lowlands and coast

A few hours’ drive northwest of Quito on the way to the coast, a number of private reserves showcase the country’s beautiful cloudforests – otherworldly gardens of gnarled and tangled vegetation, wrapped in mosses and vines, and drenched daily in mist – and provide accommodation and guides for exploring or birdwatching, with some of the best sites on the western slopes of the Andes. The village of Mindo, enveloped in richly forested hills brimming with endemic species, is the birding capital of the country. Continuing westwards, Ecuador’s varied coastline begins at the Colombian border in a profusion of mangrove swamps, protected by the Reserva Ecológica Manglares Cayapas-Mataje and best visited by canoe from San Lorenzo, a down-at-heel town rich in Afro-Ecuadorian culture. The surrounding north coast is best known, however, for its beaches and the boisterous resort at Atacames is one of the most popular, though there are quieter places to enjoy the warm Pacific waters, including Súa, Same, Muisne and Canoa. Among the chief attractions of the southern coast is Parque Nacional Machalilla, with its dry and humid forests, superb beaches and impressive birdlife on its offshore island, Isla de la Plata.

Guayaquil and the southern coast

Further down the coast, Montañita is rapidly gaining popularity with surfers and backpackers, while Salinas is perhaps the country’s most prestigious seaside resort. Guayaquil, the region’s main port and the largest city in Ecuador, is a frenetic and humid spot that’s emerging as a tourist destination, while quieter attractions include the mangrove forests of the Reserva-Ecológica Manglares Churute, the warm, picturesque hill village of Zaruma and the petrified forest of Puyango.

The Galápagos Islands

Finally, the Galápagos Islands are for many visitors the initial lure to the country, and arguably the most compelling nature spot in the world. Ever since Darwin dropped anchor at these forbidding volcanic islands and unlocked the enigma of their motley creatures, they have enchanted all who come. Beyond gawping at fearless land animals, there are great opportunities to get closer to the archipelago’s abundant marine life: swimming with turtles and sharks, peering through a glass-bottomed boat and looking out for dolphins and whales.

Discover more places in Ecuador

• The Oriente Travel Guide
• The southern sierra Travel Guide
• The Galápagos Islands Travel Guide
• Quito and around Travel Guide
• Ecuador is around 285,000 square kilometres in area - roughly equivalent to the US state of Nevada, or the United Kingdom combined with Belgium.
• Spanish is the official language of Ecuador, but there are more than twenty other native tongues, including several dialects of Kichwa, the language of the Inca Empire.
• The majority of Ecuador’s 14.5 million people are mestizos (mixed spanish and indigenous blood), a quarter are indigenous people from more than a dozen native groups, seven percent are white, mainly of Spanish extraction, and three percent are black.
• The Spanish first established the boundaries of what roughly now corresponds to Ecuador in 1563. It became an independent republic in 1830, when it was officially named after the equator, which passes through it. Voting is compulsory for any literate person aged between 18 and 65, and optional for other eligible citizens.
• Ecuador’s main exports are petroleum products, bananas, coffee, cacao, cut flowers and shrimp. Despite its large oil reserves and rich farmland, the economy is often severely affected by fluctuations in world commodity prices and around 38 percent of its people live below the poverty line.

Unmatched by any country of its size, Ecuador’s considerable biodiversity includes more than 25,000 plant species, or ten percent of the world total, compared to around 17,000 for all of North America. Its 1600 types of birds are about twice as many as all of Europe, and half the total for all South America. The country also holds more species of mammals and amphibians per square metre than any other country on Earth.

This extraordinary concentration of wildlife is largely due to Ecuador’s unique geography, its position on the equator and the geologically recent appearance of Andean cordilleras, which divide the coastal and Amazonian basins and provide an array of habitats and isolated areas for the evolution of new species. The country’s highly varied terrain encompasses Andean mountains, parched semi-desert scrub, chilly high-altitude grasslands, subtropical cloudforests, tropical rainforests, dry forests, mangrove swamps, warm Pacific beaches and the unique environment of the Galápagos Islands.

There’s plenty of scope for spending fruitful time in Ecuador other than travelling. A huge number of possibilities exist for prospective volunteers, with a growing number of foundations and NGOs seeking outside help to keep running. Ecuador is also one of the top choices on the continent for learning Spanish. It’s easy to enrol, lessons are good value and the language spoken in the sierra is clear and crisp.

Volunteering

Many opportunities exist for volunteers , though most require you to pay your own way for food and accommodation and to stay for at least a month, with a donation of around $250–450 going towards food and lodging. Reasonable Spanish skills will usually be needed for any kind of volunteer work with communities, and a background in science for research work.

