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Ecuador Tours & Trips

The snow-covered Cotopaxi volcano is the highest active volcano in the world, and an overnight climb is one of the many adventures available in Ecuador. Another is a visit to the eerie Cloud Forest of Mindo, and not to be missed is a trip to Galapagos Islands .

250+ Ecuador tour packages with 1,238 reviews

• In-depth Cultural
• Christmas & New Year

Galápagos Adventure: Snorkelling & Sea Lions

Great tour. I fell in love with Galapagos!

• Ocean Cruise

Galápagos Multisport

Fantastic 10 day multisport trip to the Galapagos islands. I don't have a bad word to say about any of it, our guide Jonathan was the best, great group One of my best trips Brad(Canada)

Best of Galapagos

Intrepid seems like a pretty good company. They emphasize a low impact, high quality experience that enables the traveler to experience the local culture and people.

Galapagos Discovery

Beside the magnificence of the place and its residents, our guide, Priscila Sotomayor, was also exceptional. Very knowledgeable, always sharing information and answering all sort of questions while preparing us every day as well for what it would be the next experience. She also provided a very kind and special attention to every single need of the group participants. Visiting Galapagos is a great experience. Tourradar, through Intrepid and its staff made it very pleasant to me.

8 Days Ecuadorian Adventure, Exploring Nature, Culture, and Wonders

Absolutely memorable experience with Responsible Travel Agency! Their attention to detail and personal approach made my trip unforgettable. From customised itineraries like a small hike in Chimborazo to helpful tips along the way, they went above and beyond to ensure every aspect of the journey was comfortable and also will help if some unexpected changes happen during the trip. Thank you Santiago for a great time and friendly approach for arranging this tour!

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

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!

13 Days Exploring Ecuador: Highlands and Rainforest

An alle die noch überlegen: Bucht es! Ich habe mit dieser Reise tolle Erfahrungen gesammelt und es war einzigartig. Schon allein die Vielfalt war überwältigend. Von den Besuchen der tollen historischen Altstädte, über die kahlen Landschaften der Vulkane bis hin zum Regenwald, war bei dieser Tour alles dabei. Außerdem war es immer super organisiert und man fühlt sich immer willkommen und gut aufgehoben. Mein Guide, Santiago, war bei Fragen oder Problemen immer zu erreichen und zudem sehr hilfsbereit und freundlich. Ich würde die Reise jedem ans Herz legen und weiterempfehlen.

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Explore tours with itineraries going through multiple countries, including Ecuador.

Ecuador Multisport Once in a Life Time

I highly recommend this tour with Adventure Journeys, I couldn’t have had a better time. Our guide Paul is just wonderful! He made every day memorable for us. Paul is extremely knowledgeable about his Home country, the history, nature and wildlife. The 8-day trip brought us to the Cotopaxi National Park, we had an exciting bike tour in the cloud forest; the tour went further to the Amazon, where we enjoyed canoying and home stay at a wonderful family (we made our own chocolate !). Then we had lots of fun during a rafting expedition, we relaxed in the hot springs in Papallacta and learned about a sustainable project, developed by AJ. Our last adventure was a trekking tour around the Cuicocha Crater Lake. Not to forget the nice hotels which were selected for us. During the entire tour, our guide Paul was paying so much attention that we feel comfortable, he took sufficient time to answer to our questions, Paul was flexible to adapt to another timetable and made us feel like a family! - All in a super funny, but always professional manner. He made a huge difference to all other tours I had before.

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!!

Ultimate Galapagos Islands Adventure

The guides were terrific, very educational and entertaining. We loved the ability to stay at 4 of the different islands, and have an ocean view from every room! We got to see and do so much! I was never board, snorkeling, biking, watching and learning about the animals and environment, hiking, kayaking, etc…. It was great that the agenda was flexible. Having the agenda changed to enable us to be able to participate in all activities instead of having to pick and choose was fantastic! We were excited to find out we could snorkel the tuneles and hike the volcano. The food was fantastic, they were able to accommodate my gluten allergy every we went. All the local restaurants we very good at accommodating allergies as well as giving us a fantastic variety of local delicious foods. All in all it was an amazing trip that I definitely recommend!

Ecuador: Amazon, Hot Springs & Volcanoes National Geographic Journeys

This was an amazing trip. The tour director was highly knowledgeable and accommodated the needs of every tour group member. The itinerary provided an opportunity to fully explore Ecuador, and its culture.

• Hiking & Trekking

Affordable Galapagos 8 Days Tour

Love the model. I would do it again?

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

Magical Galapagos (5 Days)

Great collection of day tours but just be aware that’s what it is - no tour group as such but everything organised seamlessly and really made the most of all the time there. Would recommend this trip

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!

Galapagos Experience: 5 days

• €134 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

What people love about Ecuador Tours

This was a great experience if you are looking for a little adventure! It is not a luxury, relaxing vacation, but has a good mix of exciting experiences, eating good food, waking up early to travel to new stops, and some time to chill and interact with other travelers.

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.

There are a lot of tours to choose from when you are looking at touring in the Galapagos so you need to choose one that is right for you. Best of Galapagos is exactly what it says. We saw everything!!! 10 days was the perfect amount of time to immerse ourselves into everything the islands have to offer. Just brilliant

Ecuador Destinations

• Galapagos Islands (363)
• Pacific (356)
• Andes Mountains (232)
• Ecuador Andean Highlands (144)
• Avenue of the Volcanoes (125)
• Amazonian Basin (96)
• Cotopaxi National Park (42)
• Cayambe Coca National Park (16)
• Yasuni National Park (12)
• Amazonian Region Ecuador (39)
• Amazon Rainforest (34)

Travel Styles

• Small Group (230)
• Budget (125)
• Luxury (62)
• Singles and Solo (405)
• For Couples (67)
• Young Adults (5)
• Seniors (210)
• Group (477)
• Family (418)
• Fully Guided (374)
• Explorer (307)
• Active (219)
• Partially Guided (209)
• Personalized (172)
• Private (114)
• In-depth Cultural (93)
• Ocean Cruise (74)
• Sailing (62)
• Hiking & Trekking (55)
• Self-Guided (22)
• Bicycle (9)
• Intl. Flights Included (9)
• River Cruise (9)
• 3 Day Tours (37)
• 7 Day Tours (203)
• 10 Day Tours (159)
• 2 Week Tours (48)
• 3 Week Tours (28)
• Spring 2024 (418)
• Summer 2024 (458)
• Fall / Autumn 2024 (431)
• Winter 2024 / 2025 (412)
• Spring 2025 (226)
• Summer 2025 (200)
• Fall / Autumn 2025 (180)
• Winter 2025 / 2026 (178)
• April 2024 (380)
• May 2024 (415)
• June 2024 (440)
• July 2024 (441)
• August 2024 (423)
• September 2024 (404)
• October 2024 (419)
• November 2024 (413)
• December 2024 (405)
• January 2025 (220)
• February 2025 (215)
• March 2025 (219)
• April 2025 (212)
• May 2025 (199)
• June 2025 (196)
• July 2025 (184)
• August 2025 (173)
• September 2025 (167)
• October 2025 (173)
• November 2025 (175)

Ecuador Tours starting in

• Starting in Quito (276)
• Starting in Baltra Island (112)
• Starting in San Cristóbal Island (35)
• Starting in Galapagos Islands (11)
• Starting in Guayaquil (9)
• Starting in Santa Cruz Island (8)
• Ecuador Travel Guide | All You Need to Know

• Quito One Day Trips
• Two-Days Trips
• Multi-Days Trips
• Amazon Jungle Trips
• Galapagos Islands
• Ecuador Highlights
• Reasons to choose Ecuador

Amazon Rainforest

Is the most accessible and safest tropical rain forest in South America, with a lot of welcoming native ethnic groups and exotic wildlife

Andes - Jungle

You will enjoy from tropical destinations with exuberant vegetation and waterfalls, to highlands with indigenous communities, local markets and active snow-capped volcanoes.

Sandy Beach

Ecuador's coast region is a composition of beautiful lush green mangrove forests, a jungle, crystal clear waters, stunning clean sandy beaches and many quaint fishing villages.

The most relevant and important thing about choosing a private tour to Cotopaxi National Park, is the flexibility you will have during your journey.

National Park

They are part of an Ecuadorian province, a national park, and a biological marine reserve.

Cloud Forest

Thousands of tourists visit the area annually to enjoy activities such as rafting, tubing, trekking, mountain biking, canyoning, horseback riding, birdwatching, and herping.

It is located in the Northern Andes of Ecuador. The Otavalo region is a showcase of impressive volcanoes, quaint colonial towns and home of different ethnic groups.

The scenic drive from Quito to Papallacta passes through several towns and small villages before ascending to a peak of over 4.000 meters, from where mountains and glaciers are visible.

The Quilotoa volcano Loop is a remote, bumpy, mountainous road linking several high Andean villages and towns with the city of Latacunga.

World Cultural Heritage site of Humanity

Enjoy Quito’s main attractions: historical buildings, heritage sites, museums, folk ballets, viewpoints, restaurants, nightlife, etc.

Our most popular destinations

Wonderful Ecuador Let us help you find the perfect place. Ideal destinations for you!

Discover Ecuador with Safety

ECUADOR BEST TOURS offers a large and excellent selection of day trips around Quito and multi-days-trips packages all over Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands. Experience the best of this wonderful country with us!

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It´s time to travel to Ecuador, we have many places to visit where do you start? Take a look at our Top 5 Places To Visit.

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Ecuador Tours and Trips 2024/2025

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

155 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
• May 03 Only 6 seats left
• May 17 Only 2 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$ 1,199
• Special Deal (30%): - US$ 360
• Total Price from: US$ 839
• Apr 26 Only 7 seats left
• May 10 10+ seats left

• Starts Cusco, Peru
• Ends Guayaquil, Ecuador

Machu Picchu & Galapagos

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Trekking and Hiking Cultural, religious and historic sites , Trekking and Hiking & Natural landmarks sightseeing 'data-more-tripid='11421'>+1 more
• Accommodation Hotel, Yacht Cabin & Lodge
• Transport Train, Flight, Bus, Boat & Yacht
• Age Range 16-95 yrs
• Oct 01 Only 8 seats left
• Oct 15 Only 8 seats left

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$ 2,199
• Special Deal (25%): - US$ 550
• Total Price from: US$ 1,649
• Apr 19 Only 10 seats left
• Apr 26 Only 3 seats left

Inland & Amazon

• Activities Rainforest and jungle visits & Cultural, religious and historic sites
• Accommodation Hotel, Lodge & Hut
• Transport Bus, Flight, 4WD Jeep & Private Vehicle
• Special Deal (30%): - US$ 660
• Total Price from: US$ 1,539
• Apr 20 Only 6 seats left
• May 04 Only 10 seats left

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
• Apr 20 Only 9 seats left
• May 04 Only 9 seats left

Andes to Amazon

• Transport Boat
• Sep 06 Only 5 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$ 4,230
• Special Deal (12%): - US$ 504
• Total Price from: US$ 3,726
• Apr 25 Only 3 seats left
• Apr 27 Only 4 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$ 2,750
• Special Deal (10%): - US$ 282
• Total Price from: US$ 2,468
• Apr 21 Only 3 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 (30%): - US$ 330
• Total Price from: US$ 769

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$ 4,099
• Special Deal (30%): - US$ 1,230
• Total Price from: US$ 2,869
• Apr 16 Only 1 seat left
• Apr 30 Only 3 seats left

Ecuador: Amazon Jungle Short Break

• Activities Getaways and short breaks
• Accommodation Lodge & Hotel
• Transport Flight & Minibus
• Age Range 5-99 yrs
• Apr 21 10+ seats left
• Apr 22 10+ seats left

Traveling to Ecuador? Chat with a local travel specialist in Ecuador who can help organize your trip.

Ecuador Tour Reviews

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.

• Ecuador budget tours
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• Ecuador last minute deals
• Ecuador travel deals

Popular Destinations

• Cotopaxi National Park Tours
• Galapagos Islands Tours
• Quito Tours

Popular Activities

• Cultural, religious and historic sites tours
• Explorer tours
• Natural landmarks sightseeing tours
• Safari tours
• Trekking and Hiking tours
• Wildlife tours

Upcoming Departures

• Spring 2024/2025
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• Winter 2024/2025
• August 2024
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• October 2024
• November 2024
• December 2024
• January 2025
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• September 2025

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THE 10 BEST Ecuador Tours & Excursions

Ecuador tours.

• Sightseeing Tours
• Private Tours
• Walking Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Traditional)
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Mindo Cloud Forest Private Day Tour

2. Private and Personalized City Tour of Quito Teleferico and Middle of the World

3. Baños Full Day Tour from Quito Including Entrances and Activities

4. Day Tour to Isabela Island with Tintorera Islet, Snorkeling Wetlands & Flamingos

5. Cotopaxi Full-Day from Quito Including Entrances

6. Gastronomic and Cultural Walking Tour of Quito with Tastings

7. Cotopaxi & Quilotoa With Optional Hotel Pick-Up & Drop-Off

8. Route of the Dreams Full-day Trekking Jungle Tour in Tena

9. Mindo Cloud Forest Private Day Tour From Quito Hiking, Birding, Waterfalls

10. Transfer Airport-hotel in Galapagos Santa Cruz with visit to Giant Tortoises

11. The Best Extreme Canyoning -Cashaurco in -Banos Ecuador

12. Day Tour to Santa Fe Island and Hidden Beach with snorkeling and fishing

13. Quito City Tour Double Decker Bus

14. 4 Days Cuyabeno Amazon Experience at Waita Lodge

15. Private 3-Hour Canyoning Experience in Chamana

16. Full Day Tour Pinzon Island + La Fe/Las Palmas - Snorkeling & Fishing

17. Discover all Quito; Old town + Mitad del Mundo + Teleférico

18. Day tour to Pinzón Island and La Fé/Palmitas Bay with snorkeling and fishing

19. Visit the Ecuadorian Amazon

20. All inclusive Quito to Banos 2 day tour

21. Cable Car and Quito Private City Tour

22. Quilotoa Full Day Tour from Quito with Entrances

23. Otavalo Tour from Quito Visiting Cayambe, Indigenous Market

24. Day Tour to Floreana Island with Snorkeling and Fishing

25. PREMIUM: Half-Day City Tour in Guayaquil

26. Snorkeling in Cabo Rosa Tunnels Isabela Island

27. The Quiteño tour enjoys history and flavors of Quito

28. Mindo Cloud Forest

29. Cotopaxi and Quilotoa Tour All in One - 1 Day

30. Cajas Unveiled: A Half-Day Escape from Cuenca

What travelers are saying.

Ecuador Tours, Trips, & Cruises

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Ecuador Travel FAQs

Real ecuador & galapagos travel reviews, exploring the cultures of ecuador, jon and joan's excellent adventure in ecuador, top ecuador travel destinations.

• Charles Darwin Center
• Daphne Island
• North Seymour
• Puerto Ayora
• Puerto Villamil
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• South America
• South Plaza Island
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• Yasuni National Park

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Ecuador Trips by Duration

• 5 day trips (88)
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Ecuador Trips by Activity

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The 6 Best Ecuador Tours For Unforgettable Adventures That Are Achievable & Affordable

Posted on Last updated: October 13, 2023

Categories Tours , Ecuador , South America

Expert travel storyteller Jordan Adkins, founder of InspiredByMaps.com, brings a decade of adventures across 101 countries and 450+ UNESCO sites into rich, off-the-beaten-path narratives, melding ecological expertise with genuine, seasoned travel insights. His full bio can be found here.

Ecuador, a compelling nation located on the west coast of South America, is known for its striking diversity of landscapes, abundant biodiversity, and lively indigenous cultures.

This enchanted country, which sits on the equator, provides an incredible abundance of sights for travelers – most of which are covered by the best Ecuador tours. You will be very busy on your holiday with attractions like the majestic Andes Mountains, the luxuriant Amazon Rainforest, and the ethereal Galapagos Islands!

A multi-day tour of Ecuador is the best way to experience everything this fascinating and diverse nation offers. Here are a few reasons why you should consider a multiday tour.

Ecuador is a large country with a wide variety of natural and cultural attractions. A multi-day tour enables you to maximize your time and see several locations while following a set plan. You can concentrate on enjoying the journey and making the most of your experiences.

