For being such a small country, Ecuador provides every type of experience that you could possibly imagine. Ranging from exhilarating hikes in the Andes, to beautiful beaches for lounging and one of a kind Amazon experiences. With the perfect mix of culture, history, cuisine and four worlds packed into one country. Whether you are traveling solo or with friends Ecuador’s rich diversity will fulfill all your needs.
20 things to do in Ecuador:
Hit the streets of Old Town Quito & New Town
Come and join us on our Free Walking Tour to get a full Historic Center experience, come and learn about the colonial plazas, traditional food markets, the historic churches of Quito that are lined with gold. Take in the panoramic views from the towers of the Basilica.
The north part of the city is also a bustling metropolis waiting to be explored, explore the gardens in beautiful Parque La Carolina or duck into some quaint cafes for a recharge.
Ride up Pichincha Volcano on the TeleferiQo
Take the Gondola up to 4,100 meters above sea level and enjoy the views of Quito and if you are lucky the neighboring volcanoes. If you are feeling up to it there is an additional hike from the Teleferico to the summit of Rucu Pichincha, it is about a 4-5 hour hike to the summit where the views are even more spectacular. During the winter season it is best to go in the morning before the clouds roll in.
Mitad del Mundo
When in Ecuador, what better to do than visit Latitude Zero. Here in Quito we have 2 locations to mark the equator. The Museo Inti ñan is the GPS calculated line where you can defy gravity and bust some myths. At the museum you will have the opportunity to learn about the history of Quito and how they knew that we were on the equator, also see some of the solar clocks used by the indigenous communities. Just 200 meters around the bend is the historic monument called Ciudad Mitad del Mundo, at this location you can get a picture with the widely recognized monument and explore the shops of local goodies (more information about the Mitad del Mundo).
For daily transport to Mitad del Mundo check out our Middle of the World Tour.
Take in the beautiful sights and colors of Otavalo
Otavalo is highly recognized for its Plaza de Ponchos which is the largest outdoor artisanal market in Ecuador. For around 85 years of history the Saturday market in Otavalo is a must see and do while in Ecuador. All of the various communities from around the area come to the market to display and sell their handicrafts, you can find anything and everything here: artwork, clothes, ceramics and even local food.
The market is not the only wonder that Otavalo and its province have to offer, if you are able to stay in the area and explore you won’t be disappointed. There are scenic hikes around Cuicocha lagoon and the thundering Peguche waterfalls are all great areas to explore around Otavalo.
Check out our Otavalo Market Tour.
Explore the beauty and nature of the Cloudforest Mindo
Mindo is a beautiful, small village nestled in the north part of the Andes in Ecuador with a subtropical forest climate which is home to a great diversity of flora and fauna. If you are a avid bird-watcher then Mindo is the place for you, with over 400 different exotic bird species you will not be disappointed. But you will not only find birds in Mindo, there is also an abundance of butterflies and orchids to apease the nature lovers. For the more adventurous folks there are plenty of options; zip-line though the canopy of the cloud forest, ride the “tarabita” across to the waterfalls and hike, or tube down the river to cool off, taste the divine Ecuadorian chocolate at the factories.
Whether you want nature or adventure Mindo is a great place to escape for a couple of days (more information about Mindo).
If you are on a limited time schedule and want to explore Mindo in one day see our Mindo Cloudforest Tour.
Get lost in the Amazon in the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve
Have you ever imagined yourself swimming in the lake in the middle of the jungle as the sun sets around you? If you answered yes then Cuyabeno is right up your alley. The Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve, is an oasis of peace and adventure in the Ecuadorian Amazon, it is truly one of the country’s best treasures.
Among the various experiences travelers love about this area is the spontaneous sighting of the reserve’s flora and fauna – birds, monkeys, caimans, frogs, bullet ants, turtles, pink river dolphins, electric eel, boas, and if you’re lucky, an anaconda. The guides in Cuyabeno are all native and very knowledgeable about the species you will encounter, so you will learn about the region’s botany and the intriguing properties of your surroundings.
You can plan a 3, 4 or 5 day experience to the Cuyabeno with us: Cuyabeno Jungle Tour.
Stand above the clouds at the top of Cotopaxi
One of the top things to do when beeing in Ecuador: Have you ever imagined yourself walking above the clouds? If so then you are in luck!
