Can you imagine to climb a volcano in the morning and dine in the jungle or on the beach in the evening? It is possible in Ecuador. Ecuador is surprising, exotic and the diversity is enormous. It is one of the smallest countries in South America, allowing you to experience the most diverse landscapes in a short period of time. And then, there are the unique Galapagos Islands. Besides impressive nature, you will also find plenty of cultural things to do, nice cities, authentic villages, local markets and friendly people in Ecuador. In this article you will find an extensive list of what to do in Ecuador, places of interest and lots of insider tips. I also tell you more about the best time to travel and safety in Ecuador.
- Welcome to Ecuador
- Discover the best things to do in Ecuador – 30 tips
- Things to do in Quito Euador
- The Cotopaxi volcano – top things to do in Ecuador
- The markets
- Quilotoa Lake – top things to do in Ecuador
- The Chimborazo volcano
- Discover Cuenca and its many things to do
- Otavalo
- Look for spectacled bears
- Cuicocha Lake
- Take a picture on the equator
- El Cajas National Park – things to do around Cuenca in Ecuador
- Train El Nariz del Diabo (devil's nose)
- Outdoor paradise Banos
- Pailon del Diablo – top things to do in Banos Ecuador
- Discover the cloud forest of Ecuador
- Things to do in the Amazon of Ecuador
- Things to do + tips for Ecuador's coast
- The Galapagos islands – top things to do in Ecuador
- Cultural activities and things to do in Ecuador
- Mini travel guide + tips for Ecuador
- More about Ecuador
Welcome to Ecuador
Ecuador was the first country I visited at the age of eighteen, during an exchange and language course. Not to know that dozens of visits would follow in the following years. As a television producer I have made countless reports in this diverse country and as a tour guide I have guided countless groups around. Ecuador steals your heart faster than you realize. Even though Ecuador has not always been in the news positively lately, you can still visit most parts of the country. I can’t wait to tell you more about what to do in Ecuador, with numerous tips and places of interest.
Discover the best things to do in Ecuador – 30 tips
Ecuador has enormous flora and fauna thanks to its geography divided into four regions: the Andes, Amazon, Coastal and Galápagos Islands. In Ecuador you can travel from the mountains to the coast or jungle in just one day. To keep the article clear, I have kept the above division and you will find my tips for things to do per region in Ecuador.
Things to do in Quito Euador
Quito is for many people the start of a trip through Ecuador. The capital lies in a valley of the Andes Mountains and is surrounded by sixteen volcanoes. As in many South American capitals, Quito has different faces; a beautiful colonial center, wealthy neighborhoods in the north, middle class neighborhoods in the south and slums.
Quito offers numerous attractions and is a city where you can easily spend a few days. You can stroll through the colonial center, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, visit viewpoints and churches, get inspired in museums and eat in good restaurants.
Curious about what to do in Quito? In my Quito city guide you will find all my tips for things to do in Quito Ecuador.
Hotel tips Quito Ecuador
The Cotopaxi volcano – top things to do in Ecuador
If you read or see anything about Ecuador, chances are that you will see the Cotopaxi volcano. With 5900 meters, this is the highest active volcano in the world and therefore one of the most famous things to do in Ecuador. The Cotopaxi National Park consists of 32,000 hectares of national park and because of the different altitudes you are always in a different area. From the snow line, through the paramo – the area above the tree line – to deep green pine forests.
There are several ways to experience the volcano. For example, you can drive to Lake Limpiopungo and take a scenic hike here. You can also hike from the snow line, located at 4500 meters, to 4864 meters. A tough hike at altitude, covering only 1.5 kilometers in 45 minutes. Want to experience Cotopaxi National Park in a spectacular way? Then don’t miss the mountain bike tour. You will then cycle down, from an altitude of 4,500 meters through the National Park. And if you are lucky, you might even spot a fox or deer along the way.
Want to visit the Cotopoxi volcano? Book a day tour from Quito here.