Multi-day trips within Ecuador are frequently led by qualified and experienced tour leaders who are well-versed in the nation’s history, culture, and natural beauties. Their knowledge is there to help improves your comprehension and appreciation of the locations you see, giving you insightful information and ensuring you get the most out of your vacation. Lively indigenous villages with extensive cultural traditions can be found in Ecuador. A multi-day journey offers the chance to engage with local people, participate in real-life activities that expand your awareness of Ecuador’s cultural heritage, and observe traditional events and rituals.

The unmatched biodiversity of Ecuador, which is most striking on the Galapagos Islands, is one of the country’s greatest treasures. Experiencing Ecuador’s abundance of wildlife on a multi-day tour allows you to get up close and personal with iconic species like giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and blue-footed boobies while learning about ongoing conservation efforts.

In conclusion, a multi-day tour in Ecuador offers a thorough and immersive experience, enabling you to see the nation’s varied landscapes, come in contact with rare wildlife, interact with locals, and take part in exhilarating excursions. You can unwind and enjoy every second of this spectacular adventure through Ecuador’s enchanted lands.

Traveling to Ecuador on a multi-day, organized tour is the best way to experience Ecuador. This is because you will not only be safe but also get a chance to learn about the country in detail from a local, experience local tradition and way of life as well as sit back and travel with ease, knowing everything is preplanned and ready for you. Here are the top six tours in the stunning country of Ecuador!

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Ecuadorian Treasures Bucket List Tour

Ecuador trekking the avenue of volcanoes, 10 days galapagos island hopping in santa cruz and isabela, ecuador: amazon jungle short break, galápagos adventure: snorkelling & sea lions, galapagos – islands hopping with ecuador, guidecuador travel.

Explore the true Ecuador on this multi-day tour!  Explore the Ecuadorian Jungle with a  knowledgeable guide, private transportation, and much more as you discover Ecuador on a small group tour. You’ll bike at one of the most active volcanos in the world, hike in the Andes, visit indigenous communities, sample the cuisine there, and truly get to know the country for what it is. 

Quito is where this tour starts and ends.  The 8-day Ecuadorian Treasures Bucket List Tour from Active Adventure Tours includes stops in Quito and 11 other locations throughout the country. Here is a full look at your itinerary for this tour. 

Day One: Arrive in Quito, where your guide will meet you. Enjoy an orientation later in the day.

Day Two: Early in the morning, we will drive 1 and half hours to the entrance of Cotopaxi National Park. Continue to the Mariscal Sucre Museum, located at 12,000 ft above sea level. Drive towards LImpiopungo Lake, with a possible hike. 

Day Three: in the morning, start the hike from Insilivi towards Chugchilan village. 

Day Four: Drive for 30 minutes towards Quilotoa Lake, where you will take a lovely hike through nature. Continue to Banos City.

Day Five:  start your tour by visiting some Banos City sights like the local market, the main Church, and the Melcochas tasting. Then continue towards the Famous Waterfalls Avenue. Then we will drive to Cumanda village, which will be the start of the Rafting tour down to Pastaza River.

Day Six: take a motor canoe ride on the Napo River, visiting some villages like Misahually, known as The Monkeys Town. Continue the canoe ride to the Arajuno River. Finally, you will visit the AMAZOONICO Rescue Center, where you can see some animals from the jungle. Then we will stop at Tiyu Yaku Kichwa Community, where you will see all about their way of living, ceramic and local cuisine.

Day Seven:  depart early towards Archidona Town. At the food market, you will try the famous ChontaCuro or Jungle Prawns to get enough energy to visit The Jungle Caverns. Drive to Papallacta village to relax.

Day Eight: Departure at any time. 

This tour is easily considered one of the best for its jam-packed itinerary. This tour is loaded with fun activities and lots of sightseeing so you can truly experience Ecuador to the fullest. You’ll experience very eventful days and relaxing evenings, which is the perfect adventure combination. GUIDEcuador Travel operates this tour.

Guidecuador Travel is a tour operator that provides adult groups, families, and single travelers with wholesale group rates on lodging, transportation, activities, and more. They provide a staggering selection of all-inclusive group tours and day trips to a wide range of locations in Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia.

GUIDEcuador Travel focuses on delivering exciting and adventurous itineraries so you can get the most out of your vacation. This tour has an overall rating of 5 out of five stars and can easily be considered one of the best tours in Ecuador. 

Adventure Journeys

Trek in the Ecuadorian Andes as you explore the breathtaking scenery, undiscovered communities, Indigenous cultures, and enormous volcanoes. All these characteristics and others shape the well-known Avenue of Volcanoes in Ecuador’s highlands. You will delve deeply into the Andean culture and way of life with this walking journey along the winding paths taken by the native mountain people.

Quito is where it all starts and ends. You’ll truly see the country in detail with eight full days to discover 10 cities in Ecuador. This tour includes accommodation, transportation, meals, an expert guide, and excursions. Here is a full look at your complete itinerary! 

Day One: Arrival in Quito. 

Day Two: Trekking in Cotopaxi National {ark.

Day Three: Trekking the Toachi Canyon & Chugchilan

Day Four: Trek from Chugchilan to Quilotoa

Day Five: Trek to Chimborazo Basecamp

Day Six: Trek in the Llanganates National Park

Day Seven:  Hike to the Route of Waterfalls and Return to Quito

Enjoy eight full days of trekking through the jaw-dropping volcanos of Ecuador. You’ll be not only immersed in the local culture, but you will be completely immersed in nature as you experience some of the unique wonders of Ecuador.

This tour is special as it offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the active volcanos of Ecuador. Most people visit Ecuador for Galapagos Islands or the capital city, but this tour is quite different as you are completely immersed in the mountains of Ecuador. Adventure Journeys offer this excursion.

To provide the most incredible group adventure experiences, Adventure Journeys has put together a team of tourism experts and expert local guides; through their distinctive client-centered philosophy, it is their goal to achieve the ultimate traveler’s satisfaction.

With an overall rating of 4.8 out of five stars, this seems to be very accurate, and according to travelers, this tour hit the spot just right. In conclusion, this is one of the best tours in Ecuador. 

Ecuador Galapagos Travels

Spend a special vacation in the Galapagos Islands and allow one of the world’s natural wonders to astound you. Explore an uninhabited island, travel to the islands of Santa Cruz and Isabela, swim, snorkel, hike, and experience the magic of the stunning archipelago.

The most amazing ecosystems in the Galapagos will be seen on this all-inclusive vacation plan, from the stunning lunar-like volcanic scenery of Sierra Negra Volcano to the Highlands of Santa Cruz, which are home to the Giant Tortoises.

This tour starts and ends in Quito. You’ll have 10 full days to experience five cities in Ecuador. Meals, transportation, accommodation, an expert guide, and excursions are included in the cost of the tour. Here is a complete look at your day-to-day itinerary for this tour. 

Day One: Arrive in Quito:

Day Two:  Welcome to Galapagos: Santa Cruz Highlands & Charles Darwin Research Station

Day Three: Exploring an Uninhabited Island

Day Four: Morning Bay Tour & Afternoon at Leisure in Santa Cruz

Day Five: Speedboat to Isabela Island & Wildlife on Las Tintoreras Islet

Day Six: Hiking the Sierra Negra Volcano

Day Seven: Free Time on Isabela Island

Day Eight: Speedboat to Santa Cruz Island and Kayaking Tortuga Bay

Day Nine: Transfer to the Airport on Baltra Island

Day Ten: Departure from Quito.

Spend ten full days discovering the Galapagos Islands to the fullest as you experience the islands with a true local expert. You’ll have some adrenaline-pumping adventures and some time to relax with an equal balance of free time. Ecuador Galapagos Travel operates this tour.

For 12 years, Ecuador Galapagos Travel has specialized in intriguing cultural and adventure tours in the Andes, tranquil beach vacations on the Pacific coast, journeys into the enigmatic green world of the Amazon rainforest, and cruises that visit the magical Galápagos Islands.

Whether you’re interested in seeing the jungle, the Andes, the coast, or the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador Galapagos Travel Agency specializes in personalized travel services to satisfy all your travel needs.

You can ensure you will truly enjoy yourself as this tour operator is not only considered a platinum tour operator but is also rated 5 out of five stars. With all this information in mind, this ten-day Galapagos tour is considered one of the best tours in Ecuador. 

Intrepid Travel

On this breathtaking excursion deep into the rainforest, learn the secrets of the Ecuadorian Amazon. Discover the diverse plant and animal life that inhabits this region of the Amazon by going on guided walks and adventurous excursions!

Discover the thrill of sleeping in this remote location deep in the Ecuadorian jungle as you awaken to the exotic sound of birdcalls and the smells of the jungle. You will start and end in Quito on this tour. This four-day travel package includes visits to two Ecuadorian cities with lodging, an expert guide, meals, and other amenities included in the cost. Here is your look at the itinerary for this tour. 

Day One: You will start with being picked up in Quito. You will fly to the riverport town of Coca. A lodge representative will meet you at the airport and take you to the river port. Here you’ll board an 18-meter (57-foot) motorized canoe for a 1-hour trip  In the afternoon, and once you’ve settled at the lodge, your guide will take you on a short hike to a panoramic point for rainforest views.

Day Two – Three: The next two days are packed with activities. You will enjoy wildlife spotting, canoe rides, and jungle walks. You may have the opportunity to meet an indigenous family of the Quichuas del Oriente community, too. You will be surrounded by the true Amazon, which is considered magical. 

Day Four: Depart for Quito. 

This Short Break Adventure is a ‘join in’ group departure, which means an Intrepid group leader does not accompany you; instead, our local representative serves in this capacity. This trip will leave with at least one person, so you might travel with others who have reservations for the same day as you or travel alone. In the Amazon, the temperature might change.

During the day, it can be quite hot, muggy, and sticky, and at night it can be very frigid. The greatest approach to combat the heat during the day is with light cotton clothing, while foundation layers are best for staying comfortable at night.

To feel at ease while exploring the jungle, a reasonable level of fitness is needed. Although lodging in the Amazon is spotless, cozy, and conveniently situated, it can sometimes seem quite simple. Please keep all this information in mind. 

The infamous Intrepid Travel offers this tour. When two guys from Melbourne decided to hit the road and explore the world in the most traditional way possible, they came up with the idea for intrepid travel. Since then, Intrepid has advanced significantly and now offers over 100,000 travelers a year the chance to travel in small groups throughout all 7 continents.

This tour has an overall rating of 5 out of five stars. It is considered very short for organized tours, but it does give you a quick look into life in the Amazon if you don’t have much time. This is one of the best tours in Ecuador.

G Adventures

It’s not just about cruising in the Galápagos Islands! The cost of this 9-day trip is lower than you might anticipate for a fun island excursion while keeping you close to the action – and there’s always enough of it in the archipelago, trust us. Additionally, there won’t be a shortage of activities to keep you busy, ranging from Sierra Negra volcano hiking to snorkeling.

This tour starts and ends in Quito. With nine full days to discover the Galapagos, you’ll see a total of 3 cities on the island, including Quito on the mainland. Accommodations, an expert guide, meals, transportation, and more are completely included in the cost of the tour. Here is a look at your complete itinerary with G-Adventures. 

Day One: Arrive in Quito at any time.

Day Two: Wheels up! Fly to the Galápagos Islands. Transfer across Santa Cruz island to town and take a guided visit in the afternoon to the Charles Darwin Research Station for an opportunity to see the famous tortoises up close.

Day Three: Hop on a speedboat and head to Isabela Island and then hike the Sierra Negra

Day Four: Enjoy a free afternoon to explore the town of Puerto Villamil

Day Five: This morning, enjoy a snorkeling excursion at Concha de Perla with a free afternoon in Santa Cruz Island. Later, head out to explore Puerto Ayora and sample the local specialties of the Santa Cruz Brewing Company.

Day Six: Take another speedboat to San Cristóbal Island and visit the Galapagos National Park Interpretation Center. Later, go snorkelling at Tijeretas.

Day Seven: Free day in San Cristobal Island. 

Day Eight: Say goodbye to the islands and head back to Quito.

Day Nine: This is where the tour ends. 

With an equal balance of free time, action/adventure excursions, and relaxation time, you will surely experience Ecuador to the fullest with the world-renowned G-Adventures.

Officially owned by National Geographic, world-famous for its worldly magazines, this tour operator only recruits the best of the best guides, incorporates the best accommodation, and creates authentic itineraries meant to teach and show you each country in detail. This tour has an overall rating of 4.6 out of five stars. Overall a well-crafted time that is perfect for a trip to Ecuador. 

Bucket List Group Travel LLC

Arriving in Quito marks the beginning of the seven-day journey to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands. Discover the Pacific Ocean’s Galapagos archipelago and marvel at the exotic wildlife that motivated Darwin to study the evolution of species. Visit Frigate Hill to observe the unique birds. View the bright Christmas Iguanas and the adorable sea lion pups.

You’ll Enjoy the breathtaking drives and go trekking in La Loberia’s Highlands. This tour starts and ends in Quito. You’ll spend seven full days discovering Ecuador, with time to explore the capital city of Quito and the Galapagos Islands. Almost all of your amenities are included. Enjoy accommodations, meals, an expert guide, excursions, and transport that is prebooked for you and had in the cost of your tour. Here is your full itinerary for this tour!

Day One: Arrive in Quito.

Day Two: catch the flight from Quito Airport to San Cristobal of the Galapagos Islands. Visit the San Cristobal Interpretation Center. Make your way to Frigate Hill to spot the Frigate Birds. Snorkel with the colorful fishes in the glossy water and then take photos of the sunset at Playa Carola before heading back to the hotel.

Day Three: Enjoy a navigation tour to Leon Dormido for excellent snorkeling and swimming session near Kicker Rock. Head over to the deserted beach to explore the wildlife of the Galapagos. Make your way back to San Cristobal by boat after a few hours. You will return to Puerto Baquerizo at around 4 pm. 

Day Four:  take a ride on the bus or a truck to reach the jagged Highlands of San Cristobal. Stop at Mirador de la Soledad, Laguna Del Junco and Playa De Puerto Chino en route to La Loberia. You’ll also get the chance to Go snorkeling before returning to the hotel.

Day Five: Set out on a tour of Espanola Island after breakfast. Disembark at Punta Suarez and start on the most exciting hike of two hours. Board the boat after the hike to reach the picturesque Gardner Islet. Snorkel with the sea lions at Gardner Bay and return to San Cristobal at the end of the day. 

Day Six: catch the flight to Quito. Embark on a  guided walking tour of the city in the evening.

Day Seven: Drive through Occidental Avenue to ride the Teleferico Cable Car and disembark at Cruz Loma. Enjoy hiking, and then travel to the site of the Middle Of The World, where you can witness the line that separates the northern and southern hemispheres. The tour ends here. 

Explore Ecuador to the fullest on this week-long tour. You’ll experience the true adventure as you immerse yourself in Ecuador’s natural beauty and interesting culture. This tour is considered different and unique for its very busy itinerary and mix of activities. You’ll also enjoy more freedom on this tour.

With a nice balance of free time, education, and heart-stopping adventures, you’ll be kept on your toes the entire week. With excellent ratings from tourists worldwide and a well-put-together itinerary, this tour is one of the best in Ecuador!

These tours highlight Ecuador’s best features, allowing you to see its different cultures, learn about its natural beauties, and take home unforgettable memories of an amazing trip across this alluring nation. In conclusion, These are the top six best tours in Ecuador. 

If none of these tours work for you in Ecuador, please do not worry. There is a wide variety of tour options in the country, and we are confident that there will be something that fits your needs and interests.

Take a look at all the group tours in Ecuador now , which you can sort by private or group, maximum sizing, budget, dates, and much (much more). The team at TourRadar is also always more than happy to answer any questions, provide further information or assist in any way in finding the perfect tour for you.

Ecuador Tours & Vacations

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The flourishing wildlife oasis of the Galapagos Islands makes up a fascinating part of Ecuador’s experience, but the mainland country also offers a unique opportunity for cultural exploration and uncovering an off-the-beaten-path destination. Consult our experts and explore how a custom Ecuador tour will be a trip to remember.

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7  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $1,997

Embrace Ecuador's spellbinding Avenue of Volcanoes during this breathtaking handcrafted 7-day tour. Stand beneath pounding silver waterfalls within emerald forests, immerse yourselves in ancient Ecuadorian culture at hallowed Incan heritage sites, and admire the active volcanoes across the Andes Mountains. This unique tour of the splendors of Ecuador will have you creating lifelong memories that you will cherish forever.

