Ecuador

Ecuador: general info for travelers

Ecuador is a small country located in South America, bordered by Colombia on the north, Peru on the east and south, and the Pacific Ocean on the west. The capital city is Quito, which is known for its beautifully preserved colonial architecture and vibrant culture. Ecuador is known for its diverse geography, which includes the volcanic peaks of the Andes, the lush Amazon rainforest, and the wildlife-rich Galapagos Islands. Its national parks and protected reserves offer a wealth of natural beauty and biodiversity, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Ecuador is also home to a rich cultural heritage, with indigenous communities preserving traditions and customs that date back centuries. The official language is Spanish, and the currency is the US dollar.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Ecuador, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Ecuador: places to visit

Certainly! Ecuador is a diverse country, with many different regions and attractions to explore. Here are some of the main places to visit in Ecuador and a brief description of each: 1. Quito: Ecuador's capital city, located in the Andes Mountains. It is known for its well-preserved colonial architecture and historic city center, which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site.
2. Galapagos Islands: A group of 19 volcanic islands located 620 miles off the coast of Ecuador in the Pacific Ocean and known for their unique wildlife, including giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and blue-footed boobies.
3. Cotopaxi National Park: Home to Cotopaxi, one of the highest active volcanoes in the world. The park offers hiking, trekking, climbing, horseback riding, and camping opportunities surrounded by stunning Andean landscapes.
4. Baños de Agua Santa: A town located in the Andes Mountains, known for its hot springs, adventure sports (such as white-water rafting and canyoning), and panoramic views of Tungurahua volcano.
5. Cuenca: Ecuador's third-largest city, located in the southern Andes region. It is known for its well-preserved colonial architecture, cultural events, handicrafts, and traditional cuisine.
6. Mindo Cloud Forest: A biodiverse area located two hours northwest of Quito, known for its abundant birdlife including the Andean cock-of-the-rock and several species of hummingbirds.
7. Montañita: A laid-back beach town located on the Pacific coast, known for its surf breaks, nightlife, and bohemian atmosphere.
8. Ingapirca: Located in the southern Andes, it is the largest and best-preserved archaeological site of the Inca Empire in Ecuador, with impressive structures and intricate stonework.
These are just a few of the many amazing places and attractions to visit in Ecuador. I hope this helps you plan your trip!
There is more to see and do in Ecuador: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Ecuador: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Ecuador, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Ecuador has two main seasons: the dry season and the wet season.
The dry season runs from June to September, and December to January, with pleasant temperatures and mostly clear skies. It's a great time to visit Ecuador's Amazon and Andes regions.
The wet season runs from October to November, and February to May, with higher temperatures, occasional heavy rain showers, and more cloud coverage. However, it's also a great time to experience Ecuador's wildlife and explore the country's coastal regions.
Overall, the best time to visit Ecuador depends on the activities and regions you want to explore. If you're planning to visit the Andes, June and July are the driest months and perfect for hiking. If you want to experience Ecuador's Galápagos Islands, December through May is a great time to see unique wildlife and do some snorkeling and swimming.

Ecuador: activities and what to do

Ecuador offers a wide range of activities and sports that travelers can enjoy during their holidays. Some of the most popular options are: 1. Hiking and trekking in the Andes Mountains, Cotopaxi National Park, and the Galapagos Islands 2. Surfing in Montañita, a popular beach destination 3. Snorkeling and scuba diving in the Galapagos Islands 4. Mountain biking in Baños, a scenic town nestled in the Andes Mountains 5. Whitewater rafting in the Amazon jungle or in the highlands 6. Paragliding in the Andes Mountains or near the coast 7. Horseback riding tours in the Andes Mountains or along the coast 8. Birdwatching in the Mindo Cloud Forest or in the Galapagos Islands 9. Spa treatments and thermal baths in the hot springs of Papallacta or Baños 10. Cultural experiences such as visiting indigenous communities, exploring historic cities like Quito or Cuenca, or attending any of the many local festivals and celebrations.
These are just a few of the many activities and sports that Ecuador has to offer for travelers looking for adventure and fun.

Ecuador: few words on history and culture

Ecuador is a country located in South America, known for its rich history and diverse culture. The country has a long and fascinating history that dates back to the pre-Columbian era, when it was inhabited by numerous indigenous tribes. Later, Spanish rule and colonialism heavily influenced Ecuador's culture and history.
Ecuador is also known for its biodiversity, home to over 1,600 species of birds, numerous plant and animal species, and the famous Galapagos Islands. The country's unique geography also lends itself to a diverse array of climates, from the Andes Mountains to the Amazon Rainforest to the Pacific coast.
Ecuador's culture is a blend of indigenous, Spanish colonial, and Afro-Ecuadorian influences. Music, dance, and festivals play an important role in Ecuadorian culture, with the country hosting many colorful celebrations and events throughout the year, including the famous "Inti Raymi" festival. Traditional attire, food, and customs also vary by region, highlighting the country's multicultural heritage.