Hotel tips Cotopaxi Ecuador
The markets
When in Ecuador, a visit to one of the many colorful markets should not be missed. Of course you will find markets dedicated to souvenirs and handicrafts such as in Otavalo in Ecuador, but one of the top attractions is a visit to a cattle market. Cars carrying pigs and cows maneuver through large crowds of people and countless animals. While people in traditional costumes, alternating with men in large jogging suits drag bulls, piglets, sheep and other livestock with them. You have to prepare for this a little bit mentally, as the animals are not always threated the way, we are used to. But this is everyday life in the Andes, a different world that we visitors enter for just a day.
Ecuador market tips: There is a market in Guamote and Saquisili on Thursdays, and in Cayambe and Calpi on Saturdays.
Quilotoa Lake – top things to do in Ecuador
Quilotoa is a crater lake, located in the Andes Mountains of Ecuador, known for its beautiful turquoise color. The lake has a diameter of up to 3 kilometers and is said to have a depth of at least 250 meters. You can take a short walk along the lake and enjoy the views. You can also hike to the lake shore and experience the area from the water, by taking a boat ride. Just keep in mind that you also have to go back up the mountain. You are at almost 3900 meters in altitude so everything takes just a little more effort than normal.
Want to visit Quilotoa from Quito? Book your day tour here.
Quilotoa loop
Are you a hiker? Then you’ll want to hike the Quilotoa loop, one of the most beautiful multi-day treks that Ecuador has to offer. Over three days, and two nights in simple yet comfortable hotels, the trail takes you from Sigchos, through Isinlivi and Chugchilan to the crater lake of Quilotoa. You will hike four to five hours a day, something that can be tough due to the altitude but doable for anyone in good shape. You can spend the first night at Hostal Llulu Lama and the second night at Hostal Cloud Forest or Hostal El Vaquero. On day 3 you will reach the lake and spend the night in Quilotoa or continue your journey to your next destination.
Curious about the Quilotoa loop? You can book your tour here.
The Chimborazo volcano
At 6300 meters, the Chimborazo is the highest volcano in Ecuador and known as “El Coloso de los Andes.” And this nickname is not out of place. On a clear day, this giant can be seen from afar. The good thing is that this volcano is quite easy to visit. You can rent a car and drive up the volcano to 4800 meters altitude. Different tours are offered. It is possible to hike from 4800 meters to 5000 meters altitude, a trip that is very intense due to the altitude. An even more adventurous way is a bicycle tour. From 4800 meters, you cycle down through the Chimborazo National Park and experience the landscape very differently.
Want to know more? In the next article you will find my tips for visiting the Chimborazo volcano in Ecuador.
Hotel tips Chimborazo Ecuador
Discover Cuenca and its many things to do
Cuenca is perhaps the most beautiful city in Ecuador. This second city of the country is located at an altitude of 2500 meters in the province of Azuay, in the south of the country. In Cuenca you will still find the splendor of Spanish colonization but with a typical South American atmosphere. People in traditional costumes alternate the street scene with people in suits and young hipsters. Cuenca has also been declared a world heritage site by UNESCO. In the center, you walk through cobblestone streets, past plazas, grand cathedrals, museums, local crafts and viewpoints. Cuenca also lends itself as a perfect base for scenic tours of the area.
Curious about Cuenca? In the next article you will find my tips for things to do in Cuenca in Ecuador.
Hotel tips Cuenca Ecuador
Otavalo
One of the most famous things to do in Ecuador is undoubtedly the colorful town of Otavalo, because of its weekly market and traditional weaving techniques. On Saturdays, the Plaza de Ponchos is filled with stalls where people display their wares. There are hats, embroidered ponchos, warm alpaca scarves, belts and bags, in the colors so typical of the Andean countries. And all for small prices. Moreover, in Otavalo you will get to know the local people and their crafts. Otavalo is a two-hour drive from Quito and can easily be visited as a day tour from Quito.
Otavalo and its surroundings have a lot to offer. Curious? In this article you will find my tips for things to do in Otavalo Ecuador.