10  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $6,825

Diverse, multicultural, and naturally breathtaking, during your 10-day Ecuador adventure, you can find a South American country with many surfaces to discover as you explore Quito, the Galápagos Islands, and Chocó Cloud Forest. Visit the capital city’s historic landmarks on walking tours, the enchanting volcanic shores of islands on a yacht cruise, and the flourishing forest teeming with wildlife on adventurous excursions, as you enjoy the best of Ecuador.

14  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $9,921

Uncover the mysteries of the Amazon Rainforest and glide across the glimmering waters surrounding the Galápagos Islands on this dreamy 14-day adventure in Ecuador. Quito’s multicultural cityscape expresses generations of European, Moorish, and Incan influence, the Amazon’s forest teems with colorful and curious wildlife, and the Galápagos Islands are surreal volcanic landscapes surrounded by pristine blue waters for travelers to soak up on this extravagant expedition.

8  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $10,459

Experience immersive wonder along pristine coastline and in inspiring nature during your exclusive eight-day Ecuador tour. Uncover the full splendor of the nation’s wealth of colorful flora, vibrant fauna, mouthwatering traditional cuisine, and welcoming cultural traditions as you sail the shoreline on a luxurious yacht. With naturalist guides, regional chefs, and the benefits of local knowledge, you can delight in the grandeur of Ecuador’s coastline like never before.

12  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $11,695

Natural beauty and cultural splendor will define your epic adventure during your 11-day best of Ecuador and Peru tour. The Galapagos Islands will brim with sea turtles while the ruins of Machu Pichu glint on the Andean Altiplano. The Sacred Valley’s lush slopes will lead to marvelous ruins while the glassy Pacific feature untouched marine life. From the ocean to the Andes, you will experience grandeur from Ecuador to Peru.

13  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $12,670

Walk hand in hand through a mystical outdoor playground with this handcrafted Ecuador and Galapagos honeymoon with yacht cruise. Enjoy near-exclusive access to indigenous forests, resplendent Pacific islands, and exotic volcanic worlds. A wildlife realm engulfs the adventure, meaning there are no regrets if you decide to watch it unfold from your 5-star rooms. Just step outside to be amongst basking sea lions, soaring condors, mating seabirds, and the evocative delights of an evolutionary world.

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Experience true decadence in this luxury tour of Galapagos Islands and Ecuador, combining eight days on onboard your beautiful cruise ship with the country's finest hotel and hacienda. Explore the mystical beauty of the archipelago, getting intimate with strange endemic creatures and a dramatic marine world. Then lounge on a luxury deck and revel in the elegance of the cruise. You'll also explore ancient Quito from a historic hotel and complete the trip in the opulent home of two former Ecuadorian presidents.

Natural and cultural history dance across Ecuador, where endemic Galapagos wildlife mixes with the enchantment of haciendas and heritage cities. Combining the iconic treasures, this best of Ecuador and Galapagos Islands tour wraps Quito and Imbabura around a luxury Galapagos cruise aboard a beautiful yacht. Blue-footed birds, golden churches, inquisitive seals, presidential haciendas, and orange iguanas standing on lava flows will all be on display during these 12 days that blend the unforgettable wonders of both Ecuador and Galapagos.

16  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $15,595

Indulge in the solitude and adventure of the Pacific as you enter the mystical natural realm of the Galapagos. You'll explore the archipelago in unrivaled luxury with over two weeks of cruising on a sublime motor yacht. Connect all the remote corners of the archipelago, from red beaches filled with sea lions to millions of seabirds nesting on volcanic cliffs. Luxuriate in the untamed bliss of a small boat Galapagos tour that reveals the islands' incredible wildlife.

Ecuador's jaw-dropping landscapes provide a haven for outdoor adventure. Of the many tours in Galapagos, this itinerary is geared for active explorers. Kayak with sea lions, hike active volcanic craters, horse ride through green wilderness, snorkel into a mystical Galapagos world, and share your journeys with incredible wildlife. Split across mainland Ecuador and the Galapagos, as this multisport adventure tour in Galapagos takes you through the country's unique ecosystems. The trails are devoid of people, but the surreal natural life offers an indelible contrast to rugged landscapes.

The Central Galapagos Islands revel in their intimacy and authenticity, a series of sites symbolizing the dramatic beauty of the entire archipelago. From your base at a luxuriant eco hotel you enjoy 12 days exploring the eclectic sites, taking daily yacht and land excursions to see remarkable wildlife. This exciting venture offers an exclusive land based tour of Galapagos Islands without being on a cruise. Complete the itinerary by marveling at the cloud forest of Mindo and the heritage of ancient Quito.

11  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $10,720

On the Galapagos Islands, you're never alone. Sea lions bask on the beaches, seabirds nest in the thousands, and giant tortoises cover the walking trail. Combining two distinct itineraries, this Galapagos tour for solo travelers offers a tailored blend of everything the archipelago can offer an individual adventurer. You'll island hop and enjoy outdoor adventures with the wildlife, then join a 5-day small-group cruise through the remote eastern islands, immersing yourself in the portraits of natural evolution.

In Ecuador and the Galapagos little is like anything you've seen before. Welcome to a natural world with no parallel, a place where birds have red feet and adjacent islands have their own endemic species. Spend four days marveling at the idiosyncratic world of Ecuador's volcanoes and forests. Then a 7-day Galapagos tour on a luxury cruise, immerses you in the surreal and sublime, taking you to locations that epitomize evolution and diversity. This is the natural world at its most unique and resplendent.

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Dynamic pricing from  $11,045

Natural history is alive in the Galapagos on this 10-day family adventure. Mystical landscapes are explored, unique wildlife is encountered, and a variety of activities allow the family to explore their own piece of the archipelago. This family vacation trip to Galapagos Islands is handcrafted and combines a traditional cruise with time discovering the Andes. Snorkel with penguins, sunbathe beside sea lions, hike volcanic history, and discover a breathtaking world.

Dynamic pricing from  $13,645

Ecuador's charms softly cascade from Andean peaks to surreal islands, as this handcrafted Ecuador and Galapagos tour for senior travelers takes you on a journey of natural wonder and cultural intrigue. Enjoy six days of elegance on the mainland: haciendas, cloud forests, bird watching, colonial cities, colorful markets, and cute villages. Then, a 7-day luxury cruise unveils the intimate mystique of the Galapagos Islands, providing easy excursions to some of nature's most resplendent wildlife sites.

Escape into the sublime natural realm of the Galapagos and enjoy near-exclusive access to its majestic world. Hopping red-footed boobies, endemic waved albatross, giant tortoises, curious sea lions, colorful marine worlds... your 13-day Galapagos and Ecuador tour for private small groups unveils the poetic wonder of the islands and the exemplars of evolution. Before following Darwin's footsteps, you indulge in the resplendent bliss of the Andes and Ecuador's ancient cities.

Over 1,600 different birds flutter across Ecuador's sublime landscapes, the country's unusual ecosystems creating a haven for the endemic and endangered. This handcrafted bird watching tour of Galapagos and Ecuador blends the fabulous range of colors, habitats, and mating displays, from the waved albatross to sword-billed hummingbirds and the Andean cock-of-the-rock. You spend seven days in the Andean cloud forest then five days on the Galapagos, with every day exploring a series of birding sites. If interested in adding additional unique experiences to your custom itinerary, consider perusing the Ecuador and Galapagos page for more trip ideas to Galapagos .

Dynamic pricing from  $6,365

Ecuador's patchwork of cultures and habitats provide a surprising gastronomic journey. With culinary experiences as a focus, this culinary tour of Ecuador connects the major highlights of the mainland, from chocolate farms in the forest to city street food tours and ceviche along the coast. Gourmet delights in colonial towns, bush tucker in the Amazon, guinea pig in enchanting highlands... these 14 days reveal the eclecticism of both Ecuador and its extraordinary cuisine.

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Popular Ecuador Travel Styles

Surprisingly, the best time to visit Ecuador for a coastal trip or Galapagos cruise is during the rainy season months from December to May.

Ecuador’s rainy season brings pleasant warm temperatures, and while showers are frequent, they do not last long. The waters are also calmer during these months, allowing travelers to enjoy snorkeling and watersports.

While the rainy season is a popular time to visit the coast, the cooler dry season, from June through November, is excellent for hiking. When you go will depend on what you wish to do, and our guide on the best time to visit Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands can help you find the right time for your trip.

From the Andean city of Quito to the famous Galapagos Islands like Santa Cruz and the lush Amazon Rainforest, there is a wide variety of destinations to explore on your trip to Ecuador. Here are some of the best places to visit in Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands :

• Quito: Nestled high in the majestic Andes, Quito is an exquisite Ecuadorian city that effortlessly combines towering peaks, lush greenery, modernity, and timeless architectural wonders. Known for its vibrant culture, Quito delights visitors with bustling marketplaces, tantalizing glimpses of shamanic healers, skilled traditional hatmakers, and enchanting cobblestone lanes.
• Santa Cruz Island: Santa Cruz Island stands out with its unique environment and abundant natural wonders. Discover the island's dynamic and immersive beauty, from the colossal lava craters to the breathtaking expanse of pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters.
• The Amazon Rainforest: Ecuador's Amazon rainforest is a one-of-a-kind destination for nature lovers. Filled with astounding biodiversity and untouched wilderness, you can venture deep into the lush green jungle to see exotic birds and follow the calls of howler monkeys.

Discover Ecuador’s diversity of wildlife and landscapes on trips that highlight the natural beauty. You can snorkel crystal clear waters, cruise around the Galapagos Islands, and admire the country’s rich culture. These are a few of the top things to do in Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands :

• Search for unique wildlife in the Amazon Rainforest or along the coastline
• Explore Ecuadorian flavors on a local food tour or gourmet cooking class
• Hike or walk across the sweeping landscapes to discover diverse ecosystems
• Set sail across the Galapagos Islands on a private charter
• Snorkel or scuba dive to see magnificent marine life beneath the water’s surface

Home to an array of unique wildlife inhabiting the Amazon Rainforest and the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador is famous for being one of the world’s most biodiverse destinations and a sensational place for luxury cruises. You can search for endemic animals and birds on tours of the rainforest or retreat to the Galapagos Islands' best beaches on luxurious cruises from mainland Ecuador.

Ecuador is a safe destination to travel to.

Trips to mainland Ecuador take you to popular tourist destinations that are safe for travelers. We recommend staying vigilant in busy areas as, though uncommon, pickpocketing and petty crime can occur. Luxury cruises around the Galapagos Islands are very safe and led by experienced captains and crews.

The Galapagos Islands is a volcanic archipelago off Ecuador’s coast in the Pacific Ocean. You can get to the islands by luxurious private charter and enjoy Galapagos Islands vacations in style.

Showcasing the highlights of the mainland or the gorgeous Galapagos Islands, the best Ecuador itinerary combines wildlife adventure with coastal relaxation. Here is a selection of our most popular itineraries with excellent routing for your trip:

• Our Spellbinding Volcano Tour of Ecuador shows you the best of mainland Ecuador, from Quito to Cotopaxi, Riobamba, and Cuenca.
• Discover Ecuador's Diversity: Quito, Galápagos Islands, and Chocó Cloud Forest in 10 Days on our trip that combines days in Quito with a luxurious island cruise and forest adventure.

Our 14-Day Adventure in the Ecuador Amazon Rainforest & Across the Galápagos Islands highlights the incredible biodiversity of the famous rainforest and archipelago.

Explore more information in our frequently asked questions about planning a trip to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands and inspiration in our Ecuador and Galapagos Islands travel guide .

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The 11 best places to visit in Ecuador

Sep 24, 2023 • 7 min read

Ecuador is all about mountain majesty and captivating cultures © Sunart Media / Shutterstock

Many of South America’s greatest hits can be found in Ecuador , from Andean peaks and the Amazon to tropical beaches, Inca ruins and the wonders of the Galápagos Islands. Pretty impressive for a country that's a fraction of the size of its neighbors!

The hardest part of any trip to Ecuador is deciding which part to visit first. To help you on your way, here's our pick of the best places to visit in Ecuador.

Best city for living the Andean highlife

Strewn across a mountain valley and surrounded by volcanoes, Quito is quite the spectacle. The Ecuadorian capital is a fascinating melange of cultures and a living museum of Spanish-era architecture. For the full panorama, take the TelefériQo gondola up the Pichincha volcano.

Back at street level, admire the faded grandeur of the charming, UNESCO-listed old town, calling at Museo de la Ciudad to learn more about the city’s colorful backstory. And visit the churches – Quito has one of the largest collections of old churches in South America, with the Basílica del Voto Nacional and the gilded Church of la Compañía de Jesús among the highlights.

Quito’s markets are another must-see. Watch shamanic healers ply their trade at Mercado San Francisco before sampling local specialties such as  locro de papas (potato stew), roast guinea pig and cow’s feet soup. And when the sun goes down? Head to La Ronda, a former red-light district turned entertainment quarter, which has live music and lots of cozy bars. 

Planning tip: At 2850m (9350ft) above sea level, Quito is one of the world's highest capitals. Give yourself a day or two to acclimatize to the lofty altitude before venturing to the high ground.

2. The Equator 

Best place to stand in two hemispheres at once

Straddling the equator – hence its name – Ecuador is one of the few places where travelers can take selfies of themselves with one foot in each hemisphere. A huge granite monument dubbed Mitad del Mundo (‘the middle of the world’) marks the location of the equator north of Quito – only it’s in the wrong place.

Modern GPS sets the record straight, placing the true equator near the Museo Solar Inti Ñan . Guides here will show you water swirling differently on each side of the line, plus other fun demonstrations relating to the equator. You’ll have to decide for yourself if it’s just a smoke-and-mirrors illusion or a real scientific phenomenon. 

Best place for volcanic adventures

Baños is the place to go if you like living dangerously. Its main draw is the menacing Tungurahua volcano, which has been belching lava and ash since the '90s, periodically forcing residents to flee. Why do they come back? Well, the volcano also heats the thermal baths that the town is named after and revered for. The steamy spas are highly restorative after a day of trekking, rafting or mountain biking through the surrounding forests.

Planning tip: As well as volcano hikes, Baños is a popular hub for mountain-biking trips, including the dramatic descent to the jungle town of Puyo.

4. The Avenue of Volcanoes 

Best place to hike close to the sun

A bit of trivia: the closest point on Earth to the sun is in Ecuador. The bragging rights belong to the 6263m (20,548ft) Chimborazo volcano . We know it’s not the highest summit on the planet – that’s Nepal's Mt Everest – but due to a phenomenon known as equatorial bulge, the planet isn’t perfectly spherical, and the top of Chimborazo is actually closer to the sun than anywhere else.

Chimborazo is one of eight snowcapped peaks that line the so-called Avenue of Volcanoes, which runs down Ecuador like a knobbly spine. All these peaks are incredible to hike up or around – if your body can handle the dizzying altitudes. Take it slowly to acclimatize; herds of vicuña , a wild relative of the domesticated llama, will keep you company on the way.

5. The Oriente  

Best place for natural wonders

Raindrops pattering on leaves, toucans darting between trees, lush greenery on all sides – The Oriente is a must for any naturalist. This steamy hotbed of biodiversity is where the cloud forests that flank the Andes plunge into the Amazon. More than 1600 bird species are found here, giving voice to one of the most glorious dawn choruses on the planet. Hidden in the trees like Bond villain lairs are wonderful ecolodges such as Mashpi , which offer guided nature walks and canoe expeditions, with profits helping fund conservation.

Best city for architectural treasures

Ecuador’s most beautiful city, Cuenca , has a springlike climate year-round and some of the best-preserved colonial architecture in South America. Its ornate buildings, leafy plazas and blue-domed Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception helped the city earn a rightful place on UNESCO’s World Heritage List. The brutalist Museo Pumapungo proves Cuenca also has a modern outlook, housing a fine collection of contemporary art.

Planning tip: In the city’s backyard is Cajas National Park , a mountainous wildlife reserve with alpacas, Andean condors and giant hummingbirds. It's a great sampling platter of what Ecuador has to offer.

7. Ingapirca

Best place to discover pre-colonial Ecuador

For a glimpse of the country’s precolonial history, head to Ingapirca , where llamas graze among the best-preserved ruins in Ecuador. The settlement was originally inhabited by the Canari people before the marauding Incas came along. Spanish colonizers would later reduce the place to rubble, but enough remains to give a sense of its former grandeur.