Someone without these skills should still be able to find places with no trouble, especially in areas of conservation work demanding a degree of hard toil, such as reforestation or trail clearing in a reserve. In fact, short-term, unskilled volunteering has evolved into a kind of tourism in its own right in Ecuador, so-called “ voluntourism ”. You can arrange to volunteer either from home – probably better for more formal, long-term posts – or on arrival in Ecuador, which is simpler and more convenient. The SAE in Quito keeps files on dozens of organizations looking for volunteers. We’ve listed below a few popular ones based in Ecuador, plus useful organizations abroad. If the main purpose of your trip is volunteering, you will need to have the appropriate visas before you go; those planning to work with children should allow enough time for Ecuadorian authorities to carry out checks before travel.

Language schools

One-to-one Spanish lessons arranged in Ecuador cost around $5 an hour, offering tremendous value for money to prospective learners. Most language schools are based in Quito, with a few others in Cuenca and the main tourist centres. You’ll normally have lessons for the morning or afternoon (or both if you have the stamina), and there are often social activities arranged in the evenings and at weekends. To immerse yourself totally in the language, homestays arranged through language schools are a good idea, sometimes costing as little as $10 a day for accommodation and meals. You can arrange Spanish courses in Ecuador from home, but it’s unlikely to be as cheap as doing it when you get there. For arranging lessons and stays in advance, try Amerispan ( w www.amerispan.com) or CESA Languages Abroad ( w www.cesalanguages.com).

More adventurous linguists could also have a stab at learning an indigenous language, such as Quichua , which a few schools offer on the side. The reaction you’ll get from native speakers, even with some elementary knowledge, is well worth the effort.

Unless you have something arranged in advance with an international company or organization, you’re unlikely to find much paid work in Ecuador. Being an English speaker, the only type of job you can expect to get with relative ease is as an English-language teacher , especially in Quito or Guayaquil. It’s usually stipulated that English should be your native tongue for these posts, but completely fluent non-native speakers shouldn’t have much difficulty. Don’t expect to be paid very much, unless you have a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) or similar qualification, which will give you greater bargaining power. You’ll have to have a work visa, which can be expensive to get – enough to put most people off in the first place. If you have any training in ecology, biology, ornithology and the like, you could try to hunt around the jungle lodge operators asking if they need a guide . Fluent English speakers with such qualifications are often in demand.

Ecuador is one of the most volcanically active areas on the South American continent, and the highlands are studded with snow-crested cones looming into the sky either side of a broad central valley, which the explorer Alexander von Humboldt grandly called the “avenue of the volcanoes”. Though many of the country’s 55 volcanic peaks are extinct, eight remain active, while another nine have erupted in the last few thousand years and are classified as “potentially active”. Anyone who stays for a few months is likely to feel a small tremor or see puffs of volcanic ash curling into the air from a summit on the horizon. Every now and then volcanoes near population centres, such as Guagua Pichincha above Quito or Tungurahua by Baños, rumble into life triggering civil safety precautions. Nevertheless, Ecuador’s volcanoes – which include the furthest point from the centre of the Earth (Chimborazo), the highest point on the equator (Cayambe), and one of the highest active peaks in the world (Cotopaxi) – are spectacular fixtures, attracting mountaineers from across the globe and awe in all who see them.

Travel advice for Ecuador

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Ecuador

• Culture and Etiquette in Ecuador
• Eating and drinking in Ecuador
• How to get to Ecuador
• Getting around Ecuador: Transportation Tips
• Travel Health Ecuador
• National Parks in Ecuador
• Sports and Outdoor activities in Ecuador
• Tips and travel advice for Ecuador
• Best time to visit Ecuador

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Nature reserved some of her best for Ecuador, with its mountain highlands and haciendas, not to mention its stunning Galapagos Islands . Start an Ecuador trip in  Quito , the nation’s capital, where you can tour its many cultural, religious and historic sites. Or go to coastal Guayaquil to experience local marine wildlife on a boat ride or snorkeling trip.