Hotel tips Otavalo Ecuador
Look for spectacled bears
Did you know that Ecuador’s Andes Mountains are the habitat of the spectacled bear, the only bear species living in South America? It is estimated that around 3,000 spectacled bears live in Ecuador. Want to spot these animals in the wild? Then visit El Mirador del Oso Andino, near the village of Pimampiro. Because of the amount of bushes and available food, this is the perfect place for the spectacled bear.
From the viewpoint you can look out over the area with binoculars. You can also take a hike with a local guide and try to observe the bears up close. The best time to spot spectacled bears is during sunrise or sunset, when it is cool.
Do you also want to visit El Mirador de Oso Andino? Then Otavalo and Hacienda Piman are a good starting point? In the next article I’ll tell you more about Hacienda Piman and things to do in this region of Ecuador.
Cuicocha Lake
Cuicocha Lake, the lake of the guinea pigs, is a large crater lake, located at 3100 meters altitude at the foot of the Cotacachi volcano in Ecuador. A short hike takes you past several viewpoints, encountering ceremonial sites of indigenous people along the way. You can also take a boat across the lake. A walk around the entire lake is 14 kilometers and takes about 3 to 5 hours, depending on your pace. Cuicocha Lake is best reached from Otavalo or Quito in Ecuador and makes for a nice day trip.
Read more about what to do in Otavalo Ecuador + tips for things to do in the next article.
Take a picture on the equator
In school you learn as a child that the equator runs through Ecuador. El Mitad del Mundo, the center of the world, is therefore perhaps one of the most important things to do in Quito in Ecuador. At the Mitad Del Mundo monument, you can stand with one leg on the northern hemisphere and the other on the southern hemisphere, something that makes for nice pictures. But more interesting is to go to the Intiñan Equator Museum, located a few meters away, where pre-Columbian cultures take center stage and you will learn through experiments how amazing the earth is put together. Mitad del Mundo and Intiñan are an hour’s drive from Quito. A day day trip from Quito can be found here.
El Cajas National Park – things to do around Cuenca in Ecuador
One of the most beautiful natural areas in Ecuador is the Parque Nacional El Cajas. Here you will find more than 270 shimmering lakes and dark pools, located at altitudes between 3100 and 4450 meters, surrounded by paramo, a special vegetation. The fog, which hangs over the area here for large parts of the year, creates a mysterious atmosphere. As if you were in a Lord of the Rings landscape. Cajas National Park is best explored on foot.
Hikes that range, from easy to strenuous and two to six hours, take you past lakes such as Llaviucu, Toreadora, Laguna Totoras, Laguna Patoquinuas and through unusual forests with the Polylepis tree, also called the paper tree. These are reddish trees that look like they are peeling off. Don’t feel like hiking? Then make sure to at least make a photo stop at Tres Cruces, which offers views of the surrounding area.
Do you also want to visit El Cajas National Park? Find a selection of tours here. El Cajas National Park is one of the top attractions around Cuenca, in southern Ecuador. Curious? In the next article you will find my tips for things to do in Cuenca Ecuador.
Train El Nariz del Diabo (devil’s nose)
El Nariz del Diabo is one of the most special train journeys in South America. This is not only because of the impressive views, but also because of the way this train track is built. In fact, the route has gradients of up to 5.5%. At certain points, the train only zigzags down, constantly changing tracks by traveling forward and backward. Trains depart from the town of Alausí and it is important to make reservations in advance. A trip takes about 2.5 hours, including photo stops.
Alausi can be easily reached from Riobamba. In the next article you will find my tips for Riobamba Ecuador. Note: Currently, the El Nariz Del Diablo train ride is closed until further notice.
Outdoor paradise Banos
Banos is a small village, located at the foot of the Tungurahua volcano, on the road from the Andes to the Amazon. It is known for its thermal springs and numerous outdoor activities. It is one of the most popular weekend destinations for Euadorians. You can hike to viewpoints, float in hot springs, visit waterfalls or simply enjoy the impressive nature. Looking for more adventure? There are raft, zipline, canopy and buggytours offered all over Banos that let you experience the area in an adventurous way.