Planning tip: Coming with a guide will bring color and context to a tour of the ruins; agencies in Cuenca run regular trips to the site.

8. The Galápagos Islands

Best place for experiencing a unique ecosystem

You could be forgiven for arriving on the islands of the Galápagos archipelago and wondering what all the fuss is about. In places, the archipelago looks more like a desert than a hotbed of biodiversity, but it slowly reveals its secrets – especially when you slip beneath the waves. Here, pirouetting sea lions, stealthy sharks, majestic rays, colorful fish, diving pelicans, swimming iguanas, whales, penguins and more await.

Planning tip: Don’t try to do it by yourself. Book a cruise and let resident naturalists provide the context to help you understand this remarkable, one-of-a-kind ecosystem. They'll also point out evolutionary marvels that you would otherwise miss.

9. Otavalo 

Best place to shop for local crafts

This picturesque little town is home to one of the largest permanent markets in South America. A one-stop shop for alpaca wool garments, handmade Ecuadorian jewelry, native art and other products made by the Indigenous Otavaleños people, it’s an ideal place to shop for souvenirs before jetting home. And it's easy to reach from Quito by local bus (two hours each way).

10. Guayaquil

Best city for culture and nightlife

The beating commercial heart of Ecuador, Guayaquil won’t win first prize in many beauty contests, but its burgeoning cultural scene, lively bars and revitalized neighborhoods are reason enough to hang around. The area known as the Malecón offers a masterclass in urban renewal; this rebooted riverside promenade is lined with sculptures, gardens and restaurants and is home to the quirky Museo en Miniatura , which tells the history of the city using miniature dioramas.

The hillside enclave of Cerro Santa Ana is another fine spot to while away an afternoon, with its colorful hillside homes, bars and cafes. For the best food in town, head to the suburb of Urdesa, northwest of the center; for nightlife, try Las Peñas, immediately north of downtown.

Planning tip: Check out the  Museo Antropologico y de Arte Contemporaneo (MAAC) theater for plays, concerts and films – but don’t expect much in English.

11. The Pacific shoreline

Best place to enjoy surfing and sunshine  

The frigid Andes feel a long way away when you’re sipping a cocktail on Ecuador’s Pacific coastline, which boasts a string of excellent beaches . The coastal town of Salinas spills out onto a fine stretch of shoreline, and it has a decent nightlife, making it popular with locals and tourists.

More laidback and less developed is the ramshackle beachfront village of Montañita  – its cheap digs, decent waves and party vibe attract a steady stream of bronzed backpackers.

Planning tip: To escape the crowds, check out the low-key beach towns of Ayangue, north of Salinas, or Puerto Cayo, north of Montañita.

This article was first published January 2022 and updated September 2023

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Ecuador Travel Guide

Looking for an in-depth Ecaduor travel guide ?

Then you’re in the right place!

Ecuador is a vibrant and beautiful country with something to offer every kind of traveler. From its majestic mountains to its incredible islands, Ecuador boasts a rich history, culture, and ecology that are absolutely worth exploring.

Whether you’re looking to stroll through the historic center of Quito, spot some wildlife on Santa Cruz Island in the Galapagos, or hike some of the best trails in the world in the Andes Mountains, you’ll find plenty of opportunities for incredible experiences in Ecuador.

And if you’re not entirely sure where to start in planning your next adventure to Ecuador, we’ve got you covered in this comprehensive travel guide.

Most travelers to Ecuador visit to take in some of the country’s incredible natural wonders. The famous Andes mountains run through the center of the country, and you can also visit parts of the Amazon rainforest near the Peruvian border.

Quilotoa, a massive crater lake in the Cotopaxi province, is a favorite among hikers, campers, and fans of mountain biking for its incredible views and lush surrounding hills.

One of the best ways to experience the lake is to hike the Quilotoa Loop, a trail circling the lake that offers incredible views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. The full trek can take 3 to 4 days to complete, but you can hike certain parts of the route if you’re short on time. Ecuador’s dry season, from June to September, is usually the best time to visit this area.

Ecuador’s cities also have a lot to offer travelers of all kinds.

Quito , the country’s capital, is a vibrant city full of well-preserved colonial architecture and amazing sites. The city contains so many historic sites that it was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978.

Visit the incredible La Compania de Jesus church, often called “Quito’s Sistene Chapel”, or explore the Ciudad Mitad del Mundo, a museum dedicated to the country’s indigenous history (and the site of the Equator!).

In the similarly historic city of Cuenca , you can see tons of art and culture on display at museums like the Pumapungo Museum, Museo de las Culturas Aborigenes, and the Religious Art Museum in the Old Cathedral.

You’ll also want to visit the city’s colorful local markets and shops where you can get a classic Panama hat to wear on the rest of your adventure.

Worried about Ecuador travel safety? Read on to learn more about the country and get some tips ahead of your next trip.

Keep reading to dive into resources that will help you with planning a trip to Ecuador in South America.

Note: This ultimate guide to Ecuador travel contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Ecuador Map

Use this Ecuador travel map to begin planning your trip to this incredible country!

Click here for an interactive Google Map version of the above graphic.

Mainland Ecuador Travel Guides

These guides will help you plan the perfecto trip to Quito, Banos, and other mainland Ecuador destinations!

5 Budget-Friendly Health & Wellness Getaways (Including Vilcabamba, Ecuador)

Day Trip From Quito: Otavalo Market In Ecuador

Hiking To Bellavista In Banos, Ecuador

Hiking, Monkeys & The Devil’s Penis In Ecuador’s Amazon Jungle

A Self-Guided Walking Tour Of The Cultural & Historic City Of Cuenca, Ecuador

Do It Yourself Adventure: Biking The Waterfalls Of Banos, Ecuador

Galapagos Islands Cruise

Thinking about taking a Galapagos cruise ? These guides can help!

Best Galapagos Islands Itinerary: M/Y Passion Yacht Luxury Cruise + Puerto Ayora

Galapagos Travel Guides

Plan the ultimate trip to the Galapagos Islands with the help of these itineraries and excursions!

12 Things To Do In Puerto Ayora + Day Trips

How To Visit The Galapagos Islands On A Budget

How To Swim With Sharks & Sea Lions In The Galapagos Islands

Galapagos Travel Videos

Packing For A Galapagos Cruise During Mist Season

Puerto Ayora + Day Trip To Las Bachas & North Seymour Island

M/Y Passion Ship Tour: A Galapagos Islands Luxury Yacht

Seeing Pacific Green Sea Turtles In Galapagos – M/Y Passion Luxury Cruise Day 1

Genovesa Island Galapagos: A Bird & Wildlife Adventure [Cruise Day 2]

Galapagos Remote Islands: Exploring Marchena & Santiago [Day 3]

Hiking Dragon Hill & Bartolome Island In The Galapagos [Day 4]

5-Day Galapagos Islands Cruise Aboard The M/Y Passion Yacht [4K]

Ecuador Hotel Reviews

These hotel and hostel reviews will help you choose the perfect accommodation for your Ecuador trip!

A Review Of Hostal Chimenea Hotel, Banos, Ecuador

A Review Of Alternative Hostels in Cuenca, Ecuador

Red Mangrove Aventura Lodge: Waterfront Luxury In The Galapagos Islands

Traveling In South America

These guides share Ecaduor travel advice as well as tips for exploring South America in general!

14 Essential Tips For Backpacking South America

My Most Ridiculous Bus Encounters Backpacking South America

Is South America Safe For Solo Female Travelers?

21 Best Places For Solo Travel In South America

Best Ecuador Tours

Explore local culture with an Ecuadorian tour guide through these unique excursions:

• 7-Day Galapagos Island Hopping Budget
• 6-day Multi Sport Tour in Galapagos including Isabela
• Termas de Papallacta Hot Springs full day tour from Quito
• Mindo Day Tour including Chocolate Tasting, Hummingbirds & Cloud Forest Hike from Quito
• Horseback Riding and Cotopaxi National Park Private Tour from Quito
• 3 Days Exploring the Amazon Rainforest | Tour From Quito to Napo, Ecuador
• Full-Day Ingapirca, Gualaceo & Chordeleg from Cuenca

Ecuador Hotels

Click here to browse the best Ecuador travel hotels!

Prefer self-contained stays?

Click here to check out unique local rentals !

You can also use this map to search for local stays. It’s set to Quito, though you can easily change it to focus on your specific Ecuador destination:

Ecuador Travel Insurance

It doesn’t matter if you’re traveling solo or with a group on an Ecuador tour. When visiting Ecuador — or any other country in the world — make sure to get travel insurance to protect your health and safety.

In my opinion, the best travel medical insurance for travelers is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country).

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

With coverage, you’ll have peace of mind as you embark on your Ecuador travel itinerary.

Click my referral link here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

Ecuador Travel Guide FAQ

Below, find answers to frequently asked questions about traveling in Ecuador .

Q: What are the best places to visit in Ecuador?

Quito , Ecuador’s capital city, is one of the country’s top destinations and one you’ll definitely want to visit on any trip through the country.

The city boasts the largest historic center in South America and you’ll find plenty of gorgeous colonial architecture dating back to the 1500s lining its streets. Visit famous historic churches like the centrally-located San Francisco Church and La Compania de Jesus Church, named one of the most important buildings in the world by UNESCO.

Quito’s location in the middle of the Andes Mountains also gives you the opportunity to take in some incredible views. Climb up the many steps to the hilltop statue of La Virgen de Quito for some of the most incredible vistas of the city and the surrounding mountains.

For those looking to spend some time outdoors in Ecuador’s lush mountains, head to Banos , located right between Sangay and Llanganates National Parks.

Banos offers tons of opportunities for outdoor adventures like hiking, mountain biking, bungee jumping, and more.

At Casa de Arbol, a mountaintop treehouse, you can live out your childhood dreams and take a turn on a giant swing with incredible views of surrounding mountains.

Looking for something a little more relaxing? Enjoy a dip in one of the local thermal baths for which Banos is named.

The city of Banos has plenty to offer as well, with streets lined with colorful buildings and restaurants serving up traditional Ecuadorian dishes.

Of course, most visitors come to Ecuador to experience the Galapagos Islands , an incredible wildlife refuge and UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Here, you’ll spot wild animals like sea lions, giant sea turtles, flamingos, and more as you marvel at the islands’ rich biodiversity.

If you’re a diver, you’re definitely in for a treat, as the Galapagos Islands boast some of the best diving spots in the world.

You’ll likely want to visit this area with a guide or as part of a guided tour, as many areas are off-limits to tourists in an effort to preserve the fragile ecosystem. This is why taking a Galapagos cruise is such a popular option for travelers.

Read more about planning a trip to the Galapagos in our Galapagos Travel Guide .

Q: How much does a trip to Ecuador cost?

The average traveler spends about $51 USD per day in Ecuador on food, transportation, accommodation, activities, and other common travel expenses.

Your budget will depend on where you choose to visit in Ecuador, as some areas are more expensive than others.

For example, if you’re planning on visiting the Galapagos Islands, you’ll want to budget a bit more.

Again, read our Galapagos Islands Tourism Guide for more tips on planning an adventure to the islands.

Q: What is the best way to travel around Ecuador?

The bus is definitely one of the best ways to get around Ecuador. The country has an extensive bus system, with stops in both popular tourist destinations and more remote areas.

Bus tickets are fairly inexpensive and the quality of the buses themselves are usually no-frills (be sure to use the bathroom before you leave as most buses making trips shorter than 4 hours won’t have a bathroom onboard).

You also usually won’t have too much trouble finding a ticket, though if you’re traveling during a holiday you might want to book your tickets in advance, just to be safe.

If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to travel between Ecuador’s major cities, flying might be the way to go. Ecuador has four major airlines that offer domestic flights and fares usually cost less than $100 USD one way.

Flying is also a great choice if you’re short on time — most domestic flights in Ecuador are just over an hour long.

Q: Is it safe to travel to Ecuador?

Ecuador is a fairly safe place to visit. As with many countries in South America, the risk of petty theft is on the higher side so you’ll want to stay vigilant and keep any valuables close to you and out of view when in public, crowded areas to avoid pickpockets .

Robberies can also happen on public transportation and you’ll want to keep an eye out for unlicensed taxis.

Some areas of the country are also riskier than others due to drug trafficking and violence (you’ll want to avoid the border with Colombia in particular).

However, it’s very easy to have a safe and fun trip to Ecuador with some prior knowledge and vigilance.

Q: What do I need to know before going to Ecuador?

One thing to know about Ecuador is that the country uses the U.S. dollar as its national currency. If you’re coming from the U.S. you won’t have to exchange your money and you’ll probably find some good deals throughout the country.

But be sure to bring a fair amount of cash — you’ll find that ATMs are few and far between in more rural areas and most small businesses only accept cash.

Tipping is also expected here and you’ll find that some restaurants will tack on a 10% service fee to the bill. Also, be sure to tip your guides on tours!

As with many mountainous regions, altitude sickness can be a problem in Ecuador, especially if you’re coming from a low-lying area. You’ll want to take a day or two at the start of your trip to acclimate to the high altitude, particularly if you’re planning on doing some hiking.

Make sure you’re drinking enough (clean) water throughout your trip, eat well, and avoid drinking too much alcohol, as it can make things worse. If you’re really concerned about the altitude, talk to your doctor about preventative medications.

If you’re planning on visiting multiple South American countries in one trip, do note that crossing from Colombia into Ecuador (and vice versa) can take some time. Over the past few years, many refugees have fled Venezuela for points south and tend to pass from Columbia into Ecuador (or vice versa) on their way.

Naturally, this can lead to longer wait times at the border. If you’re traveling from Colombia to Ecuador by land, be sure to factor this into your timing and itinerary.

Q: How many days should you spend in Ecuador?

Most experts recommend spending about 10 days in Ecuador to get a good feel for the country.

This will allow you to spend a few days in the country’s major cities like Quito and Guayaquil, take an excursion into the Amazon jungle and visit some of the country’s gorgeous beaches.

If you want to visit the Galapagos Islands during your trip, you’ll want to tack a few more days onto your itinerary. Consider planning a 2 to 3-week trip to get the full lay of the land.

Q: What is the best month to visit Ecuador?

Ecuador’s climate varies throughout the country, so the best time to visit Ecuador will depend on where you plan to travel.

You’ll run into less rain during the country’s dry season, running from June through September. These are also the country’s warmest months, although most areas don’t see that much of a change in temperature throughout the year.

Overall, Ecuador is a great place to visit year-round — just be sure to check the weather before you head out, as certain areas are known to experience “all four seasons in a day.”

Q: Do I need an Ecuador travel visa?

Visitors from the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and the European Union do not need a visa to enter Ecuador.

Visitors from several South American countries, including Bolivia , Colombia , Argentina , Chile , Peru , Paraguay, Uruguay, and Brazil simply need to show their national ID to enter the country.

It’s recommended to view your country’s Ecuador International Travel Information page for the most up-to-date information on entry and exit rules and Ecuador Travel Requirements. You can also contact the Consulate General of Ecuador.

Q: Where is Ecuador?

Ecuador is located in the western corner of South America. It is bordered by Colombia (north), Peru (east and south), and the Pacific Ocean (west).

Q: Are credit cards accepted in Ecuador?

Credit cards — particularly Visa and Mastercard — are typically accepted around Ecuador in tourist areas, though you should carry cash for smaller establishments, outside of tourist zones, and in case of emergency.

Q: Can you drink the tap water in Ecuador?

Aside for in the city of Cuenca, you typically shouldn’t drink the water in Ecuador.

Q: What is the local currency in Ecuador?

The local currency in Ecuador is the US Dollar (USD).

What would you add to this Ecuador travel guide?

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Best Tours in Ecuador

Celebrating 18 Years of Epic Journeys in 2024! – Best Tours in Ecuador

Hey adventure seekers,

Guess what? Ecuador Eco Adventure

is turning 18, and we’re throwing the doors wide open for our 2024 mountain climbing season! Can you believe it’s been 18 years of guiding awesome folks through Ecuador’s jaw-dropping landscapes? Well, we can’t, but here we are, more pumped than ever to take you on another wild ride.