• Ecuador Travel Guide

156 Trips in Ecuador with 198 Reviews

• Starts San Cristobal Island, Ecuador
• Ends Isla Santa Cruz, Ecuador

Galapagos Experience

• Best price guaranteed
• No booking fees
• Tour Type Small Group Tour
• Activities Adventure & Marine wildlife Adventure , Marine wildlife & Trekking and Hiking 'data-more-tripid='3266'>+1 more
• Accommodation Hotel
• Transport Boat, Bus & Private Vehicle
• Age Range 15-99 yrs
• Operated in English
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,500
• Special Deal (16%): - US$ 245
• Total Price from: US$ 1,255
• Jun 07 Only 1 seat left
• Jun 21 10+ seats left
• View More Jan 1, 2019 Jan 2, 2019 Jan 3, 2019

• Starts Quito, Ecuador
• Ends Quito, Ecuador

Highlands of Ecuador

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Natural landmarks sightseeing
• Accommodation Hotel & Lodge
• Transport Flight, Bus & Private Vehicle
• Age Range 12-95 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,249
• Special Deal (20%): - US$ 250
• Total Price from: US$ 999

Ecuador: Amazon, Hot Springs & Volcanoes

• Activities Wildlife & Cultural, religious and historic sites Wildlife , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Explorer & Safari 'data-more-tripid='5161'>+2 more
• Accommodation Lodge, Hotel & Resort
• Transport Private Vehicle & Bus
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,349
• Special Deal (25%): - US$ 588
• Total Price from: US$ 1,761

Inland & Amazon

• Activities Rainforest and jungle visits & Cultural, religious and historic sites
• Accommodation Hotel, Lodge & Hut
• Transport Bus, Flight, 4WD Jeep & Private Vehicle
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,299
• Special Deal (20%): - US$ 460
• Total Price from: US$ 1,839

Local Living Ecuador—Amazon Jungle

• Activities Wildlife & Kayaking and canoeing Wildlife , Kayaking and canoeing , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Explorer & Safari 'data-more-tripid='5176'>+3 more
• Transport Bus & Private Vehicle
• Brochure Price: US$ 949
• Special Deal (30%): - US$ 285
• Total Price from: US$ 664

• Ends Guayaquil, Ecuador

Andes to Amazon

• Transport Boat
• Age Range 16-99 yrs
• Sep 06 Only 3 seats left
• Sep 27 Only 8 seats left

• Starts Hostería PapaGayo Cotopaxi, Ecuador
• Ends Hostería PapaGayo Cotopaxi, Ecuador

Chimborazo Prince Challenge

• Trip customizable
• Tour Type Private Tour
• Activities Mountains & Climbing
• Accommodation Guest House & Hotel
• Age Range 12-75 yrs
• Operated in English, Spanish

Best of Galapagos

• Activities Wildlife & Trekking and Hiking Wildlife , Trekking and Hiking , Walking tours & Safari 'data-more-tripid='3284'>+2 more
• Transport Boat, Bus, Private Vehicle, Flight & Taxi
• Brochure Price: US$ 3,990
• Special Deal (12%): - US$ 468
• Total Price from: US$ 3,522
• May 25 Only 3 seats left
• Jun 01 Only 6 seats left

Galapagos Island Hopping

• Activities Wildlife & Walking tours Wildlife , Walking tours , Trekking and Hiking & Safari 'data-more-tripid='3285'>+2 more
• Transport Boat, Bus, Private Vehicle, Ferry & Taxi
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,625
• Special Deal (10%): - US$ 264
• Total Price from: US$ 2,361
• May 26 Only 3 seats left
• Jun 02 Only 6 seats left

Ecuador: From the Andes to the Pacific Ocean

• Activities City sightseeing & Walking tours City sightseeing , Walking tours , Local boat rides , Cultural, religious and historic sites & Train tours 'data-more-tripid='23616'>+3 more
• Accommodation Hotel & Hut
• Transport Boat, Train, Private Vehicle & Bus
• Age Range 1-80 yrs

Ecuador Quest

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Explorer
• Accommodation Hotel, Hut & Home-stay
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,099
• Special Deal (20%): - US$ 220
• Total Price from: US$ 879

Galápagos Land & Sea — Central & South Islands aboard the Yolita

• Activities Sailing, yachting and motor boating & Wildlife Sailing, yachting and motor boating , Wildlife , Explorer & Safari 'data-more-tripid='5212'>+2 more
• Accommodation Hotel & Villa
• Transport Flight, Bus, Yacht & Private Vehicle
• Brochure Price: US$ 3,949
• Special Deal (30%): - US$ 1,185
• Total Price from: US$ 2,764

Ecuador: Amazon Jungle Short Break

• Activities Getaways and short breaks
• Accommodation Lodge & Hotel
• Transport Flight & Minibus
• Age Range 5-99 yrs
• May 24 10+ seats left
• May 25 10+ seats left

Galapagos Explorer: Central Islands (Grand Queen Beatriz)

• Activities Sailing, yachting and motor boating & Wildlife Sailing, yachting and motor boating , Wildlife , Cruise & Safari 'data-more-tripid='12090'>+2 more
• Transport Boat, Bus, Flight, Ferry & Minibus
• Age Range 12-99 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 4,890
• Special Deal (28%): - US$ 1,347
• Total Price from: US$ 3,543
• Jun 11 Only 1 seat left
• Jun 25 Only 2 seats left

Traveling to Ecuador? Chat with a local travel specialist in Ecuador who can help organize your trip.

