Discover attractions in Ecuador, from the Galápagos Islands to the Amazon Rainforest. Get insider tips, hidden gems, and expert travel advice to plan your perfect trip.
My Personal Journey Through Ecuador I still remember the moment I stepped off the plane in Quito—the crisp mountain air, the buzz of the city, and the feeling that I was about to embark on something unforgettable. Ecuador had been on my bucket list for years, but nothing could have prepared me for the adventure that lay ahead.
Quito’s Old Town
My first stop was Quito’s Old Town, where I wandered through cobblestone streets lined with centuries-old churches. Standing at the Mitad del Mundo, straddling the equator, I felt a strange sense of balance—one foot in the Northern Hemisphere, the other in the South.
Galápagos Islands
Then came the Galápagos Islands—a place so surreal it felt like stepping into a wildlife documentary. I swam alongside playful sea lions, watched blue-footed boobies perform their quirky mating dance, and stood inches away from giant tortoises that had lived for over a century. I still laugh when I think about that marine iguana that sneezed saltwater on me!
Baños
From there, I headed to Baños, Ecuador’s adventure capital. Swinging over the edge of the world at La Casa del Árbol, with nothing but clouds below me, was a moment of pure thrill and awe. The Pailón del Diablo waterfall left me drenched but exhilarated, and I capped off the day with a long soak in the thermal baths under the stars.
Amazon Rainforest
Next, I dove into the Amazon Rainforest, where the air was thick with the scent of earth and rain. I paddled silently through jungle rivers, spotting pink dolphins and listening to the eerie calls of howler monkeys. One night, my guide took me on a night safari, and I locked eyes with a caiman—a moment that sent chills down my spine.
Otavalo
In Otavalo, I found a different kind of adventure—one woven into the vibrant patterns of local textiles. The market was alive with color, music, and the aroma of freshly cooked empanadas. I bargained for an alpaca wool poncho, which still reminds me of the warmth of Ecuador, both in fabric and in spirit.
Cotopaxi Volcano
Finally, I stood before Cotopaxi Volcano, its snow-capped peak piercing the sky. The hike was challenging, but reaching the José Rivas Refuge and looking out over the Andean landscape was worth every breathless step.
Ecuador changed me. It showed me the power of nature, the richness of culture, and the thrill of stepping outside my comfort zone. If you’re planning a trip, my advice is simple—go with an open heart, embrace the unexpected, and let Ecuador surprise you. Read detail below and plan you trip.
Why Visit Ecuador?
Ecuador is one of the most biodiverse and culturally rich countries in the world. From the Galápagos Islands’ unique wildlife to the historic streets of Quito, Ecuador offers something for every traveler. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a history enthusiast, or someone looking to relax in nature, this guide will take you through the top must-visit places in Ecuador, along with insider tips to make your trip unforgettable.
1. The Galápagos Islands – A Wildlife Lover’s Paradise
⭐ Best for: Nature, Wildlife, Snorkeling
📍 Location: 600 miles off Ecuador’s coast
The Galápagos Islands are one of the most spectacular natural wonders on Earth, home to giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, and marine iguanas.
Top Experiences:
✔ Snorkel at Devil’s Crown, one of the best underwater sites in the world
✔ Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station to learn about conservation efforts
✔ Hike Sierra Negra Volcano on Isabela Island for stunning lava landscapes
💡 Insider Tip: Visit during June–November for cooler temperatures and the best wildlife spotting.
2. Quito – Ecuador’s Historic Capital
⭐ Best for: Culture, History, Architecture
📍 Location: Northern Ecuador
Quito is the second-highest capital city in the world, known for its well-preserved colonial architecture and rich history.
Top Experiences:
✔ Explore the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
✔ Take the TelefériQo cable car for breathtaking views of the city
✔ Visit Mitad del Mundo, where you can stand on the Equator line
💡 Insider Tip: Quito sits at 9,350 feet above sea level—drink plenty of water to avoid altitude sickness!
3. Baños – Ecuador’s Adventure Capital
⭐ Best for: Extreme Sports, Hot Springs, Waterfalls
📍 Location: Central Ecuador
Baños is an adventure hub known for waterfalls, thermal baths, and adrenaline-pumping activities.