Mountain Climbing Tours:

• Climb Antisana: Picture this: you’re trekking up Antisana, a colossal mountain reaching 5,704 meters (18,714 feet). The scenery changes from grasslands to hardy shrubs, and if you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of an Andean condor doing its thing. For those of you who love a good challenge, there are some decently steep parts to spice things up a bit.
• Climb Carihuairazo: Now, onto Carihuairazo at 5,018 meters (16,463 feet). Think alpine meadows decked out in vibrant wildflowers and maybe even a run-in with a mountain deer. We’ll teach you the ropes of crevasse navigation, perfect for those of you itching to flex your mountaineering muscles.
• Climb Iliniza: Ever heard of Polylepis forests? You will when you climb Iliniza. These ancient trees are a sight to behold as you reach around 5,126 meters (16,818 feet). The climb itself? A mix of rock and ice – just the right amount of challenge to keep things interesting.
• Climb Cayambe: Ready for a challenge that’ll make your heart race? Cayambe, Ecuador’s third-highest peak at 5,790 meters (18,996 feet), has your back. Ascend through páramo landscapes, home to the quirky Ecuadorian hummingbird. Get ready to flex those technical muscles navigating seracs and crevasses.

Specialist in Chimborazo: Chimborazo, the big kahuna of Ecuador’s peaks, is our specialty. Whether you kick things off at the Carrel Refuge or High Camp, you’re in for an altitude-filled adventure. Ice and rock climbing are on the menu, suitable for both the intermediate and advanced climbers among us.

Trekking Tours:

• Inca Trail and Condor Trek: Let’s take a break from climbing and hit the trails. The Inca Trail and Condor Trek offer more than just stunning views. Think unique orchids, towering Puya plants, and if you’re lucky, a spectacled bear or an Andean fox crossing your path.
• Camping Experiences: Now, let’s talk about camping under the stars. Imagine setting up your tent amidst the Andean landscapes, surrounded by the soothing sounds of nature. Our camping experiences are more than just a night outdoors; they’re a chance to bond with fellow adventurers, share stories around a crackling campfire, and wake up to breathtaking sunrise views.

Join Existing Dates: Want a more laid-back adventure? Join existing tour dates through Ecuador Open Tours . It’s like a party on the trails, and you’re invited!

Amazon Odyssey: Cuyabeno and Yasuni Unveiled

Dive deep into the heart of the Amazon with our Cuyabeno and Yasuni tours, where the wild spirit of the rainforest beckons. Traverse through lush rainforests adorned with a vibrant tapestry of medicinal plants and exotic orchids, offering an immersive experience into the intricate ecosystem of these incredible regions.

In Cuyabeno, the pulse of the jungle reverberates through towering trees and winding waterways. Here, the unique biodiversity encompasses a myriad of plant species, from towering kapok trees to delicate bromeliads. Encounter the enchanting world of wildlife as pink river dolphins gracefully navigate the waters, and howler monkeys provide a symphony of sounds overhead.

Venturing into Yasuni, the richness of life is palpable. A treasure trove of flora awaits, with sprawling lianas and canopy-dwelling epiphytes creating a living mosaic. Amidst the emerald foliage, keep an eye out for the vibrant plumage of tropical birds and the stealthy movements of elusive jungle cats. Our tours offer a front-row seat to the fascinating dance of life in the Amazon, where every leaf and creature tells a story of interconnectedness in this extraordinary ecosystem.

Galapagos Expeditions: Immersing in Multiday Island Exploration

Embark on an extraordinary adventure as we invite you to explore the captivating Galapagos Islands through our Multiday Expeditions. These excursions transport you to a realm of unparalleled beauty, where each day unveils a new chapter of diverse landscapes and fascinating wildlife encounters. Imagine snorkeling with playful sea lions – an experience that feels straight out of a mesmerizing nature documentary. The Galapagos Islands are a haven of ecological marvels, a place where the pulse of life beats in harmony with the rhythm of the ocean.

Hotspots and Highlights: A Symphony of Nature’s Grandeur

As you traverse the islands, be sure not to miss the enchanting hotspots that define the Galapagos experience. Tortuga Bay welcomes you with pristine sandy beaches and turquoise waters, providing a serene backdrop for leisurely strolls and moments of introspection. Bartolomé Island, with its otherworldly landscapes, offers a surreal vista of volcanic formations, inviting you to delve into the island’s geological history. And then there’s Kicker Rock, a towering monolith rising from the sea, where snorkeling unveils an underwater world teeming with life.

A Unique Destination Unveiled: Galapagos’ Distinctive Appeal

What sets the Galapagos Islands apart is not just their stunning landscapes but the unique wildlife that calls this archipelago home. Here, you’ll encounter species found nowhere else on Earth – from the iconic giant tortoises roaming free to marine iguanas sunbathing on rocky shores. The Galapagos Islands stand as a living laboratory of evolution, where the intricate dance of nature unfolds before your eyes. It’s a place where Charles Darwin found inspiration for his groundbreaking theories, and where, to this day, the spirit of exploration and discovery thrives. Each island is a microcosm of life, a testament to the resilience and adaptability of species in this isolated paradise. Visiting the Galapagos is not just a journey; it’s an immersion into the very essence of our planet’s natural wonders.

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• Travel Planning Guide

10 Days in Ecuador: The Best Tours

Ready for a 10-day journey to Ecuador that combines relaxation, adventure, and cultural discovery? We've sifted through a wide range of guided tours, meticulously analyzing them based on service, price, guest ratings, and activities. These 10-day tours to Ecuador are the absolute best based on these criteria, so that your trip planning can be easy and fun. They offer the perfect balance between a leisurely holiday and thrilling escapades, allowing you to immerse yourself in the essence of each destination. From exploring iconic landmarks to savoring the local cuisine, every moment of these tours is designed to provide an enriching and unforgettable experience. Get ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime and make the most of your 10-day escape with one of these amazing tours below.

• Ecuador Andean Jewels 10 Days Tour 10 Days, $1990.00
• Ecuador Highlights 10 Days, $2196.00
• Ecuador & Peru Classic 10 Days 10 Days, $3759.00

Which 10-day tour options are available in Ecuador?

Here are the important factors:

• 23 trip options analyzed
• $402 average price per day (USD)
• 4.76 of 5 average rating
• 20 people or less on average

You'll be surprised at the array of tours lasting 10 days in Ecuador, as there is something for everyone. It's no wonder that visitors can't get enough of these tours, boasting an impressive average guest rating of 4.76 out of 5 stars. Picture yourself joining a group of like-minded adventurers, with an average maximum size of 20 people, ensuring a fantastic blend of social and personalized experiences. For physical activity , the tours are marked as easy, moderate, and serious, with a prevalent number on easy tours. With our thorough analysis of 23 tours lasting 10 days, we've found the best. So rest assured that Ecuador has something to captivate every kind of traveler.

(All tour prices are in US Dollars before taxes, and come from a base price that is reported by TourRadar. Peak season prices can vary significantly, particularly in destinations where seasonal travel fluctuates dramatically.)

So, let's get to it and see...

The 10 Best 10-Day Tours in Ecuador

Ecuador andean jewels 10 days tour.

• Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for tours lasting 10 days.
• High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.

This 10-day journey is ideal for guests from 8 to 75 years old. And priced at only $211 per day, it's a great value, too. You'll love the emphasis on local culture and family-friendly activities, too. Experience a trip that takes you to 13 remarkable destinations, including Papallacta, Cotopaxi National Park, Quilotoa, and Riobamba. Begin your trip in Quito and complete it with a memorable finale in Vilcabamba. It's offered by GUIDEcuador Travel , a very popular company with rave reviews and knowledgeable guides.

• In-depth Cultural

Ecuador Highlights

Priced at just $220 per day, this terrific 10-day journey is ideal for guests from 8 to 89 years old. Explore 10 incredible locations on this trip, including Ingapirca, Otavalo, Papallacta, and Puyo. Your journey starts off in Quito and finishes in Cuenca. Organized by the reputable Adventure Journeys , this is one of the best tours on this list.

Ecuador & Peru Classic 10 Days

Check out this incredible journey that has received a 5 out of 5 rating from previous guests, visiting Ecuador and Peru. With a duration of 10 days, this journey ensures an intimate group size of 12 people, and is good for guests from 12 to 80 years old. Discover a journey that spans 13 destinations, with notable stops in Cuenca, Guayaquil, Lima, and Cusco. Your journey will begin in Quito and end in Lima. This fantastic option, organized by GUIDEcuador Travel , presents an unbeatable value at just $376 per day.

Galápagos – Central and East Islands aboard the Reina Silvia Voyager

• On Sale: 20% Off See Prices

Spanning over 10 days, this voyage has a maximum size of 16 individuals. Welcoming guests from 12 and up, it is organized by G Adventures , a very popular company with plenty of great reviews. This trip takes you on an adventure to 10 destinations, including Española Island, San Cristóbal Island, Santa Fé Island, and Genovesa Island. Quito will be both the start and end of your journey. Rest assured, this trip is all about wildlife and beaches, guaranteeing an unforgettable adventure. Available at an unbeatable price of only $584 per day, this option also has a rating of 5 out of 5 stars from previous guests. It's also on sale right now!

Galápagos — East, Central, & West Islands aboard the Eden

Here's your chance to take off on an exceptional journey that has garnered a 5 out of 5 rating. With a duration of 10 days, this jouney will have 16 participants, and it warmly welcomes guests from 12 to 90 years old. Expertly organized by G Adventures , this amazing trip is an incredible value at just $550 per day.

• Ocean Cruise

Galápagos — Central, South & East Islands aboard the Yolita

• On Sale: 30% Off See Prices

This memorable voyage is offered by G Adventures which has received plenty of positive reviews. The trip itself has a guest rating of 5 out of 5 stars, and is priced affordably at $455 per day. Along the way, this journey encompasses 8 destinations, including Santa Cruz Island, Española Island, Punta Suarez, and Santa Fé Island. Quito will be the beginning and end of your trip. The maximum group size is 16 people, welcoming guests from 12 to 90 years old. Act fast to take advantage of the current sale.

Galápagos — North, Central, & South Islands aboard the Eden

Set off on an extraordinary journey that has been awarded a 5 out of 5 stars by previous guests. With a duration of 10 days, this journey offers an intimate group setting, accommodating 16 individuals, while extending a warm welcome to guests from 12 to 90 years old. This itinerary covers 9 captivating destinations, with stops in Española Island, Baltra Island, Genovesa Island, and Bartolomé Island, among others. Begin and conclude your remarkable journey in the gorgeous destination of Quito. Brought to you by G Adventures , this exceptional deal is an incredible steal at a mere $406 per day. Don't miss out on this limited-time sale.

10 Days Galapagos Highlights Small Group Tour

With this option you can experience an unparalleled journey for 10 unforgettable days. It ensures an intimate group setting with 36 participants at most. Immerse yourself in a travel experience that includes 4 destinations, featuring Santa Cruz Island and San Cristóbal Island. You'll start and end your journey in beautiful Quito. Ecuador Galapagos Travels , the organizer of this journey, extends a warm invitation to guests guests from 5 and up. This extraordinary opportunity offers exceptional value at only $248 per day.

10 Days Galapagos Island Hopping in Santa Cruz and Isabela

This fantastic trip has a rating of 5 out of 5 stars. Uncover the beauty of 5 destinations on this itinerary, with highlights such as Galapagos Islands, Baltra Island, and Santa Cruz Island. Quito kicks off your expedition, serving as both the starting and finishing point. Lasting 10 days, the maximum group size is 99 people, and it's good for guests from 5 and up. Organized by Ecuador Galapagos Travels , this is a great deal because it's only $217 per day.

Galápagos – West and Central Islands aboard the Reina Silvia Voyager

With a stellar 4.9 out of 5 rating, this extraordinary voyage is the perfect choice. And since the priority is on wildlife and beaches, this tour is a great choice. Traverse through 8 enchanting destinations, with Santiago Island, Baltra Island, Santa Cruz Island, and Floreana Island among the must-see stops along the route. You'll start and end this amazing trip in Quito. Spanning across 10 days, the voyage accommodates 16 individuals, and is suitable for guests from 12 and up. Offered by G Adventures , this remarkable voyage is priced at just $584 per day. Act fast to take advantage of the current sale. Don't miss out on this incredible experience.

See also The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Ecuador , The Best Wildlife Tours to Ecuador , The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Ecuador , The Best Historical Tours in Ecuador , The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Ecuador , The Best 2-Week Tours in Ecuador , Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Ecuador , The Best Christmas & New Years Tours in Ecuador , The Best Adventure Tours to Ecuador , The Best Eco Tours in Ecuador , The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in Ecuador , The Best Sightseeing Tours in Ecuador , The Best Cultural Tours in Ecuador , The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Ecuador , The Best Honeymoon Tours in Ecuador , The Best Tours Under $1000 in Ecuador , The Best Luxury Tours to Ecuador , The Best Budget Tours to Ecuador , The Best Tours for Seniors to Ecuador , or The Best G Adventures Tours to Ecuador for more tour ideas. With so many options, there's a guided tour or vacation package for every type of traveler.

Also, if you're departing from a specific destination, see The Best 3-Day Tours from Quito , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Quito , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Guayaquil , The Best 10-Day Tours from Quito , or The Best 2-Week Tours from Quito for more package tour options.

How much do 10-day tours to Ecuador cost?

Travelers to Ecuador will have a large number of terrific options for tours lasting 10 days at a variety of great prices. The price of tours lasting 10 days here can vary by type, destinations, length, and travel style. Based on thorough data from 23 tours lasting 10 days, their average daily price is a very reasonable $402 per day. If you're interested in more information about tours here, see our guide to tour prices in Ecuador .

And for more information on Ecuador, see Ecuador Travel Costs and Ecuador Hotel Costs .

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The Top 5 Amazon Tours in Ecuador

Imagine an unforgettable journey into the heart of the world’s most bio-diverse regions.

This is your adventure on Amazon tours in Ecuador, where every corner holds a new discovery for you and your companions. Ecuador’s record-breaking Amazon Rainforest offers you and your family incredible memories.

You can also choose your experience: navigate the winding Amazon River on a high-rated Amazon cruise or base yourself at a comfortable and award-winning rainforest lodge. Both cruises and lodges have their advantages, which we will highlight below.

Jump to introductions to Ecuador Amazon tours

Accompanied by expert guides, you’ll head out each day to explore this remarkable region. See curious monkeys, brightly colored parrots flying over the canopy and a trip-full of other extraordinary sights and sounds.

Here is our summary of top Ecuador Amazon tours. Send your request direct to the lodges and cruises using the tour bubbles below. Use the tour bubbles to check availability and receive your itinerary and tour information.

Amazon Rainforest Tours in Ecuador – Summary

Below this summary, you will find a detailed guide to Ecuador’s Amazon and the individual introductions to each of these incredible experiences.

The Manatee Amazon Cruise

The Manatee Amazon River Cruise is a fantastic cruise for adventures into the wonderful Yasuni National Park, one of the ...

Includes: all meals, accommodation, guided tours, transfers from and to Coca airport, private assistance at Quito airport. | 4, 5, 8 days

The Sacha Lodge

Located in a 5000 acre private ecological reserve, Sacha Lodge provides a safe and comfortable base for you and your ...

Includes: all meals, accommodation, selection of guided tours, transfers from and to Coca airport. | 4, 5 days+

La Selva Lodge

I wanted to let you know that we had an amazing experience at Le Selva! The service, accommodations, guides, tours, ...

Includes: all meals, accommodation, guided tours, transfers from and to Coca airport. | 4, 5 days+

The Anakonda Amazon Cruise

The Anakonda Amazon Cruise provides an immersive and unique experience of the Amazon Rainforest. Enjoy large and comfortable beds, a ...

The Darwin & Orellana Discovery Tour

Enjoy a seamless journey to combine two of Ecuador’s most iconic and wildlife-rich regions. And over 11 days, you will ...

Includes: all meals at Sacha Lodge & Scalesia Lodge, half-board at Finch Bay Hotel, accommodation, all guided excursions, transfers from & to Galapagos & Coca airports, Galapagos & Coca air tickets

Your Introduction to Ecuador’s Rainforest

Ecuador’s rainforest is in the far western part of Amazonia. It’s where the first trickles of the Amazon River begin and where the forest presses up against the Andes. This location is linked to its incredible diversity, as the forest teems with tropica life.

When you exit the plane, you will be greeted by sun, tropical temperature and high humidity. The amount of sun provides energy for this vast expanse of Amazonia. To give a clue to this, even the country’s name of Ecuador means equator in Spanish.