Ecuador: how to move around on holiday

There are several means of transportation to reach and explore Ecuador. If you are coming from another country, the best way to reach Ecuador is by air. There are several international airlines that offer flights to the capital city of Quito and to Guayaquil, the largest city in Ecuador.
Once you are in Ecuador, the most popular means of transportation to visit different cities and attractions are: 1. Buses: Ecuador has a reliable and extensive network of buses that connect all major cities and destinations in the country. The buses are comfortable and affordable, making them the most popular means of transportation for both locals and tourists.
2. Taxis: Taxis are a convenient and affordable way to get around in Ecuador, especially in the cities. Always use official licensed taxis and agree on the fare before getting in.
3. Trains: Ecuador has a few scenic train routes that offer a unique and unforgettable travel experience. The most popular one is the Nariz del Diablo (Devil’s Nose) train that takes you through the Andean mountains and passes through spectacular landscapes.
4. Domestic flights: If you are short on time or want to explore some remote parts of Ecuador, you can take domestic flights. Air travel is relatively inexpensive in Ecuador, and there are several airlines that operate daily flights to different parts of the country. It's always a good idea to research and plan your transportation options in advance to make your trip smoother and more enjoyable. To hire a car to visit Ecuador, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Ecuador: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Ecuador with a full stomach:D
Here are some typical foods of Ecuador: 1. Ceviche: A popular seafood dish made with raw shrimp or fish marinated in lime juice, onions, and cilantro. It is usually served with popcorn or chifles (plantain chips).
2. Llapingachos: A traditional dish made with mashed potatoes that are stuffed with cheese and then fried. It is typically served with peanut sauce, avocado, and chorizo.
3. Seco de chivo: A slow-cooked stew made with goat meat, onions, tomatoes, garlic, and cilantro, served with rice and potatoes.
4. Fanesca: A soup made with 12 types of grains and beans, including corn, lentils, peas, peanuts, and fava beans. It is traditionally served during Holy Week (Easter) in Ecuador.
5. Empanadas: A savory pastry usually filled with cheese, meat, or vegetables. They are fried or baked and commonly served as appetizers or snacks.
6. Hornado: A roasted pork dish served with potatoes, mote (hominy corn), and llapingachos. It is a popular food during holidays and festivities in Ecuador.
7. Churrasco: A grilled steak served with rice, beans, fried plantains, and a fried egg. It is a hearty and filling meal commonly found in restaurants throughout Ecuador.
I hope this helps you!

Ecuador: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Ecuador can be relatively inexpensive for tourists compared to other destinations in South America. Accommodation, food, and transportation can be affordable, especially if you are budget-conscious and willing to stay in hostels or guesthouses, eat local street food, and take public transportation.
However, some activities and attractions, such as Galapagos Islands tours or adventure sports like mountain climbing or white-water rafting, can be more expensive. It ultimately depends on the type of trip you want to plan and the activities that you prefer.

Ecuador: where to find accodation

There are several accommodation options available in Ecuador, ranging from budget hostels to luxury hotels and resorts. Here are some popular options to look for: 1. Hostels: Hostels are a great option for budget travelers. Hostelworld, Hostelbookers, and Booking.com are good websites to search for hostels in Ecuador.
2. Hotels: Ecuador is home to several chain hotels such as Marriott, Hilton, and Sheraton. You can also find independent hotels on Travelocity, Expedia, and Kayak.
3. Airbnb: Airbnb is a popular platform for short-term rental apartments and homes in Ecuador. You can book a private room or an entire apartment or house on their website.
4. Eco-lodges: Ecuador is known for its ecotourism offerings, and eco-lodges are a way to experience the country's beautiful natural surroundings. Websites like Eco-lodge Adventures and Ecolodges Ecuador are great places to find eco-lodges.
5. Haciendas: For a unique experience, you can stay in haciendas, which are traditional Spanish colonial estates that have been converted into hotels. Hacienda San Agustin de Callo and Hacienda Zuleta are two popular haciendas in Ecuador.
It's always a good idea to read reviews from previous guests before booking any accommodation to ensure you make the best choice for your needs and preferences.
You can check hotel prices in Ecuador here:
Booking.com