Ecuador Tour Reviews

• Gideon Ansell

Ecuador - Tour Highlights and Travel Tips

Ecuador feels like a country that was created after years of practice. Nature reserved some of her beautiful best for Ecuador. The mountain highlands and haciendas are famous for their awe-inspiring wonders and each landmass feels so picture-perfect. Staying in cloud-forest lodges or visiting those timeless villages is perhaps the best thing to do when on a tour to Ecuador. And you also have all kinds of options when it comes to coastal explorations.

The exotic Galapagos, majestic Andes, beautiful Amazon rainforests, 17th century churches, Kichwa villages and much more! A trip to Ecuador often leaves you perplexed for you never know what to leave out from your itinerary. After all, with the things Ecuador country has on offer, you could spend months here.

Tour Highlights

• Trace Charles Darwin's footsteps on the Galapagos Islands
• Ride in a basket at the Pailon del Diablo (Devil's Cauldron) in Banos
• Swing off the end of the world at Casa Del Arbol
• Hike to Quilotoa Lagoon
• Worship the sun at Templo del Sol Pintor

Travel Tips

• Many new visitors to Ecuador do not realise that the currency is, in fact, the United States dollar - and it has been since the year 2000!
• The journey from Quito airport into the city of Quito takes approximately two hours by bus. A taxi will get you there in under an hour and is usually a cheaper alternative if travelling in a group of three or more.
• You simply cannot miss Ecuadorian chocolate (and hot chocolate, even in the summer). This must-try food can be found on nearly any street corner.
• Double check the quality marketplace alpaca products before buying. Sweaters and other products may contain some alpaca fur but are often mostly acrylic. If you're not sure, ask the vendor.
• If you're looking for a wild and exciting holiday in Ecuador, head to the coast where you'll find plenty of parties and surfing. If you want a more relaxing holiday, head inland for charming, quiet towns.

Ecuador has seasonal weather so please do check up on the best time to visit Ecuador before planning your tour. And if you’re still hunting for more things to do and places to explore in Ecuador, do check out our Ecuador Travel Guide for more information.

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A capital city high in the Andes, Quito is dramatically situated, squeezed between mountain peaks whose greenery is concealed by the afternoon mist. Modern apartment buildings and modest concrete homes creep partway up the slopes, and busy commercial thoroughfares lined with shops and choked with traffic turn into peaceful neighborhoods on Sundays. Warm and relaxed, traditional Ecuadorian Sierra culture – overflowing market stands, shamanistic healers, fourth-generation hatmakers – mixes with a vibrant and sophisticated culinary and nightlife scene.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús

Capped by green-and-gold domes, La Compañía de Jesús is Quito’s most ornate church and a standout among the baroque splendors of the Old Town. Free guided…

For spectacular views over Quito’s mountainous landscape, hop aboard this sky tram, one of the world's highest aerial lifts, that takes passengers on a 2…

Casa Museo Guayasamín

In the former home of the legendary painter Oswaldo Guayasamín (1919–99), this wonderful museum houses the most complete collection of the artist's work…

Capilla del Hombre

One of the most important works of art in South America, Ecuadorian artist Oswaldo Guayasamín’s Capilla del Hombre stands next to the Casa Museo…

Palacio de Gobierno

The low white building on the northwestern side of Plaza Grande is the seat of the Ecuadorian presidency. Visitors can enter by joining a free guided tour…

Museos Casa de la Cultura Ecuatoriana

Newly reopened following a full-scale makeover, Museos Casa de la Cultura encompasses three museums in a single bright, modern space. The expansive Museo…

Museo Nacional

Located in the circular, glass-plated, landmark building of the Casa de la Cultura is one of the country’s largest collections of Ecuadorian art, with…

Catedral Metropolitana

On Plaza Grande's southwest side stands Quito's cathedral. Although not the most ornate of the Old Town’s churches, it has some fascinating works by…

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