The jewel in the crown of Ecuador’s Amazon is called the Yasuni National Park. Yasuni is the most well known protected area of Ecuadorian Amazon and contains a record-breaking number of species.

Your gateway to Ecuador’s Amazon Rainforest is called Puerto Francisco de Orellana. It’s also known as El Coca. From here, you can enjoy some of the top-rated jungle lodges and river cruises.

On these Amazon tours, you will enjoy guided expeditions in wildlife-rich rainforest to see many animals and plants.

The two main protected areas of Ecuador’s Amazon are:

• The Yasuni National Park
• The Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve

These lay on either side of the Napo River. These areas are connected. And this means surrounding rainforest is home to a similar level of species. This river later merges with others to form the mighty Amazon and provides your way of entering the forest.

The more flooded areas are where you can find the more budget conscious experiences. The premium experiences in Ecuador’s Amazon often focus on the rainforest surrounding Yasuni National Park.

We will mention some of these below.

One of the favorite sights from these experiences are claylicks. Claylicks are areas to see an abundance of colorful Amazonian parrots gathered in one area and are very rare in the northern Amazon. However, you will visit the Yasuni clay lick on the guided tours below.

You will also enjoy guided rainforest walks and canoe experiences to spot different animals. See colorful birds, many different monkeys and fascinating reptiles.

Amazon Rainforest Tours in Ecuador

To make the most of Ecuador’s Amazon, choose a recommended expedition lodge or cruise.

We have picked Ecuador Amazon tours that provide a fantastic rainforest experience. These offer wildlife-rich rainforest, comfortable accommodation, delicious meals and professionally guided tours. You will explore the Amazon Rainforest led by knowledgeable, well trained and friendly guides.

The tours can also help with your transfers from Quito to El Coca.

Amazon Cruise or Rainforest Lodge?

One of the first considerations is to think if you would prefer an Amazon cruise or a rainforest lodge. This depends on your personality and interests.

Cruises visit different rainforest sections. This means you explore a larger area of Amazon.

They can also provide more comfort as they offer air-conditioning giving you a more hotel-like base to return to after guided jungle tours.

As an example, click the recommended Manatee Amazon Cruise video below.

Aboard the cruise, you will explore the iconic Yasuni National Park. The cruise offers canoe exploration and professionally guided forest walks through the national park.

Rainforest lodges, however, can provide more connection to the Amazon. You can often see and hear birds and troops of monkeys crossing the rainforest above your cabin.

This is especially true if the lodge has been there for a while and the animals have habituated to visitors. A good example of this is the fantastic Sacha Lodge.

At rainforest lodges, the paths connecting different lodge areas are on raised walkways. This means you can also see animals simply when walking between areas. See monkeys, lizards and other wildlife from the comfort of the lodge itself.

Some lodges also have incredible canopy walkways like the Sacha Lodge below, which offers one of the more remarkable walkways in the rainforest.

Now let’s have a deeper look at some of the top Amazon tours in Ecuador.

The Manatee Amazon Cruise – 4, 5 or 8-day Amazon Cruises

Aboard the Manatee Cruise , you will travel to different Amazon areas. And you will focus on exploring the magnificent Yasuni National Park.

The Manatee Amazon Explorer offers you a luxury cruise of Ecuador’s Amazon.

Enjoy the Yasuni clay lick, canopy tower, glamping and fantastic guided rainforest walks.

For an introduction, click the video below.

After your excursions, return to the comfort of the vessel. You have a choice of different spacious suite options. Each suite offers large windows, so you can stay connected to the rainforest. You can even see different birds while relaxing in your room. All suites then provide modern en-suite bathrooms.

You will be treated delicious cuisine in the dining room and can relax in the comfortable social areas. There is also a bar and observation deck to enjoy.

To check if your travel dates are available, you can send the Manatee Cruise a request using the button below.

The Sacha Lodge – 4 or 5-day+ Amazon Tour

The Sacha Lodge is surrounded by a 5,000 acre private reserve in connected rainforest with Yasuni National Park.

After you arrive in Coca, you will be escorted up the Napo River. You will then board an engineless boat to be paddled across the Pilchicocha Lake to the Sacha Lodge. The lodge is found across the lake, nestled on the bank.

Even on the journey to the lodge, you will enjoy fantastic rainforest sights. See many different birds and have your first introduction to Ecuador’s Amazon.

You will explore the surrounding rainforest on professionally guided tours. Enjoy forest walks and canoe experiences to find many different monkeys, colorful birds and reptiles.

A main feature of the Sacha Lodge is the incredible canopy walkway.

The walkway is supported by three large canopy towers. These towers are then connected by a 940-foot (275-meter) long canopy bridge. And it’s suspended 94 feet (30 meters) above ground level. With your guide’s help, the walkway provides a fantastic place for you to spot birdlife and different animals.

The Sacha Lodge itself then offers comfortable cabins and en-suite bathrooms. Your bathroom include a hot shower and flushing toilet. All of the cabins are then spaced between the trees in the rainforest. For your meals, you will enjoy delicious cuisine in the dining room or lakeside eating area.

See the video below for a short introduction to the Sacha Lodge.

There is then a lodge bar to enjoy a drink in the evenings. And on at least one of your evenings, you will enjoy a BBQ by the lake. With its canopy walkway, expert guides and wildlife-rich rainforest, the Sacha Lodge is one of our favorites.

To check availability, you can message the lodge using the tour bubble below.

La Selva Lodge – 4 or 5-day+ Amazon Tour

For a little luxury in Ecuador’s Amazon, we recommend La Selva Lodge.

Not only a luxury experience, La Selva Lodge is also Rainforest Alliance certified. This should give you peace of mind that you’re with a responsible operator.

Enjoy guided tours in the surrounding rainforest. Head out scouting for different monkeys. See howler monkeys, squirrel monkeys, capuchins and tamarins. You will also find many parrots, toucans, orchids and more with your professional Amazon Rainforest guide.

La Selva Lodge also offers a fantastic canopy tower to look over the canopy. This is a great place to see many different birds. You will also enjoy seeing the different shades of green over the tops of the trees.

The excellent La Selva Lodge then goes a little further in terms of a luxury experience. The lodge offers an on-site spa for a massage, hot water pools in the family suites and a dedicated honeymoon program.

The Anakonda Amazon Cruise – 4, 5 or 8-day Amazon Cruise

The Anakonda is the larger sister vessel of the Manatee Cruise above.

The cruise offers the same high standard of service and guided tours. And the Anakonda Amazon Cruise offers a fantastic experience of Ecuador’s Amazon.

Your air-conditioned suite offers the perfect place to relax after your jungle expeditions. Explore the Amazon with your professional and friendly guide aboard skiff expeditions and on forest walks.

See an amazing diversity of Amazon Rainforest wildlife. Spot the curious squirrel monkeys, loud and confident howler monkeys and many different birds.

Visit the Yasuni clay lick to see colorful parrots feed from the clay. Observe the Amazon from a tall canopy tower. And enjoy cultural activities to learn about life in the jungle.

Your suite offers floor-to-ceiling windows so you can stay connected to Amazon. You can even spot parrots flying over the canopy and other wildlife from the comfort of your bed.

You will then be treated to delicious cuisine in the dining room, a drink at the bar, or relaxing with a book in the lounge. The sundeck is also a great place to enjoy rainforest scenery and admiring the constellations on crystal clear evenings.

To check availability for your dates, you can send a message to the Anakonda Cruise using the button below.

Combine with Galapagos

Many guests like to experience both the Galapagos Islands and Amazon Rainforest to make the most of Ecuador’s most iconic natural regions.

To make sure you get a fantastic experience of both regions, we have collected some of the top combination tours.

These include the combination of a premium Amazon Rainforest lodge, deluxe Galapagos glamping lodge and luxury Galapagos hotel — all with guided tours — on the Darwin & Orellana Discovery tour.

You will first explore the incredible Galapagos Islands based on Isabela Island. Isabela is the largest of the Galapagos islands and offers fantastic wildlife.

You will also visit Santa Cruz for a luxurious stay at the renowned Finch Bay Hotel, which includes an island-hopping adventure to explore a nearby island. See the famous Galapagos icons while accommodated in comfort. After your Galapagos experience, you will journey to explore the incredible Amazon rainforest.

Learn more about this experience below by clicking The Darwin & Orellana Discovery Tour bubble.

If you would prefer a luxury cruise to make the most of visiting several different Galapagos Islands, we recommend combining Endemic or Elite cruises for the Galapagos and the luxury-class La Selva Lodge for Ecuador’s astounding Amazon Rainforest.

These experiences are owned and operated by the same umbrella company as La Selva Lodge and are happy to work out your incredible package tour. This can make your experience a little smoother.

This creates the best Galapagos and Amazon combination tour we have seen. You can then make the most of your time in the Galapagos aboard the best quality cruises and experience the Amazon at the most luxurious rainforest lodge in Ecuador.

Send your request to La Selva Lodge or the Elite below to learn more.

The Elite Galapagos Cruise

The Elite Cruise invites you on an extraordinary exploration of the Galapagos Islands. With modern luxury, the Elite had its ...

Includes: all meals, accommodation, all guided excursions, captain’s welcome and farewell cocktail, transfers from & to Galapagos airport. | 4, 5, 8 days

The Top Amazon Rainforest Tours in Ecuador

Here is the summary of top Ecuador Amazon tours. See above for summaries of each experience:

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Ecuador Tours & Vacations

Ecuador might be smaller than its heavyweight South American neighbours, but it has no shortage of natural wonders.

Blessed with a bonanza of perfect beaches and the wildlife haven of the  Galapagos Islands , Ecuador’s wealth of natural riches creates a one-stop shop for incredible experiences. Whether it’s spotting hummingbirds in the Amazon rainforest , seeing a condor swoop through the Andes or getting an up-close view of marine life along the coast – Ecuador is unrivalled in serving up South America ’s best. 

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Ecuador at a glance

Capital city.

Quito (population 2.8 million)

18.2 million

US Dollar (USD)

(GMT-05:00) Bogota, Lima, Quito, Rio Branco

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type A (North American/Japanese 2-pin) Type B (American 3-pin)

Learn more about Ecuador

Culture and customs.

About 65 per cent of Ecuadorians have a mixed European background and 25 per cent are indigenous (there are more than a dozen distinct groups). The rest of the population is predominantly from either Spanish or African descent. It’s a small country, but food, dress, dialects and customs can vary throughout.

Ecuador’s two largest cities – Quito and Guayaquil – split most of the population into mountain living and coastal living. People from the coast (Guayaquil) call mountain people (Quito) conservative, whereas mountain people have been known to argue that those from the coast are uncultured. While usually contained to light banter, this rivalry sometimes creates tension between the two cities.

Eating and drinking

Ecuadorian cuisine is largely shaped by its abundant fresh produce. Seafood and plantain dominate the coast, with dietary staples including ceviche, tropical fish (particularly corvina or sea bass) and seafood soups such as encebollado.

Creamy coconut milk is commonly used to create flavourful sauces. Look for the word ‘encocado’ on menus – it means the dish is served in a coconut sauce. 

Foods to try in Ecuador

1. locro de papa.

A classic Ecuadorian potato and corn soup, usually served with cheese, corn and avocado.  

2. Encebollado

Usually made with albacore tuna, encebollado is a pickled onion fish soup. Ecuadorians swear this soup is the ultimate hangover food.

There are many variations of this dish, but just about all of them use seafood as its core ingredient, such as fish, shrimp, octopus, squid, crab, clams or lobster. It’s diced and then marinated in various ways for flavour. 

4. Ceviche de chocos

Vegetarians don’t need to feel left out while everyone is feasting on all the ceviche – ceviche de chochos is a vegetarian alternative. An indigenous bean called chocho is combined with onions, tomatoes, cilantro (coriander), limes, oranges and tomato sauce, then topped with maiz tostado (toasted corn nut), chifles (plantain chips), avocado and hot sauce.

Geography and environment

Tucked away on the continent’s Pacific coastline, Ecuador is one of the smallest countries in South America . Bordering Colombia in the north and Peru in the south, Ecuador contains its own segments of some of South America’s most famous landmarks, including the Amazon rainforest and the Andes.

Like many other South American countries, Ecuador’s coastline boasts a large number of pristine beaches. Mantra, Crucita, Canoa and Montanita are among the famous spots, however there are many other national parks and small coastal towns that offer their own variations of beachside bliss.

Ecuador’s capital, Quito, is located in the north of the country and is renowned for its colonial architecture. To the west of the city is Pichincha, one of Ecuador’s many spectacular volcanoes.

Adding to Ecuador’s list of natural wonders are the incredible Galapagos Islands, which lie about 1000 km west of the mainland. These volcanic islands are famed for their association with botanist Charles Darwin, who spent considerable time studying their incredible biodiversity.

Follow in the footsteps of Darwin on our 10 day Best of Galapagos trip

Top 5 natural marvels of Ecuador

1. volcanoes.

Ecuador is a climbing and mountaineering paradise, with some of the grandest (and most active) volcanoes in the world. Just south of Quito lies the ‘Avenue of Volcanos’, which includes the country's highest peak, and no less than nine awe-inspiring volcanos.

Ecuador is a beach lover’s haven, with a well-earned reputation for supplying some of the most gorgeous spots on South America’s Pacific coast. While there are no shortage of backpacker havens and crowded Ecuadorian holiday spots, those seeking a little more privacy should check out the beautiful Manta and the gorgeous Machalilla National Park.

3. The Andes

Hard to ignore, the Andes form Ecuador’s rocky spine and are home to breathtaking tropical valleys, snow-capped peaks and fresh mountain lakes. A welcome escape from Ecuador’s hot summers, the Andes offer an unforgettable array of high-altitude adventures.

Explore the Andes and the Amazon on our 8 day Ecuador Highlands trip

4. The Amazon

Rich in colour and natural diversity, Ecuador is blessed with a sizeable portion of the famous Amazon rainforest. Lying to the west of the Andes, this incredible jungle is home to some of the world’s most fascinating and unique species, as well as being an ideal place to enjoy activities such as canoeing, trekking and bird watching.

5. Galapagos Islands

Journey to a lost world and discover a wildlife sanctuary that continues to inspire visitors and scientists alike. Relatively untouched by human life, the Galapagos is an ecological Disneyland, the jewel in Ecuador’s already glistening crown.

Discover incredible wildlife on our 8 day Galapagos Island Hopping trip

If you're looking for gifts to take home after your trip, you'll find plenty of local markets throughout the country. Here are a few top shopping spots to buy local goods and souvenirs in Ecuador.

In Quito, the Olga Fisch Gallery is an excellent place to shop clothing, ceramics, paintings and other creations by Ecuador’s best artisans and craftspeople. Be aware that the gallery focuses on high-end products and the price tags reflect the quality.

Otavalo Market in the city of Otavalo – the largest and most famous market in South America – is the best place in the country to shop for handmade artisan goods including alpaca sweaters, textiles, ceramics, leather products, jewellery and woodcarvings.

Known locally as Plaza de los Ponchos, Otavalo Market has been around for hundreds of years, predating Incan times. Vendors sell their wares seven days a week, though Saturdays and Wednesdays are the best days to go when more vendors are set up. Like most markets in Latin America, bargaining is accepted.

Despite popular opinion, Panama hats are not from Panama, they are an Ecuadorian creation. Originally woven using local straw along the coast, these days they’re mostly made in Cuenca.

The city’s hat factories offer an interesting glimpse into the production of this UNESCO-listed craft. Make sure to shop around if you are in the market to purchase your own Panama hat as price and quality vary greatly (between USD 10 and USD 250).

Cuenca is also famed for its ceramics. Artesa and E. Vega Galeria – the workshop of Ecuador’s most famous artist, Eduardo Vega – are two notable places to shop for quality ceramics.

Festivals and events

Ecuador has a busy festival calendar. Here are some of the country's most popular events:

1. Carnival

While many associate colourful costumes and giant floats with Carnival, celebrations in Ecuador are a bit different. Here, the week before Lent (usually in February) is marked with boisterous water/food fights.

Friends and strangers alike can expect to be doused in all kinds of things including flour, water balloons and eggs. If this sort of play sounds more annoying than fun, head to Ambato, where flour is replaced with flowers.

2. Inti Raymi (Festival of the Sun)

Commemorating the June solstice and harvest, this festival is celebrated by indigenous communities across South America. The main event in Ecuador takes place in Otavalo, where barbeques, bonfires, traditional dances and parades go on for a week.

