Ecuador is a beautiful country with lots to do and see. Every place you go will have a different set of customs, wildlife, languages, and foods. There are four areas in Ecuador, and almost 16 million people live there.
Jazmin is from Ecuador, and she showed us around the country. We went to the Amazon Rainforest, the Galapagos, the highlands, and the coast. We get asked by a lot of people where they should go in Ecuador. So, we decided to make a list of the best places to go in Ecuador and what to do there.
Quilotoa Loop
After a day full of ups and downs, you might need a quiet walk through the mountains to think things over. If you’re going to Ecuador, you have to see this amazing loop. It connects several hiking trails that go through remote Andean villages and give you beautiful views of the famous crater lake.
You can, of course, take a bus to shorten your hike and see the villages, but we wouldn’t recommend it because you’ll miss out on the beautiful views. If you want to do some shopping during your hike, you can always stop at one of the villages’ flea markets.
Otavalo
This place in Ecuador will show you how important it is to go shopping while on vacation. In these busy markets, you can buy hand-made crafts, leather goods, jewellery, and a wide range of textiles that are popular in Andes city.
It is the most popular spot for photographers because they can get unique pictures of people wearing traditional clothes and snow-capped mountains in the background. If you come on a Saturday, you can enjoy the lively atmosphere of the main market. You can also buy handmade items in the Plaza de los Ponchos, even if the markets aren’t there.
Galapagos Island
Have you heard about these islands? Well, if you haven’t been there yet, here’s your chance to see for yourself. What better way to learn about the beautiful Galápagos Islands, which are in the eastern Pacific Ocean and have their own unique ecosystem?
Even though it won’t be hard to see penguins, sea lions, and iguanas in the area, some parts of the national park are off-limits because of measures taken to keep it in good shape. But the good news is that you can go with a licenced tour guide and have a refreshing experience with nature.
Mindo
When you’re in a good mood, a mountain village like Mindo in the Andes will never let you down. When a relaxing vacation in nature isn’t enough for some travellers, places like Mindo offer exciting things to do to spice up your trip! There are many fun things to do, like rafting, mountain biking, hiking, and horseback riding.
In addition to watching birds, El Quetzal del Mindo is also a great place to learn how chocolate is made. Enjoying the natural beauty of this place, which has farmland, several streams, and three main rivers, is a great way to spend a family trip.
Cuenca
This one is well-known for the festivals it holds in November and January. When you go to this city, you’ll see interesting old buildings from the colonial era, like houses with balconies, streets with cobblestones, and white churches that look old. This is one of the things that makes this city a pleasure to get around mostly on foot.
Still, you should check out the Old and New Cathedrals of Cuenca, the Church of San Sebastian, and the Museum of Religious Arts in this colourful city, which is also a World Heritage Site. If you’re interested in history, this will be your favourite place to visit in Ecuador.
Guayaquil
Guayaquil is the most populated city in Ecuador. It is often thought of as the country’s commercial hub because there are so many places to shop and eat there. The famous Malecon 2000, a boardwalk along the peaceful Guayas river, is a great way to end your busy tour.
The Parque Historico Guayaqui also has a number of historical sites that you can visit for free. When tourists go to the Museo Antropológico y de Arte Contemporáneo, which shows off the country’s famous culture and long history, it can be a lot to take in.
Quito
Why did they choose Quito? Well, you can’t miss the famous capital city, which is another World Heritage Site with public squares, big museums with lots to learn, and churches that are almost 200 years old. Palaces like the Carondolet Palace and the Presidential Palace stand tall and proud in the city.
They are well-known for being old and grand buildings that show how architecture used to look. You can also stop by Archbishop’s Palace and Municipal Palace on your way to famous churches and cathedrals in Quito, such as Baslica del Voto Nacional and La Compania de Jesus Church.
Nariz Del Diablo
The Devil’s Nose, or Nariz del Diablo, is a restored railway in Riobamba that runs along the routes that lead to the most beautiful views of the Andes in the country. Some people also think of it as a must-do item on their bucket lists.
Between the towns of Aluasi and Sibambe, where the train starts its journey, there are some of the most beautiful views. The train goes all the way up to the station, crossing the vertical sides of the mountains. Around this route of the devil’s nose, you can also go to the Puuna Condor Museum. Are you with us?
Banos
Even though Banos is a small town, it is one of the most popular tourist spots in Ecuador because it has several hot springs. At the bottom of an active volcano called Tungurahua, this place has some of the most beautiful places to visit in all of Ecuador.
Several waterfalls flow down to the river from this place. Due to its location at the corner of the Amazon basin, some fun things to do there are mountain biking and hiking. Try the famous candy called “melcocha” while you’re shopping for things to bring back home. In these markets, you can often find a colourful balsa parrot.
Salinas
The beach in Salinas is known as “Little Miami Beach” because there are a lot of high-rise condos along the shore. This beach is popular among surfers and people with yachts. This is the most hidden place in Ecuador.
If you want to spend more time in the sun and sand while you’re there, this is the best place to go. The best time to visit this beach paradise is in December and January, but the weather is nice here all year long, so you might want to pack light. You might also see sea turtles laying eggs near the shore while you’re at the beach.
Guamote
You should go to Guamote if you want to get away from the noise and chaos of the city and have a peaceful trip. You will be amazed by the beautiful scene of mud-brick homes and block buildings. It’s also known for its Thursday market, where you can buy unique souvenirs like trinkets, dresses with lots of colours, and more. It’s one of the most interesting places to visit in Ecuador.
Tena
Tena is the place to go for a unique vacation where you can step into the wild and get away from the noise of the city. Tena is a small town on the edge of the Amazon basin. Its beautiful scenery brings in a lot of backpackers.