Exploring Ecuador is something that should be on everyone’s travel bucket list! This small country’s tourism industry is expanding rapidly and for good reason. You will be struck by the diversity of wildlife in the Galapagos, awed by the geographic wonders of the volcanoes in the Andes and fall in love with its lush rainforests and tropical beaches. Ecuador is rich in awe inspiring UNESCO sites from its capital Quito to the cultural city of Cuenca and furthermore is rife with world class adventuring experiences from Banos to the Avenue of Volcanoes. Simply put, a trip to Ecuador will not disappoint.
1. The Avenue of Volcanoes
High in the Andes, exploring the Avenue of Volcanoes is an unmissable opportunity for adventure among some of the most active volcanoes in the world. Perhaps the most spectacular of the fourteen volcanoes is Cotopaxi where you can ride horseback or cycle the scenic slopes of the highest active volcano in the world. Dominating the skyline from miles away, Chimborazo is the highest peak in Ecuador. Gazing up at it, there’s no surprise that it’s a strong contender for having the most splendid views in Ecuador. It is also worth stopping here to see the indigenous villages and the local culture living in the shadows of Ecuador’s volcanoes. Cayambe is the third most popular volcano along the route as it has great trekking trails and a beautiful glacier capped peak. The landscape’s undeniable beauty and impressive high altitude volcanoes speak for themselves as to why they’re an unmissable location in Ecuador.
2. The Amazon Rainforest
The largest region in Ecuador is comprised of Amazon Rainforest, known for being the largest, densest rainforest on the planet. Ecuador’s most popular rainforest national park, Yasuni, is said to be the most biodiverse place on Earth. Ecuador has some of the best developed infrastructures for rainforest tourism where visitors can birdwatch, go on jungle treks, fish for piranhas or canoe to best experience the magic of the rainforest. Believe it or not there are many indigenous tribes who still live in the rainforest as they have for centuries. Although two of the tribes remain disconnected by the outside world, many are welcoming to tourists and enjoying sharing their culture. With an unlimited amount of opportunities to amaze you, a journey to the rainforest should be at the top of your Ecuador Bucket list.
3. Cuenca: A Picturesque UNESCO World Heritage Site
Cuenca is a friendly city of perfect weather, that will quickly steal your heart. Often referred to as the “Athens of Ecuador”, it is a charming cultural center for arts and century old tradition. Walking through the town gives you a chance to take in the ornate architecture and romantic atmosphere. The towers of Cuenca’s blue domed Cathedral de la Inmaculada are worth a climb for the views of the historic city center. For a more comprehensive viewpoint of the red roofed city head to Mirador de Turi. From there you might be able to see the rivers running through the city, the expansive flower market, or the endearing Parque Abdon Calderon.
4. The Devil’s Nose Scenic Train Ride
Largely undiscovered, the restored luxury train Devil’s Nose’ or El Nariz Del Diablo is a must see for any rail lovers. It goes through pitch black tunnels, over bridges and takes you past breathtaking waterfalls. However, the highlight of the journey consists of a series of steep and stunning switchbacks; at one point the train actually has to go backwards. This is the Devil’s Nose a.k.a. the most difficult railway feat in the world. This train journey is unique in that tourists used to ride the train roofs for the views journey down the switchback. However it is now only possible to take an open carriage to get the same view. The full train journey takes several days beginning in the Andes descends to the coastal city of Guayaquil. We highly recommend staying overnight in the little towns that the train goes through to help split up the journey.
5. The Country’s Capital: Quito
You will likely visit Quito at some point in your Ecuador travels as it is the major transportation hub of Ecuador. Otherwise known as the capital in the clouds, its high altitude gives the city access to clear mountain air and generous views in every direction. Expansive green spaces and parks are interwoven into the cityscape itself. However, the biggest draw to Quito is arguably the historic “Old Town”. It is full of well preserved 16th century colonial buildings including museums and stained glass cathedrals that make it easy to see why Quito was one of the world’s first UNESCO sites. Its cobbled streets are lined with markets, which selection includes an array of Ecuador’s world famous chocolates, and all sorts of brightly colored handwoven scarves, and baskets.