Ecuador: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
According to the Ministry of Tourism of Ecuador, in 2019 the country received approximately 2.1 million international tourists. However, due to the global pandemic, this number has decreased significantly since 2020. In terms of crowded periods, the high season for tourism in Ecuador is generally from June to August and again from December to January. During these months, some popular destinations like the Galapagos Islands, beaches, and Andean peaks can get quite busy. It's always a good idea to plan and book your trips in advance during these periods to avoid any inconveniences.
Ecuador is generally a safe country for tourists, but like any destination, it's important to take precautions and use common sense. The most common types of crime that occur in Ecuador are petty theft and pickpocketing, especially in touristy areas like Quito's historic center.
There are a few places that should be avoided or approached with caution due to safety concerns including Esmeraldas, the northern border with Colombia, and some parts of Quito's southern districts.
It's also a good idea to be cautious when using ATMs, carrying large amounts of cash, or traveling alone at night. But by following basic safety guidelines and staying aware of your surroundings, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Ecuador.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Ecuador on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Ecuador: events for tourists

There are many interesting events for tourists in Ecuador throughout the year. Here are some of the most popular events: 1. Inti Raymi - Celebrated in June, it is the sun festival of the indigenous peoples of the Andes. This event is dedicated to the sun god and includes parades, music, and dance.
2. Carnival - It is celebrated before Lent and is one of the biggest events in the country. During this event, people celebrate with water fights, parades, music, and dancing.
3. Fiesta de la Mama Negra - This event takes place in November in the town of Latacunga. It is a celebration of the Virgin of Mercedes, and it includes a parade of dancing and colorful costumes.
4. Independence Day - This event takes place on August 10th and is a celebration of Ecuador's independence from Spain. It includes parades, music, and fireworks.
5. Day of the Dead - Celebrated on November 2nd, it is a day when families remember their loved ones who have passed away. Many towns have parades and gatherings where people dress up in costumes and make offerings to their ancestors.
These are just a few of the many events in Ecuador that are popular among tourists.

Ecuador: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Ecuador, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Sure, here's a recommended two-week travel itinerary for Ecuador: Day 1-2: Quito - Start your trip in Quito, the capital city of Ecuador. Explore the charming old town, visit the impressive Basilica del Voto Nacional cathedral, and take a cable car up to Pichincha Volcano for stunning views.
Day 3-4: Otavalo - Head to Otavalo, a small town two hours north of Quito famous for its market and textiles. Visit the bustling Saturday market, explore the surrounding countryside, and take a day trip to the Cuicocha crater lake.
Day 5-6: Mindo - Travel to Mindo, a cloud forest town two hours west of Quito. Go birdwatching, hike to waterfalls, and take a thrilling canopy zip-line tour.
Day 7-8: Baños - Continue your journey to Baños, a charming town in the Andes Mountains known for its hot springs and outdoor adventures. Take a dip in the thermal pools, go rafting on the river, and hike to the cascading Pailón del Diablo waterfall.
Day 9-10: Cuenca - Fly to Cuenca, a picturesque colonial city in southern Ecuador. Stroll through the historic center, visit the impressive Catedral de la Inmaculada Concepcion, and explore the nearby Cajas National Park.
Day 11-12: Guayaquil - Travel to Guayaquil, Ecuador's largest city and main commercial hub. Walk along the Malecón 2000 boardwalk, visit the historic La Perla neighborhood, and explore the Parque Histórico Guayaquil.
Day 13-14: Galapagos Islands - Finish your trip with a visit to the Galapagos Islands, a bucket list destination known for its unique wildlife and stunning natural beauty. Take a cruise or island hopping tour, snorkel with sea lions and turtles, and marvel at the giant tortoises.
This itinerary includes a mix of Ecuador's stunning natural beauty, charming colonial cities, and unique cultural experiences. Of course, you can customize it to your own interests and preferences.