3. Mama Negra

The most important event on the Latacunga calendar features a parade of characters in flamboyant costumes, dancing, drinking and general revelry. Honouring both the Virgen de las Mercedes and the 19th century liberation of African slaves, it’s so important it happens twice – once in September and then again in November.

4. Cuenca Independence Day

Celebrations fill every corner of the city each November as Cuenca commemorates its independence from Spain. Overlapping with the annual Day of the Dead festival, streets fill with people taking in parades, dances, and sporting events; crafts fairs are held across the city; and food vendors set up at cemeteries while families visit the graves of loved ones.

Similar destinations

Thinking about a trip to Ecuador but still browsing other destinations? Check out tours to neighbouring countries:

• Colombia tours
• Brazil tours

Further reading

Ecuador travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travellers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travellers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Do I need a visa to travel to Ecuador?

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveller. Entry requirements can change at any time, so it's important that you check for the latest information. Please visit the relevant consular website of the country or countries you’re visiting for detailed and up-to-date visa information specific to your nationality. Check the Essential Trip Information section of the itinerary for more information.

Is tipping customary in Ecuador?

While tipping isn’t mandatory, tips are very much appreciated by service workers and guides. Leaving a 10% tip is customary in restaurants. Some automatically add a 10% service charge to your bill, in which case an extra tip isn’t required.

What is the internet access like in Ecuador?

Internet can be accessed at internet cafes and hotels in large cities and towns but is limited in rural and remote areas.

Can I use my cell phone while in Ecuador?

Cell phone coverage is good in Ecuador’s cities, but may not be available in rural and mountainous areas. Ensure global roaming is activated with your service provider before leaving home.

What are the toilets like in Ecuador?

Ecuador has a mix of Western-style flushable toilets and squat toilets. Either way, always carry your own toilet paper and hand sanitizer, as these are not always provided. You’ll notice that most flushable toilets have a waste basket next to them. This is because toilets in Ecuador can’t handle toilet paper and will overflow if you try to flush it. Instead, always put used toilet paper in these baskets. 

What will it cost for a...?

Short bus ride = USD 0.20 Juice = USD 1 Street food snack = USD 1.50 Simple lunch = USD 3-5 Sit down dinner at a cafe or restaurant = US$10

Can I drink the water in Ecuador?

Travellers should avoid drinking tap water in Ecuador. For environmental reasons, try to avoid bottled water. Ask your leader where filtered water can be found as some hotels provide this. Remember to peel fruit and vegetables before eating and avoid ice in drinks.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Ecuador?

Credit cards are usually accepted by hotels, large retailers and tourist sites but are less commonly accepted by smaller vendors and family-run restaurants and market stalls. Always carry enough cash for smaller purchases in case credit cards are not an option.

What is ATM access like in Ecuador?

ATMs are easily found in the large cities and airports, although are less common in rural and remote areas. When travelling out of the city, be prepared by having enough cash, as ATMs aren't always available.

Do I need travel insurance before travelling in Ecuador?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of your trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.  For more information on insurance, please go to:  Travel Insurance

What public holidays are celebrated in Ecuador?

• 1 Jan: New Year’s Day
• 19 Apr: Good Friday
• 1 May: Labour Day
• 24 May: Battle of Pichincha
• 10 Aug: Independence Day
• 9 Oct: Guayaquil Independence Day
• 2 Nov: All Soul’s Day
• 3 Nov: Cuenca Independence Day
• 25 Dec: Christmas

For a current list of public holidays in Ecuador go to: https://www.worldtravelguide.net/guides/south-america/ecuador/public-holidays/

Will I experience altitude sickness in Ecuador?

Most people can start to feel the effects of altitude at over 2000 m (6561 ft) regardless of age, gender or fitness level. Quito, as well as other tourist spots, sit above this elevation and some travellers might experience symptoms of altitude sickness, including shortness of breath, headache, nausea and loss of appetite. It’s important to take it easy, drink plenty of water and speak to your group leader at once if you feel unwell.

We recommend seeing your doctor if you have any health concerns before undertaking the trip. Particularly if you have a pre-existing medical condition or take any medication.

Do I need any vaccinations before visiting Ecuador?

Ecuador requires proof of yellow fever vaccination if you are travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever. Many South and Central American countries pose a risk (including Argentina, Brazil and Colombia), so if you are planning on visiting other nearby nations before Ecuador you may be required to get this vaccine. 

Visit your doctor or travel clinic for advice and make sure to schedule your vaccination 4-6 weeks before your departure date, as some require time to become effective. No other vaccines are required in order to enter Ecuador but some are recommended for protection against disease.

Is Ecuador a safe destination for LGBTQIA+ travellers?

Ecuador is a relatively hassle-free destination for LGBTQIA+ travellers. Same-sex marriage was legalised here in 2019 and LGBT discrimination is illegal. In saying that, conservative attitudes still exist throughout the country and LGBTQIA+ travellers are generally advised to use discretion when it comes to public displays of affection.

In the big cities like Quito and Guayaquil, there are many gay-friendly hotels, bars, clubs and cafes, however, they can be harder to find in smaller cities and towns.

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting Equaldex  or ILGA before you travel.

Last updated: 08/12/2023

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

How do I stay safe and healthy while travelling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Does my trip to Ecuador support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveller. Trips to Ecuador directly support our foundation partner, Galapagos Conservancy . 

Galapagos Conservancy  

The Galapagos Conservancy protect the unique biodiversity of the Galapagos. Donations from our trips support their Galápagos Conservancy Women in Sustainable Entrepreneurship (WISE) program, providing critical capital for sustainability initiatives and building the entrepreneurial capacity of Galápagos women.  

Amazon Tours Ecuador: BEST Cuyabeno Trip From Quito (2023)

Some links in this post contain affiliate links. I receive a small commission if you use the links at no extra cost to you! Happy reading 😀

Looking for the best Amazon tours in Ecuador? We visited the Amazon Rainforest with Community Hostel in 2023, and it was one of the best experiences we’ve ever had. And we’ve travelled to a lot of places!

Visiting the Amazon has been a dream of mine for as long as I can remember. Actually being there was pretty surreal – and it took a while for it to sink in! From spotting wildlife to swimming in lagoons, watching the sunset and getting up close to caimans – it’s a once-in-a-lifetime trip any adventure fan needs to do!

In the following post, I explain everything there is to know about the Amazon tours in Ecuador, including the incredible one we did with Community Hostel and the Dolphin Lodge. From daily timetables to activities, weather and what to pack, it’s all included.

But, if I’ve missed anything or you still have a burning question, get in touch to ask! You can email me at jennie(@)jenniewanders.com or send me a DM via Instagram here. I want your Amazon trip to be just as special as ours, so ask away!

So, let’s get started and get planning the most wonderful Amazon Rainforest trip possible!

*Our trip to the Amazon with Community Hostel was sponsored, but we would never recommend a tour that we didn’t truly love . All of the information in this post is an honest reflection of our trip to the Amazon Rainforest in 2023.*

Need help packing for the Amazon Rainforest? Check out my post: What To Wear In The Amazon Rainforest (That Isn’t Ugly)

🇪🇨 Other Ecuador posts:

• What To Wear In The Amazon Rainforest (That Isn’t Ugly)
• Ecuador Itinerary 3 Weeks: FULL Route + Guide
• Quito To Banos: FULL Guide + Route
• Frog Concert Mindo: Just WHAT Is It? FULL Guide
• Quito To Mindo: BEST And Easiest Routes

Want to see epic photos and videos from these experiences?

Follow me on Instagram! As we travel, I post everything live on Instagram, so check out my recent highlights and posts. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, drop me a DM!

Amazon Tours Ecuador: A Summary

Visiting the Amazon Rainforest in Ecuador is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It’s been on my bucket list for as long as I can remember, and actually being there was like stepping into a dream.

During the tour, you can expect to see wildlife that’s not found anywhere else in the world, swim in the waters of the Amazon, trek through the jungle at night, spot caimans and giant anacondas, look out for pink river dolphins, canoe paddle and bird watch and other incredible Amazon specific activities.

It’s a trip that any adventure and wildlife lover needs to do at least once in their lifetime.

There are many tours and trips that you can choose to do in Ecuador. We were lucky enough to visit the Amazon with the incredible Community Hostel and stayed at the Dolphin Lodge. This was one of the best tours to the Amazon from Quito, and I am so glad we picked them (keep reading to find out why!)

When booking a tour, you’ll need to pick a duration. We found most tourists and backpackers in Ecuador do the 4-day, 3-night tour. This is enough time to ‘settle’ into rainforest life, do some epic activities and really experience the magic of the rainforest. It’s also a great amount of time to get to know your group and make some new friends.

If you book with Community Hostel and the Dolphin Lodge, everything is included. Accommodation, food, drinks, activities, a tour guide, the boat ride to and from the lodge, waterproof jackets, wellie boots and everything else you could possibly need whilst you’re remote in the jungle.

The only extra you’ll need to pay for is the bus from Quito to the Cuyabeno Bridge, but Community Hostel will explain this to you when booking.

What company is best for an Amazon tour in Ecuador?

As I’ve previously mentioned, I recommend doing an Amazon tour in Ecuador with Community Hostel and Community Adventures.

They are a sustainable and responsible company that truly brings the magic of the Amazon to life. They have a range of tours all over Ecuador (Cotopaxi, Mindo, Galapagos etc), and are a well-known, popular tour group for tourists and backpackers.

When booking with Community Hostel , you’ll stay in the beautiful Dolphin Lodge, nestled in the middle of the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve. I speak a little more about the lodge further on in this post, but it exceeded all of our expectations.

All ages are welcome – we had a mix of solo backpackers, young tourists, couples in their thirties and way older on our tour! It was a great way to meet new people and make new friends.

The prices of the tours are also exceptionally reasonable and perfect for those backpacking on a budget! For under $300 USD, you’ll get all activities, accommodation, meals, tour guides and even equipment such as wellie boots and raincoats.

And if I’m honest – they just went the extra mile. The guides were all from the local Amazon communities, and they were kind, welcoming and knowledgeable (I have no idea how they spotted some of the wildlife that they did!)

The guides all spoke perfect English and made sure we were all happy and enjoying ourselves throughout – even when some of us were scared of the bugs!

They made us feel like part of the family, and we couldn’t fault their patience and time for us. The meals were delicious, the atmosphere was great, the rooms were comfortable and we had everything we needed; from start to finish.

And it’s for that reason that I recommend the Dolphin Lodge and booking through Community Hostel .

It’s not just a tour – it’s a community. You become part of the family in a short space of time, and your Amazon experience is better than you could have ever imagined!

If you’re in Ecuador and want to do an Amazon tour from Quito, check out the Dolphin Lodge and book through Community Hostel . You won’t regret it!

Where to stay in Quito when doing an Amazon tour

If you are doing an Amazon tour from Quito, stay at Community Hostel . The hostel can then book the Amazon tour for you.

You can also leave your big bag and expensive belongings with them. They have a locked storage room (which is totally safe) so you can pack a small day bag to take with you to the Amazon.

The bus also picks you up and drops you directly back at Community Hostel . It makes your life a lot easier by staying there!

If you are doing the Amazon tour with them, I recommend this kind of structure when staying in Quito:

• Book a night with Community Hostel the night BEFORE your Amazon tour. Enjoy Quito and the activities the hostel put on (family-style dinners, games, quiz nights, walking tours etc).
• The next night, you do not need to book accommodation. The bus for the Amazon picks you up at 11.30 pm, so just chill at the hostel in the TV lounge and get some rest before the big adventure!
• Book another night at Community Hostel on the final day of the tour . You’ll get dropped off at the hostel late on return from the Amazon (around 11 pm- 1 am in the morning), so the last thing you want to be doing is travelling around Quito at that time!

❗️HOW WE DID IT: We booked a night at Community Hostel on Wednesday, travelled to Cuyabeno on Thursday, and returned to the hostel on a Monday night (where we stayed again).

➡ Book your Community Hostel stay now!

What to expect from Amazon tours in Ecuador

Any Amazon tour in Ecuador is full on. You can expect to be up and out early each morning, with the day ahead being packed full of activities. It’s non-stop, so make sure you’re prepared for it!

I’ve listed some of the activities and the daily schedule below, but just be open to changes, or things going wrong (ie the weather) and remember you are in the Amazon Rainforest. Whatever happens, whatever you do – it’s all an experience!

Related post: What To Wear In The Amazon Rainforest | Backpacking Ecuador: What to Expect

Activities on the Amazon tours in Ecuador

All of the Amazon tours in the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve are pretty similar. As we did our tour with Community Hostel at the Dolphin Lodge, I’ll talk a little about the types of activities we did.

Our tour was non-stop. It was packed full of bucket list activities, and I could not have planned a better trip myself! Activities included (but were not limited to):

🛶 A nightly lagoon trip to watch the sunset over the Amazon. You’ll stop here for an hour-ish, chat with your new friends and even jump in the water for a swim!

🔦 A night walk through the Amazon. Put your wellies on, grab your flashlight and walk through the forest in the pitch black. This is the best time to spot bugs and creatures you’ve never seen before!

🦅 Early morning bird watching. You’ll take the canoe out (with no engines to limit noise) to spot the best early-morning birds and animals.

🚶🏼‍♂️ A two/three hour day hike through the Amazon . Your guide will take a machete and quite literally cut trees to guide you through the rainforest! Spot bugs, animals and learn all about the plants of the Amazon.

🐊 Nightly watches to spot wild caimans and anacondas. You’ll do this from the safety of the boat!

🛖 Visit a local indigenous community. You’ll take a one-hour boat, then do a one-hour hike through the jungle to meet the locals of the Amazon.

🌿 A meeting with a local Shaman. He’ll talk through the ways they use medicines and local herbs to heal the people of the community.

🛶 Canoe paddling to get up close to the local wildlife, including pink river dolphins and monkeys.

Prices of the Amazon tours in Ecuador

Prices for Amazon tours in Ecuador vary depending on duration, accommodation type, time of year and what’s included.

If you’re sticking to one of the more popular Amazon tours like Community Adventures , you can expect to pay similar to:

• 4 days, 3 nights: $270 USD per person
• 5 days, 4 nights: $320 USD per person

Both of these tours include all activities, wellie boots, meals, drinks (non-alcoholic), mosquito nets, waterproof ponchos and a traditional-style Amazon accommodation. More on accommodation in the next section!

Accommodation on the Amazon tours

When booking an Amazon tour in Ecuador, one of the things that might be important is accommodation and room style.

Let me start by reminding you that you’re staying in the Amazon Rainforest – so unless you have a few thousand pounds to drop, you’re going to be in pretty standard rooms!

The Dolphin Lodge (which is where you stay with Community Adventures ) was a cosy, large, wood-built cabin around two hours from the Cuyabeno Bridge . The other main lodges in Cuyabeno are all relatively close together.

The Dolphin Lodge has a large dining area (where we’d sit and eat family-style meals), as well as a long wooden deck and viewing platform for relaxing on hammocks and jumping into the water.

It’s also a popular spot for a pod of dolphins to swim in front of the lodge (hence the name!) so always keep an eye out!

In terms of the rooms, they’re basic but they do the job. We had comfortable beds with mosquito nets; meaning we didn’t get a single bite during the night! The showers have temperamental hot water, but most of the time you crave a cold shower anyway, so it’s a nice escape from the humidity!

We were travelling as a couple, so we had our own private room (which I wasn’t expecting!). If you’re a solo traveller, there are shared dorms. Depending on your group size, you will either be put in a shared dorm or in a private room.

If you have specific wants and needs about room sizes, you can chat with Community Hostel beforehand.

Getting to the Amazon from Quito

The Amazon Rainforest in Ecuador is, of course, remote. It takes a long time to travel from Quito to the area you’ll be staying in, so be sure to include this in your trip time.

The main tourist area for the Amazon in Ecuador is the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve. It is the second largest reserve and protected area in Ecuador and is nestled in a part of the Amazon Rainforest.

Getting from Quito to the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve looks a little like this:

The bus from Quito to the Amazon rainforest

A coach (with wifi and comfortable seats) picks tourists up from all over Quito every night around 11.30pm-midnight. We were picked up FIRST from Community Hostel – meaning we had first pick of the best seats!

The bus is usually full, but not full of people all necessarily on your tour. Everyone stays in different lodges.⁣ We met a few people staying in the Dolphin Lodge at Community Hostel , so we already had friends before the tour began!