Cotopaxi volcano is Ecuador’s second highest peek, if you are an avid mountain climber and want to challenge yourself this is the one for you. The summit sits at 5, 897 meters above sea level and if you do reach the peak you will be rewarded with the most spectacular views imaginable. The ascent to the summit takes about 2-3 hours, and for those who don’t want to reach the summit but just explore the beauty of the National Park you can do a smaller hike up to the refuge at 4,600 meters.
A popular way to visit Cotopaxi is on a Hike and Bike tour for one full day.
Check out our Cotopaxi Bike and Hike Tour.
Loop around the Quilotoa Crater Lake
When it comes to breathtaking, must see landmarks in Ecuador; the Quilotoa Crater lake is one of them. You have many options when it comes to Quilotoa which sits at 3, 814 meters, you can hike down to the turquoise, sulphuric water. There is a path laid out to hike from the rim down and you can even kayak in the lake, to get back up you can challenge yourself to a straight uphill hike or rent a mule to do the work for you. If you are more avid hiker you can tackle the 5-6 hour hike around the rim of the crater lake, or do the infamous Quilotoa Loop which is about a 2-3 day hike around Quilotoa to all the small towns that neighbor the national park. No matter how you do it, make sure you check Quilotoa off your bucket list.
If you only have 1 day to visit, check out our Quilotoa Tour.
Baños de Agua Santa, adventure or party?
One of hte highlights of Ecuador: If you are the kind of person that loves adventure and extreme sports, then Baños is the perfect place for you. This small(ish) city is jam packed with activities, from the thundering waterfalls that surround Baños to the gravity defying swings if you want to take the leap of faith. Some of the most popular attractions in Baños are the Casa del Arbol, where you can swing into the most amazing views of Tungurahua Volcano. And out of all the waterfalls in Baños, el Pailon del Diablo (Devil’s Cauldron) is definitely the most grand with its roaring water surrounded by lush vegetation, make sure you have a poncho or raincoat as you will get soaked! Or if you want to take a more relaxing approach you can visit one of many spas and thermals in Baños. If after all of that you are not tired, Baños has an excellent night life where you can dance till dawn.
White water rafting in Tena and its surrounding areas
If you are looking for a shorter Jungle experience then Tena is perfect, located in the center of the amazon region. If you are a water sport junkie then look no further than the great rapids of Tena, one of the best destinations for white water rafting in all of Ecuador. You will have a variety or rivers and categories to choose from.
While in Tena you can also visit the Amazon, Puerto Misahualli is just off the Napo River and you can get a feel for the jungle. With the capuchin monkeys living freely around you and also visit a Kichwa community native to that area. Also in that region you will find the Caverns of Jumandy which are not extremely well known but definitely worth the visit. Inside the caves you can see the underground water currents and the spectacular stalactites and stalagmites that have formed over the years.
Take a ride into the Devil’s Nose
One of the most unique wonders of Alausi is the Devils Nose Train, this zigzag path into the Chanchan river gorge climbs 500 meters in only 12 kilometers. Don’t let the Devils Nose scare you, it is one of the most beautiful train rides in Ecuador. Even though Alausi is a small town nestled in the Province of Chimborazo, it has plenty to offer. From the delicious, traditional food in the market to the wondrous sights of the Lagunas de Ozogoche. You can also trek up to the statue of San Pedro to enjoy a beautiful panoramic view of the town.
Our hostel is located right in front of the Alausi train station, so hop on over the tracks and purchase your ticket: Community Hostel Alausi.
Visit the Ruins of Ingapirca
The largest known Inca ruins in Ecuador are Ingapirca or translated to english would be “Inca Wall”, located in the town close to Cañar. The most significant building of the ruins is the Templo del Sol its elliptically shaped building or whats left of it was constructed in the Inca way without mortar and hand chiseled to fit together perfectly. To see this spectacular sight for yourself you can take a tour from Cuenca for the day or if you want to stay near by there is lodging in the surrounding towns of El Tambo or Cañar. Or if you are a hiker/nature lover you can also tackle the 3 day Inca Trail hike that can start from Alausi and takes you though many sights until you arrive to the ruins.
Cuenca, our own little piece of Europe
Cuenca is the capital city of the Azuay province, and its largely recognized for its UNESCO world heritage sight city center. It resembles Spain due to its 16th and 17th century colonial architecture which is what makes Cuenca so popular. They are also well known for their textile industry, such as hats and shoes. It is also known as the city of 4 rivers, which surround the city and allow for walks along the riverfront such as the Tomebamba river which goes along the colonial center of Cuenca. Many people also choose Cuenca as their go to place to retire, so you know it must be beautiful and relaxing.