Ecuador: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Ecuador described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Ayampe is a small coastal town located on the southern coast of Ecuador, about 170 km (105 mi) northwest of Guayaquil. It is known for its beautiful beach and quaint, laid-back atmosphere. Many travel... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ayampe
- Ayangue is a small fishing village located on the central coast of Ecuador, known for its beautiful bay, clear waters, and a wide variety of marine life, making it a popular destination for snorkeling... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ayangue
- Bahía de Caráquez is a coastal town located in the province of Manabi, Ecuador. It is known for its beautiful beaches, mangrove forests and estuaries, as well as its rich cultural heritage. The town h... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bahía de Caráquez
- Baños is a small town located in the central Andean region of Ecuador, about 3 hours south of Quito. It is famous for its hot springs, scenic landscapes, and adventure activities such as hiking, mount... CONTINUE here for a trip to Baños
- Canoa is a small coastal town located in the Manabi Province of Ecuador. It is known for its beautiful beaches, surfing opportunities, and laid-back atmosphere. The town is situated on a long sandy be... CONTINUE here for a trip to Canoa
- Chone is a city located in the province of Manabi, Ecuador. It is known for its agricultural production of tropical fruits, such as pineapples, bananas, and watermelons. The city also has a rich cultu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chone
- Coca is a city located in the northeast region of Ecuador, in the province of Orellana. It serves as the capital of both Orellana province and the surrounding Amazon Rainforest region. The city is hom... CONTINUE here for a trip to Coca
- Cotopaxi is an active stratovolcano located in the Andes Mountains of Ecuador. It is the second highest mountain in the country, reaching a height of 5,897 meters (19,347 feet) above sea level. The vo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Cotopaxi
- Cuenca is a city located in the southern highlands of Ecuador, surrounded by the Andes mountains. It is known for its historical architecture, rich culture, and beautiful landscapes. Cuenca is recogni... CONTINUE here for a trip to Cuenca
- El Chaco is a canton located in the province of Napo in Ecuador. It is situated in the Amazon Rainforest and is known for its rich biodiversity, as well as for being the main point of entry to the Yas... CONTINUE here for a trip to El Chaco
- El Ángel is a town located in the northern part of Ecuador, in the province of Carchi. It is known for its unique and stunning landscape, featuring a high-altitude grassland known as the páramo. This ... CONTINUE here for a trip to El Ángel
- Esmeraldas is a province located on the northwestern coast of Ecuador. It is known for its beautiful beaches, warm climate, and rich Afro-Ecuadorian culture. The capital city, also named Esmeraldas, i... CONTINUE here for a trip to Esmeraldas
- The Galapagos are an archipelago of islands located about 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador in South America. The islands are famous for their unique and diverse wildlife, including giant tortoises, ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Galapagos
- Guaranda is a small city located in the central Andean region of Ecuador, at an altitude of around 2,650 meters above sea level. It is the capital of Bolívar Province and also known as the "City of th... CONTINUE here for a trip to Guaranda
- Guayaquil is the largest and most populous city in Ecuador, located on the shores of the Guayas River in the western part of the country. It is known as the economic and commercial capital of Ecuador,... CONTINUE here for a trip to Guayaquil
- La Libertad is a coastal city located in the province of Santa Elena, in southwestern Ecuador. It is known for its beautiful beaches such as Salinas, Punta Blanca and Ballenita, which are popular tour... CONTINUE here for a trip to La Libertad
- Loja is a city located in the southern Andes of Ecuador, in the province of Loja. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, beautiful colonial architecture, and stunning natural landscapes. Loja has... CONTINUE here for a trip to Loja
- Macas is a city located in the eastern part of Ecuador, in the province of Morona Santiago. It is situated in the Andean foothills and is surrounded by lush forests, rivers, and mountains. The city ha... CONTINUE here for a trip to Macas
- Machala is a city located in the southern coast of Ecuador, in the province of El Oro. It is known as the "Banana Capital of the World" due to its important role in the country's banana industry. The ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Machala
- Manta is a coastal city located in the Manabí province on the western coast of Ecuador. It is known as one of the most important ports in the country, with a bustling fishing industry and commercial a... CONTINUE here for a trip to Manta
- Mindo is a small town located in the cloud forest region of Ecuador, about two hours northwest of Quito. The town is surrounded by lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and an incredible diversity of fl... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mindo
- Montañita is a small village located in the province of Santa Elena, on the southwestern coast of Ecuador. It is known as one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country, famous for its be... CONTINUE here for a trip to Montañita
- Otavalo is a small town located in the northern Andes of Ecuador, about two hours north of Quito. It is known for its indigenous market, which has been taking place every Saturday for hundreds of year... CONTINUE here for a trip to Otavalo