From pick-up, it’s around a 12-13 hour drive to the Cuyabeno Bridge (where you’ll jump in your canoe and head to your lodge). The drive is fine – it’s a little windy at times, so I recommend travel sickness pills if you suffer badly. However, we were both fine for the duration.

There are no toilets on the bus, but you make regular stops. We also had a few people ask every now and then to stop for the loo, so don’t feel worried about asking.

As it’s overnight, you don’t stop for a lunch break, so take any snacks you might need. On the journey back to Quito, you do stop for lunch at a traditional Ecuadorian roadside cafe (plus the Dolphin Lodge will prepare a packed lunch for you to take too!)

The boat from the Cuyabeno Bridge to your lodge

After a long and sleepy 12-hour bus journey, you’ll arrive at the chaotic Cuyabeno Bridge. This is – quite simply – chaos. There are hundreds of tourists at the bridge (and we travelled during the off-season!) who are waiting to ‘board’ their motorboat to head down to their lodge.

This is where you will meet your guide. A guide and volunteer from Dolphin Lodge will meet you at the bridge (or a guide from whichever tour you are on) and prep you for the boat journey ahead.

Be sure to use the loo, grab a snack and a raincoat ready for the boat ride. Your bags will be placed in a waterproof compartment on the boat (although I don’t recommend taking any laptops or anything that can get easily damaged) and you’ll be given a poncho in case it starts raining.

From the Cuyabeno Bridge, it takes 2-3 hours to travel to your lodge, depending on where you are staying. If you’ve booked with Community Hostel like we did, the Dolphin Lodge is around a 2-hour journey.

But this boat journey is incredible – and it’s actually the start of your Amazon tour! Just a few minutes in, we saw several types of monkeys, toucans, birds, bugs and fish – it was an adventure from the word go.

Our tour guide Elias was amazing at spotting wildlife in the trees, and we even had a set of binoculars to see a little closer! We’d pull up close, watch the monkeys pick berries from the branches and the fish jumping out of the water to catch the fallen goods. It was pretty special.

Daily timetable on the Amazon tour in Ecuador

When on one of the Amazon tours in Ecuador, the timetables are all pretty similar. But as we did the Community Hostel tour (and of course, it’s the best Amazon tour in Ecuador 😏), I’m going to talk you through what happened with us.

Our daily timetable in the Amazon Rainforest looked a little like this:

6-7 am: wake up, prepare for the day. If you’re birdwatching, it’s a 5 am wake-up call to be on the boat by 6 am to spot the best wildlife.

8 am: family-style breakfast with your group.

9 am: activities begin! Depending on what they are, they can either overlap lunch (and you’ll eat lunch out) or you’ll head back to the lodge to eat.

2.30-3.30 pm: lunch at the lodge or in the community.

4-5 pm: afternoon activities!

8.30 pm: return to the lodge for another family-style meal.

9-9.30 pm: bedtime! You can buy alcohol from the bar, but we were all far too exhausted. We were all asleep by 9.30 pm!

If you have specific wants/needs, the Dolphin Lodge is really open to ideas. For example, we wanted to head to the lagoon for another sunset swim when it wasn’t on the itinerary, and they were happy to accommodate us.

We also spotted pink river dolphins during breakfast, and as you can imagine, we dropped everything and ran barefoot out to the canoe to get a closer look!

Nothing is set in stone, it just depends on what you and your group would like from the tour.

What to pack for an Amazon tour in Ecuador

This was something I really struggled with before visiting the Amazon. What on earth do I pack? Is it too hot for long sleeves? Do I need a raincoat? And do I still want to look cute?!

Let me start by saying; no one cares what you look like. So don’t even waste a thought on looking ‘cute’. It’s humid, hot, sticky, dirty, and muddy – looking nice just isn’t on the radar when you’re out there.

The most important thing is to have long sleeves – both top and bottom. This isn’t just to protect you from mosquitoes, but also the trees, branches, twigs, bugs, ants and spiders you’ll cross when walking through the dense jungle.

(That isn’t to scare you – it’s just a fact when you’re walking through the Amazon Rainforest!)

But it is humid. You’ll want a short-sleeved top, dress or shorts to wear when you’re relaxing at the lodge. If you have insect repellent, you can wear a ton of this when you’re not covering all of your skin.

In terms of shoes, you’ll mainly wear the wellie boots which are provided by the lodge. They go right up to a size 13 (UK) so even my 6 foot 5 boyfriend was able to grab a pair! The mud in the rainforest is so exceptionally thick and wet that you won’t be able to wear anything else.

But – take a pair of sandals or flip-flops too. When we had finished a long hike, and then had a long boat ride back, the last thing we wanted was to be sitting in our heavy wellies. We’d swap out our wellies for our sandals, and even dip our feet in the water to cool down.

The Dolphin Lodge provided a waterproof poncho for us, so there was no need to bring a waterproof jacket. But of course, this is a personal preference.

Other items to pack for the Amazon tour in Ecuador

When you’ve packed a few long-sleeved tops and trousers, I also recommend adding the following items . I have linked my top choice for each one to make your life even easier!

• Insect repellent (just as vital as taking clothes!)
• A rain jacket (although most tours will provide these for you)
• Sunscreen (reef friendly as you might be swimming)
• Swimsuit (yes, you can swim there!)
• A quick-dry towel
• A reusable water bottle
• A day bag (to carry a water bottle, camera etc)
• A dry bag (to use in the canoes to and from the activities)
• An adapter and a portable phone charger – there is electricity at the lodge
• Cash to tip and to pay the local community fee
• A phone with a torch, or an actual flashlight for the night walks
• A book or Kindle to read during your rest time
• Shower gel and normal toiletries (there are no shops there, obviously)
• Extra batteries for everything. Even though there is electricity, it’s communal and only on at certain hours of the day. Take spare fully-charged batteries if you can.

FULL Amazon Rainforest Packing Guide: What To Wear In The Amazon Rainforest (That Isn’t Ugly)

What to NOT pack for the Amazon tour

You’re going to be jumping in and out of canoe-style boats for the duration of your trip. I highly recommend leaving most of your belongings at Community Hostel whilst you are gone.

We left pretty much everything at Community Hostel and just took an average-sized day bag with us. Laptops, expensive equipment, spare clothes, anything you don’t need in a rainforest – can all be left at Community Hostel in a safe, locked storage room.

It’s also incredibly humid everywhere in the Amazon, so you don’t want anything important or expensive getting damaged.

In summary, do not take to the Amazon (unless you absolutely have to):

• Laptop or expensive tech
• Your entire big bag (leave most of your belongings in the locked storage room at the Community Hostel )
• Hair appliances (there’s no electricity in the rooms, only communal spaces)
• More than 2 pairs of shoes (sandals and trainers will suffice)
• Food – you’re only going to attract animals to your room if you have secret food stuffed in your bag! Don’t do it.

Best time to visit the Amazon in Ecuador

You can visit the Amazon rainforest in Ecuador 365 days a year. There is a dry and wet season in Cuyabeno, and we actually visited during the wet season.

Did it rain? Yes, but not nearly as much as we expected! Most of our days were long, sunny and humid, and we only had rain in the last 12 hours of our trip. But this rain was heavy – in fact, I’ve never seen anything like it. For reference:

🌞 The dry season starts in September and ends in March. This is when the river is only 1m deep, and it’s easier to spot animals such as giant otters, anacondas and caimans. There is still rain during this time, but a lot less frequently and for a shorter amount of time than during the wet season.

☔️ Wet season starts in April, and runs until early September. The river is 5-6m deep during this time, and it’s easiest to spot pink river dolphins.

Throughout the year, it is humid and hot. Expect to be sticky, muddy and dirty 365 days a year. Well, you are in the Amazon Rainforest after all!

The average temperature in the Ecuadorian Amazon is 73-82°F (23-28°C).

Related posts: 3 Days In Quito: The PERFECT Itinerary | Quito To The Galapagos: Easy Step-By-Step Guide

Food and drink on the Amazon tour in Ecuador

The food and drink on the Amazon tour is great. I can’t speak for every lodge, but the Dolphin Lodge really pulled it out of the bag!

We were fed three giant, delicious meals per day, with vegetarian and vegan options available. Meals always included a mix of both traditional Ecuadorian foods and Western foods. We even had spaghetti bolognese one night!

Each meal is served with lots of carbs (mainly pasta and rice), with a whole ton of bread rolls to fill up on in case you’re still hungry.

Everything is cooked on-site, so if you have a special request or need, the chances are they can cater to you. But again, if you’re unsure or worried, contact Community Hostel to double-check.

But of course, the lodges are in the middle of the rainforest. There are no shops, cafes or other restaurants. You have to eat at your own lodge, so be sure to check you’re staying at a lodge with good food (aka, the Dolphin Lodge with Community Hostel !)

Examples of our meals include spaghetti bolognese, frittata, chicken (or veg) and rice and so on. There was nothing too different to the norm, and you were always given fruit for dessert (which was usually locally picked from the rainforest!)

Alcohol is available to buy additionally, but we were all way too tired for that!

Wifi and Signal on the Amazon Rainforest tour

There is no Wifi or signal in most of the lodges, including the Dolphin Lodge. Wifi is available for staff for emergency reasons, but it is not given to guests. Expect a few days of being totally off-grid!

Swimming on the Amazon Rainforest tour

Believe it or not, you can actually swim in the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve. Yes, there are caimans, anacondas and piranhas – but they’re not interested in you.

Some people opted out of swimming (and that’s totally ok too!) but most of us jumped in and enjoyed the cooling water. It’s safe, refreshing and for me, was a huge bucket list tick!

Most of the swimming takes place in the evening at sunset. All lodges will take the motorboats to the giant lagoon (around 20 minutes from the Dolphin Lodge), and stop the boat to watch the sun go down, chat amongst new friends and jump into the water.

This was actually my favourite part of the day. Watching the sunset and a full moon (we were extremely lucky) from the boat. Seeing the sky turn from blue to a deep orange, then a blushing pink to a rich purple… it was mesmerising.

All whilst the trees from the Amazon swayed in the wind, and the cool air brushed against our skin. These evenings are memories I’ll cherish for a lifetime.

Wildlife on the Amazon Rainforest tour

The types of wildlife you’ll see will depend on the time of year and luck.

We travelled to Cuyabeno during the wet season (in June), which is the hardest time to see animals like anacondas and caimans. But it is the best time to see pink river dolphins; as they don’t have to swim hours downstream to find deep water!

We were lucky enough to see pink river dolphins (right outside the Dolphin Lodge!), hundreds of monkeys (and lots of different species), caimans, toucans, birds, turkeys, giant otters, tarantulas, frogs, bugs, ants, spiders and more.

Sadly we didn’t see a giant anaconda, but another group did! You just have to remember it’s the wild and it’s nature – everything to do with weather and wildlife is down to luck.

Vaccines for visiting the Amazon tour in Ecuador

The yellow fever jab is required for the Amazon in Ecuador. We got this for free in Colombia ( read more about how here ).

Currently, in 2023, you do not need anti-malarial tablets to visit the Cuyabeno Reserve in Ecuador. We did not take them, and no one in our group did either.

However, it is vital that you do your own research, and go with whatever you feel is safest. Your country may recommend otherwise. I am not able to give medical advice and recommend you do this independently.

But from my experience, it was not common for tourists visiting the Amazon in Ecuador to take anti-malarial pills.

Related post: Getting the yellow fever vaccine in Cartagena, Colombia as a tourist

Amazon Tours Ecuador: FAQs

1) where is the best place to visit the amazon in ecuador.

The Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve is the best place to visit the Amazon in Ecuador . With more than 604,000 hectares of rainforest, the Cuyabeno Reserve is full of lagoons, rivers, wildlife and stunning nature.

If you’re visiting for the first time, I recommend booking an organised Amazon tour with Community Hostel . They take care of everything – from transport to rooms, activities to wellie boots – it’s a trip anyone and everyone can take to one of the most special places on the planet.

2) How much would a trip to the Amazon rainforest cost?

This depends on how long you stay and who you book with. I highly recommend booking with Community Hostel (they were faultless !) where you can expect to pay around $270 USD for a 3-night, 4-day tour. This includes accommodation, meals and all activities.

3) How long should you stay in the Amazon rainforest?

If you’re visiting for the first time and would like to do a tour, I recommend the 4-day, 3-night tour with Community Hostel. We found this was a perfect amount of time to do all of the activities, enjoy the rainforest and have an epic experience!

But it all depends on what kind of person you are and what you want from your Amazon trip . We had people in our group who only stayed for 2 nights, but also those who wanted to stay for 4 nights.

We even had a European volunteer at our lodge who had been in the Amazon for six weeks, and was planning on staying for at least another three months!

4) Are there mosquitoes in the Amazon rainforest?

Yes, and they’re pretty bad. But if you have insect repellent and long sleeves, you’ll be fine. As someone who gets bitten quite badly, I highly recommend the insect repellent that is a cream rather than a spray. We found this worked much better, and came away from the Amazon with hardly any bites whatsoever!

Check out my full Amazon packing guide for more tips on mosquitoes!

5) Is the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve worth it?

Yes, yes and yes again. We honestly could not be more thankful to Community Hostel for making our Amazon rainforest dreams come true.

To be remote in the rainforest, away from civilisation, with zero phone signal, surrounded by nature…nothing that beats it. We would return in a heartbeat!

Ultimately, if you’re a big fan of nature and wildlife, a trip to the Amazon should be high on your bucket list!

What to pack for Ecuador

Packing for Ecuador is similar to most Central/South American countries, although you need to pack some warmer clothes for locations like Quito.

Luckily for you, I’ve written an entire, lengthy blog post about what to pack for Ecuador ; from daily clothes to gadgets and tech, the right kind of backpack and things you may have forgotten. You can check out my full Ecuador packing list here!

Don’t forget travel insurance for South America!

If you’re visiting South America as a backpacker, or even for a short vacation, it is  so  important to have  travel insurance .   And  if you ended up on a post that’s called ‘epic party tips’, you know (just as well as I do) that you  definitely  need travel insurance.

Personally, I recommend  SafetyWing .  As a digital nomad and world traveller myself, I can confirm it is the best travel insurance out there. And one of the cheapest – they have deals that start at  just $42 USD per month.

I know, I know, you’re thinking  ‘but I can’t afford that!’ . I was the same! It’s tough to fork out $42 a month on something ‘you might not need’. But what if something DOES happen? That extra Mezcal shot results in you falling down the stairs, or you eat something dodgy from a street food van.

If you need medical help at  any point  whilst in South America,  you need  travel insurance.

With  SafetyWing , you’re covered on travel emergencies, basic medical costs and medical expenses throughout your trip, so you can travel without worry (at a backpacker’s price!)

Don’t even think twice about getting travel insurance for South America . Trust me, I have heard enough horror stories about backpackers who haven’t had insurance and have ended up in a  lot  of debt. Don’t be that person!

If you’ve been putting the job off because it takes a lot of time and effort to research the  best travel insurance companies , I understand. That’s why I’ve done the hard work for you. Sign up for  SafetyWing , and the job is done!

Amazon Tours Ecuador: In A Nutshell

So, there you have it!  Everything you need to know about the best Amazon tours in Ecuador; and my epic recommendation of the Community Adventures Amazon tour .  When you’re planning a trip to Ecuador, make sure you let me know over on  Instagram  or in the comments below!

If you haven’t seen my blog before, I write posts aimed at   real-life  travellers wanting authentic and down-to-earth information.   I’m currently travelling around the world with my boyfriend  (read more  here !), creating guides and itineraries for you to follow in our footsteps!

Keep an eye out for more Ecuador content,  all written from a personal and realistic point of view. You can sign up for my newsletter and juicy travel updates  here!

As always, thanks for reading and supporting the blog!

Happy travelling 🙂

• Quito to Mindo: Full Travel Route
• Backpacking Ecuador: COMPLETE Guide
• Frog Concert Mindo: WHAT Is It?!
• Quito to Banos: Full Travel Route + Guide
• What To Pack For Ecuador: All-Year Round Guide

MEET THE AUTHOR!

Hi! I'm Jennie! As a part-time travel blogger based in London, I'm using my 10+ years of travel expertise to encourage & inspire you to step out of your comfort zone through sustainable, mindful and purposeful travel.

If I'm not writing, I'm either reading, drinking coffee or taking a wild swim (all at the same time if I'm feeling impressive).

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