Top Experiences:
✔ Swing over the edge of the world at La Casa del Árbol
✔ Bike the Ruta de las Cascadas to see Pailón del Diablo
✔ Relax in the thermal baths after a day of adventure
💡 Insider Tip: Visit early in the morning for the best views at the swing before the crowds arrive.
4. Cuenca – The Most Beautiful Colonial City
⭐ Best for: Architecture, History, Relaxation
📍 Location: Southern Ecuador
Cuenca is one of Ecuador’s most charming and well-preserved colonial cities, often compared to European towns.
Top Experiences:
✔ Wander through the historic Old Town
✔ Visit the Pumapungo Archaeological Park
✔ Take a day trip to Cajas National Park
💡 Insider Tip: Cuenca is the best place to buy authentic Panama hats!
5. The Amazon Rainforest – A Jungle Adventure
⭐ Best for: Nature, Wildlife, Eco-Tourism
📍 Location: Eastern Ecuador
Ecuador’s Amazon region is one of the most biodiverse places on Earth.
Top Experiences:
✔ Stay in Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve
✔ Take a night safari to see nocturnal creatures
✔ Visit an indigenous Kichwa community
💡 Insider Tip: A local guide is essential for exploring the Amazon safely and responsibly.
6. The Mindo Cloud Forest – A Nature Lover’s Dream
⭐ Best for: Birdwatching, Eco-Tourism, Chocolate
📍 Location: 2 hours from Quito
Mindo is a lush, misty paradise perfect for nature lovers.
Top Experiences:
✔ Go birdwatching
✔ Zipline through the cloud forest canopy
✔ Take a chocolate-making tour
💡 Insider Tip: Visit in early morning for the best birdwatching experience.
7. Otavalo Market – Ecuador’s Handicraft Capital
⭐ Best for: Shopping, Culture, Local Crafts
📍 Location: 2 hours from Quito
Top Experiences:
✔ Bargain for alpaca sweaters & Andean instruments
✔ Try traditional locro de papa (potato soup)
✔ Visit Peguche Waterfall
💡 Insider Tip: The market is biggest on Saturdays—arrive early for the best selection.
8. Cotopaxi National Park – The Land of Volcanoes
⭐ Best for: Hiking, Photography
📍 Location: Central Ecuador
Top Experiences:
✔ Hike to the José Rivas Refuge
✔ Spot wild horses & condors
✔ Take a horseback riding tour
💡 Insider Tip: If you’re not an experienced climber, opt for a day hike instead.
9. Quilotoa Lagoon – Ecuador’s Most Beautiful Crater Lake
⭐ Best for: Hiking, Scenic Views
📍 Location: Andes Mountains
Top Experiences:
✔ Hike the Quilotoa Loop
✔ Kayak on the lagoon’s turquoise waters
✔ Visit a local Kichwa community
💡 Insider Tip: Bring warm layers—the altitude makes the weather unpredictable.
10. Isla de la Plata – The “Poor Man’s Galápagos”
⭐ Best for: Wildlife, Budget Travel
📍 Location: Off the coast of Puerto López
Top Experiences:
✔ See blue-footed boobies & sea turtles
✔ Snorkel with manta rays
✔ Spot humpback whales (June–September)
💡 Insider Tip: A budget-friendly alternative to the Galápagos Islands!
11. Guayaquil – Ecuador’s Vibrant Coastal City
⭐ Best for: Food, Nightlife
📍 Location: Southwest Ecuador
Top Experiences:
✔ Stroll along the Malecón 2000
✔ Visit Las Peñas neighborhood
✔ See free-roaming iguanas in Parque Seminario
💡 Insider Tip: Try encebollado, Ecuador’s best seafood soup!
12. Montañita – Ecuador’s Surfing & Party Paradise
⭐ Best for: Surfing, Nightlife
📍 Location: Ecuador’s Pacific Coast
Top Experiences:
✔ Take a surfing lesson
✔ Enjoy beachside nightlife
✔ Relax on hidden beaches
💡 Insider Tip: Stay outside the main area for a quieter experience.
Final Thoughts – Is Ecuador Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! Ecuador has something for every traveler.
💬 Which destination excites you the most? Let us know in the comments!