6. The Galapagos Islands
No one should leave Ecuador without seeing the biodiversity on the Galapagos Islands, made famous by the biologist Charles Darwin. These islands host a plethora of animals including giant tortoises, slippery sea lions, penguins, seals, dolphins and whales to just name a few. Many species such as the renowned blue footed boobies are found nowhere else in the world. It is because of this incredible biodiversity that 97% of the islands are protected and pristine national park. With no natural predators, the wildlife are unafraid of humans and often curiously approach visitors. Surrounded by such a concentration of unique animals on otherworldly islands, visiting the Galapagos Islands is truly an experience like none other.
7. Baños: The Adventure Capital
It’s only suiting that Baños, the adventure capital of Ecuador, is found at the convergence of several active volcanoes. Ten minutes outside Cuenca, here are found endless adrenaline pumping activities. Whether you want to swing at the end of the world, raft some thunderous rapids, zip line through rainforest canopy, or canyon in the splendor of the natural world, Baños has it all. If you are into cycling or waterfalls, we recommend you take a day to explore the 61 km Ruta de las Cascadas where you can ride through 7 different waterfalls and cruise through lush mountainside. If you have already had too much excitement in Baños, make sure to at least see the Pailon Del Diablo. It’s one of the most impressive waterfalls you’ll ever see surrounded by beautiful winding staircases down to its base and the caves behind. Whatever adventures you choose in Baños, wind down afterwards relaxing in the town’s popular hot springs to finish off a memorable full day of adventure
8. Go to the Coastal Town Montanita
Like most South American countries, Ecuador has its fair share of coastline and the coastal towns that come with it. Along “La Ruta Del Sol” or Ecuador’s coastal “Route of the Sun”, Montanita is the most popular beach town stop. It’s a relaxing surf getaway during the day and a popping multicultural party at night. Here you can find plenty of trendy shops, eateries with fresh coconut drinks, and kodak moments. Consider spending an afternoon at Isla de la Plata; a beautiful nature reserve known to be the “Poor man’s Galapagos” or say hello to the abundant marine life in a dive off the coast. After the dark start at the renowned ‘cocktail alley’ where cheap drinks reign supreme and see where the night takes you from there. So whether or not you’re an ocean lover, make sure not to miss this cruisey hippie town.
9. The Staggering Views of Quilotoa Crater
The 13th-century eruption of the Quilotoa volcano created a beautiful crater in which a deep azure blue lake now resides. Most people opt to do the 2-3 day trek but if time can’t afford it, you can take local transportation to the top. Either way, you will be able to stop at the local villages peppered along the route to immerse yourself in some local flavors. As the main draw to this location is the Andean crater’s stunning scenery, make sure to plan for enough time to enjoy the panoramic views from the rim. Once you’ve taken in and enough photos of the volcanic crater’s emerald green water, you can hike down into the crater to walk around the circumference, kayak or swim the azure waters. There you can literally soak in the natural beauty of Ecuador.
10. Otavalo’s Enormous Outdoor Handicraft Market
Get a healthy dose of Ecuadorian culture at La Plaza De Los Ponchos in Otavalo. It is said to be the largest of South America’s vibrant outdoor markets, making Otavalo a premier destination in Ecuador. On Saturdays, entire blocks of the city turn into a rainbow sprawl of shops. There’s only one word to describe this high altitude Andean town with its colorfully dressed inhabitants: photogenic. It’s worth noting that you should be wearing sunscreen if you’ll be outside all day exploring and bartering in this high elevation town. After you finish your souvenir shopping, complete your trip to Otavalo by experiencing nature and visiting the sacred Peguche waterfall standing at 18 m tall. These hot springs are arguably more peaceful and relaxing than the ones in Banos, especially after a bustling day haggling.
Ecuador is often overlooked next to South America’s giant countries but it is overflowing with diversity and has an endless amount of beautiful vistas around every turn. Whether you are looking for fast-paced adventures or relaxing on the beaches of the Galapagos, AdventureHero can help you plan your trip. We hope you enjoyed our post. Please do subscribe to our mailing list for more posts like this!