El Cajas National Park
Take a hike through the highlands of Ecuador, in this park about 30 km west of Cuenca. With around 270 lakes and lagoons inside the park, it is home to to many endemic species of animals some of which are highly endangered. Even if you are not an avid hiker, El Cajas still has plenty to offer. You can go climbing, fishing, camping and bird watching. So if you are heading south in Ecuador make sure you take the time to stop in this national park, even if for only a day it’s a nature experience you can’t miss.
Eat your heart out in Guayaquil
Guayaquil is Ecuadors largest city and the country’s main port, with nice hot weather year round to keep you sweating! While it does have lots to offer in term of landmarks, Guayaquil definitely stands out for its FOOD, honestly some of the best food in Ecuador. Basing heavily on seafood (which is obvious since they are on the coast), they also have the best “menestra” around; which is rice, grilled meat and lentils or beans.
For all the foodies coming to Ecuador you have to make the time and room in your stomach to go and try all the varieties of cuisine in Guayaquil. If you want to walk off all that food you can stroll through Las Peñas and brave the 444 stairs up Cerro Santa Ana to the majestic white and blue lighthouse. You can also enjoy a walk along the Malecon which goes along the River Guayas and go up for amazing panoramic sights in the ferris wheel of La Perla.
Party like a beach bum in Montañita
Just 3 hours north of Guayaquil on the Ecuadorian coast line in most likely one of the funnest places to stay. Montañita is a true beach party town, it is just a small-town but jam-packed with thrills.
A great spot for surfing with consistent, strong waves always available and the most ideal summer weather year round. After all the water sports you can hang out in one of many beach bars and enjoy an ice cold beer or cocktail! It is very easy to get trapped for much longer than you planned in Montañita, it truly is a one of a kind place that won’t let you leave its sandy shores.
Explore the wonders of Playa de los Frailes
This white sand, crystal blue beach is truly one of Ecuadors most beautiful spots. Inside the National Park of Machalilla it is a great place to stop for the day if you are traveling the coast line. Since it is a national park there is no camping or accommodation at Los Frailes. So you are only able to visit for the day, but it is recommended to bring everything you will need with you. You can also go snorkeling along the half-moon shaped shoreline. Or if you are looking to scuba dive in Los Frailes you can pick up a tour from Puerto Lopez, since this beach inside the national park it is only accessible via private car or taxi.
Truly a place for all ages to come and enjoy, a sight you can’t miss!
Get a sneak-peek of Galapagos in Isla de la Plata
Sometimes known as the poor man’s Galapagos, Isla de la Plata is a part of the National Park of Machalilla and is just off the coast of Manabi. Here on the island you can get a small taste of what the Galapagos islands have to offer, you can see 3 different species of the booby bird and some sea lions as well. You can pick up a tour to the island from Puerto Lopez to go out for the day, see the animals and do some hikes. So for those of you that can’t make it over to Galapagos this time around, try and make the trip out to Isla de la Plata!
Discover the uniqueness of Galapagos Islands
Prepare to be enchanted by the Galapagos Islands, a cluster of volcanic islands just off the coast of Ecuador; it truly is a once in a lifetime experience. Here you can lay on the beach next to the sea lions and iguanas who most likely will not get up and move to give you a spot on the sand. You will also get a chance to photograph many of the islands endemic species such as the giant tortoises, blood red crabs, the boobies, the Galapagos penguin and so many more.
You can dive in many places around the islands and get a glimpse into life under the sea, or if you want a more relaxed approach under the water you can easily get some snorkel gear and take the plunge. Another great way to see the islands is via bike, especially the volcanic coastline of Isabela Island.
Come and see for yourself why the Galapagos are Ecuador’s most precious treasure! See our Galapagos land based tours.
Always go local!
Finally this is just some of our personal advice for wherever in Ecuador you end up. Try, taste, hear and see the local ways. Sometimes the best foods are hidden away in the local markets in every city or town. The best way to really experience a country is by giving the food and culture a shot.
Even if it’s a strange animal part you never thought about eating, you might be surprised at just how good it is. Indulge in all the vibrantly colored fresh fruit that is offered. Skip the fancy restaurant for one night and go explore the streets cause it’s usually those hole in the wall food places that will have the best tasting food!