- Playa de los Frailes is a stunning and secluded beach located on the coast of Ecuador, specifically within Machalilla National Park. It's considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Ecuador and is... CONTINUE here for a trip to Playa de los Frailes
- Playas is a coastal town in the province of Guayas, Ecuador. It is situated on the Pacific Ocean and is known for its beautiful beaches and warm climate. Playas is a popular destination for tourists b... CONTINUE here for a trip to Playas
- Puerto Ayora is the largest town on the Galapagos Islands, located on the southern coast of Santa Cruz Island in Ecuador. It is known for its abundant wildlife and as a popular destination for tourist... CONTINUE here for a trip to Puerto Ayora
- Puerto Baquerizo Moreno is a town located on the island of San Cristobal, which is part of the Galapagos Islands in Ecuador. It is the capital of the Galapagos province and has a population of approxi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno
- Puerto Bolívar is a port town on the coast of Ecuador, located in the province of El Oro. It is known for being one of the largest fishing ports in the country and a major hub for the export of shrimp... CONTINUE here for a trip to Puerto Bolívar
- Puerto El Carmen is a small coastal town located in the province of Manabí, Ecuador. It is known for its long, sandy beaches and clear waters, making it a popular destination for swimming, surfing, an... CONTINUE here for a trip to Puerto El Carmen
- Puerto Francisco de Orellana, also known as El Coca, is a city in the eastern part of Ecuador in the province of Orellana. It is the capital of the province and one of the main gateways to Ecuador's A... CONTINUE here for a trip to Puerto Francisco de Orellana
- Puerto Lopez is a coastal town located in the Manabí Province of Ecuador. It is situated near the Machalilla National Park and is known for its beautiful beaches, whale watching opportunities, and fre... CONTINUE here for a trip to Puerto Lopez
- Puerto López is a coastal town located in the Manabí province, Ecuador. It is known for its beautiful beaches, lively fishing community, and its proximity to the Machalilla National Park. It is a popu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Puerto López
- Puerto Quito is a town located in the northwestern region of Ecuador, in the province of Pichincha. It is situated approximately 100 km from Quito, the capital city of Ecuador. Puerto Quito has a trop... CONTINUE here for a trip to Puerto Quito
- Puerto Villamil is a small town located on Isabela Island, the largest island of the Galapagos archipelago in Ecuador. It is known for its beautiful white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and dive... CONTINUE here for a trip to Puerto Villamil
- Punta Carnero is a popular coastal town located in the province of Santa Elena, Ecuador. It is situated about 15 kilometers from Salinas and about 6 kilometers from La Libertad. This town is known for... CONTINUE here for a trip to Punta Carnero
- Puyo is a city in central Ecuador, located in the eastern part of the country in the province of Pastaza. It has a population of around 24,000 inhabitants and it is situated at an altitude of 960 mete... CONTINUE here for a trip to Puyo
- Quito is the capital and the largest city of Ecuador, located in the Northern Andes mountain range at an altitude of 2,850 meters above sea level. The city has a rich history and cultural heritage, an... CONTINUE here for a trip to Quito
- Riobamba is a medium-sized city located in the central Andean region of Ecuador, at an altitude of approximately 2,750 meters (9,000 feet) above sea level. It is surrounded by several active volcanoes... CONTINUE here for a trip to Riobamba
- Salango is a small fishing village located in the province of Manabí, Ecuador. It is known for its beautiful beaches and its close proximity to the Machalilla National Park. Salango is also an importa... CONTINUE here for a trip to Salango
- Salinas is a coastal town located in the Santa Elena province in southwestern Ecuador. It is known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and warm climate. Salinas is a popular tourist destination a... CONTINUE here for a trip to Salinas
- San Cristobal is a small island in the Galapagos archipelago, located off the coast of Ecuador. It is one of the oldest and most populated islands in the region, with a population of about 6,000 peopl... CONTINUE here for a trip to San Cristobal
- San Vicente is a small city located on the coast of Ecuador, in the province of Manabí. It has about 20,000 inhabitants and is known for its beautiful beaches, such as Canoa and San Vicente, where you... CONTINUE here for a trip to San Vicente
- Santa Cruz is one of the islands that make up the Galapagos archipelago located in Ecuador. It is the second largest island after Isabela and has a population of around 12,000 people. The island is kn... CONTINUE here for a trip to Santa Cruz
- Santa Rosa is a small town located in the province of El Oro in southwestern Ecuador. It has a population of approximately 15,000 people and is known for its traditional Ecuadorian culture and customs... CONTINUE here for a trip to Santa Rosa
- Tena is a small city located in the Napo province of Ecuador. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, including dense rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and winding rivers. Tena is considered the... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tena
- Vilcabamba is a small town located in the southern Andes Mountains of Ecuador. It is known for its beautiful natural surroundings, mild climate, and reputedly for the longevity of its residents. The t... CONTINUE here for a trip to Vilcabamba


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