Beaches, wildlife, mountains, jungles, volcanoes, tradition, meals, and historical past. With 4 very distinctive areas in a single nation, lovely Ecuador has every part you want and extra. We’re sharing a few of our high points of interest (and what it is best to do there!) all through the Andes, Amazon, Galápagos Islands, and Pacific Coast.
The Andes
1: Quito
Standing tall on the Andean foothills at 2,850m above sea stage sits Quito, the capital of Ecuador. Identified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the town simply warrants a go to of at the least 2-3 days, if not longer. Explore one of the best preserved Old Town in Latin America, take within the huge metropolis views from the Basilica Del Voto Nacional, and take pleasure in a tasty Empanada de Viento. Quito is a surprising place full of artwork, historical past, meals, and better of all, pleasant and welcoming folks. It’s the proper cease to discover and use as a leaping off level to get to the remainder of Ecuador.
2: Cuenca
If you’re within the temper for colonial structure, wealthy tradition, and completely scrumptious delicacies, you’ll discover all that and extra within the vibrant metropolis of Cuenca. The greatest option to discover is to seize your digicam and aimlessly wander. Meander to the Cathedral of Immaculate Conception and take within the gorgeous blue domes, get pleasure from an ice cream whereas people-watching in Calderon Park, and go to the Panama Hat Museum, the place you’ll uncover the true origin of the long-lasting straw fedora. (Hint: It’s a product of Ecuador.)
3: Cotopaxi
Lace up your mountain climbing boots and head over to Cotopaxi National Park to see one of many highest lively volcanoes on this planet. Take in views of the snow-capped mountains and spend simply over an hour strolling the Laguna Limpiopungo path. Keep an eye fixed out for big herds of untamed horses and as much as 15 totally different species of birds together with migrating waterfowl.
The Amazon
4: Amazon Jungle
Spanning eight international locations, together with Ecuador, is the Amazon rainforest. Everything about its 1.6 billion acres of dense forest is spectacular together with that it’s residence to thousands and thousands – sure, thousands and thousands – of species together with pink dolphins, jaguars, and sloths. Add to that the hundreds of crops, fish, and reptiles that decision it residence and also you’ve acquired a wildlife recognizing bonanza. We may go on with information and figures however it’s greatest to study it in individual by staying in rustic huts, communing with the native folks, and soaking within the pure abundance.
5: Tena
The gateway to exploring the Amazon Jungle is thru Tena. Relatively accessible from Quito, it’s the capital of the Napo Province and a spot you don’t wish to neglect your rain gear or sense of journey. Go on jungle walks, chase these waterfalls, and expertise a shamanic therapeutic ceremony. An absolute must-do when visiting Tena is canoeing over to the amaZOOnico Animal Rescue Centre. It’s a rehabilitation centre for wild animals who’re victims of unlawful trafficking. The staff cares for greater than 200 turtles, monkeys, toucans, and different native wildlife, and your go to helps get them wholesome and again to their pure properties.
6: Baños
Not your common playground swing, La Casa del Arbol is the place to go if you wish to Swing on the End of the World. Originally constructed to be a watch tower for Tungurahua (one other lively volcano), you may swing to your coronary heart’s content material whereas overlooking the gorgeous Ecuadorian valley. This will not be the one motive to go to Baños although. Situated between the Andes mountains and the Amazon rainforest, it’s residence to dozens of waterfalls, scorching springs, and rivers. One of essentially the most well-known waterfalls being Cascada el Pailón del Diablo, or the Devil’s Cauldron Waterfall. Prepare to get somewhat moist as large quantities of water explode off the mountain edge, however we promise, it’s value it.
The Galápagos Islands
7: Galápagos Islands
A hop, skip, and a 2.5 hour flight from Quito lands you proper in one of the crucial extraordinary locations on earth. An animal-lovers paradise, the Galápagos are identified for an unimaginable variety of wildlife. Think blue-footed boobies, big tortoises, sea lions, iguanas, flamingos, finches, and a whole lot of species of fish. The greatest option to see all of those animals? Your choices are ample: stroll the paths at Darwin Bay, snorkel at Isabela island, and discover the pink sand seashores of Rábida. Plus, our high tip for visiting: spend time studying concerning the conservation efforts to guard the islands and its inhabitants from invasive species, air pollution, overfishing, and local weather change.
The Pacific Coast
8: The Pacific Coast
In order to actually expertise each attraction Ecuador has to supply, begin or finish your journey with a jump over to coastal gems like Guayaquil, Salinas, Esmeraldas, Montañita, and Machalilla. A mixture of tradition and breathtaking seashores, the Pacific Coast fills your lungs with salty air and your thoughts with infinite reminiscences. Explore the colourful metropolis of Guayaquil, lounge on golden sand seashores in Salinas, indulge your style buds within the contemporary delicacies of Esmeraldas, good your browsing abilities on the waves in Montañita, and take a mud tub within the sulphur lagoon at Agua Blanca in Machalilla National Park.
Getting there
Ready to carry on Ecuador and make unforgettable reminiscences with a small group of recent buddies? Here are our high strategies to benefit from your time:
Highlands of Ecuador
Ecuador Quest
Inland & Amazon
Galápagos – Central and East Islands aboard the Reina Silvia Voyager
Complete Galápagos – Eden