Do you want to visit Banos from Quito? Banos can be reached in as little as 3 hours from Quito. You can book a tour here. Curious about Banos? In the next article you will find all my tips for things to do and see in Banos Ecuador.
Hotel tips Banos Ecuador
Pailon del Diablo – top things to do in Banos Ecuador
One of the most beautiful waterfalls in Ecuador is El Pailón del Diablo. As such, El Pailón del Diablo is one of the main attractions you can visit around the town of Banos. Eighty meters of water plunge into the Pestaza River here. Through a number of suspension bridges and countless steps, you walk towards the waterfall to observee the natural spectacle up close. There are two entrances to El Pailón del Diablo, one route offers better top views and the other offers a better view from below. Keep in mind that there is quite a bit of water coming off the waterfall, so good shoes, a poncho and camera protection are fundamental.
Discover the cloud forest of Ecuador
Mashpi Lodge
Experience ultimate luxury in the middle of nature? Then you’ll want to go to Mashpi Lodge in Ecuador, named one of the most unique lodges in the world by National Geographic. And when you get here, you’ll immediately understand why. Mashpi Lodge is an architectural masterpiece located deep in Ecuador’s cloud forest. It is also part of the protected Mashpi Reserve, a place that thousands of birds, animals, butterflies and plants call home. During your stay, you will go out daily to discover the diverse sides of this special world of flora and fauna.
Do you also want to stay at Mashpi Lodge? You can check the latest prices and availability here.
Bird watching in Mindo
Mindo is surrounded by tropical cloud and rain forests, where you can spot the most exotic bird species. The town is a good starting point for birdwatching tours in the surroundings, where you go out with specialized guides. Want to visit Mindo from Quito? You can book a day trip here.
Bellavista Cloud Forest
Do you love nature and birds? Less than a two hours drive from Quito is Bellavista Cloud Forest, a nature reserve known for its ecosystem and great biodiversity. The area, surrounded by mist and clouds, consists of 400 hectares of tall trees, orchids, bromeliads, frogs and more than 300 species of birds. Bird watchers from all over the world come here to look for unique species and nature lovers to hike. In the middle of this reserve, high on a mountain lies Bellavista Cloud Forest Lodge. A comfortable stay, remote from the outside world, and perfect base to discover Ecuador’s cloud forest and its inhabitants. With your visit you will not only make memories but also contribute directly to the preservation of this place.
Do you also want to stay at Bellavista Cloud Forest Lodge? You can find the latest prices and availability here.
Things to do in the Amazon of Ecuador
Did you know that from Quito you are already within three hours in the Amazon – jungle – of Ecuador? In Ecuador, the Amazon consists of 130,000 square kilometers and almost 50% of the country, with a population percentage of less than 5%. The Amazon in Ecuador has several towns like Coca, Lago Agrio, Tena and Archidona. Some places are easily reached by road and other destinations are best reached by flight. These are my tips for things to do and activities in the Amazon of Ecuador.
Spend the night in a luxury jungle lodge around Coca
For the very best jungle experience, travel to the town of Coca, on the Rio Napo. From here you take a boat to jungle lodges La Selva Jungle Lodge, located on Lake Garzacocha or Sacha Lodge, on Lago Pilchicocha, where luxury and nature come together in a perfect way. You stay in style, enjoy culinary cuisine, and go out daily under the guidance of experts to discover the Ecuadorian Amazon. And it’s all tailor-made and inclusive. Curious about what these lodges have to offer? In the following articles I will tell you more about staying at La Selva Eco-Lodge & Retreat and Sacha Lodge in Ecuador.
From Quito you fly to Coca within an hour. Looking for a plane ticket? Through Skycanner you can easily compare and book your flight.
Do you want to stay at La Selva as well? You can find the latest prices and availability here.
Rafting and kayaking
The area around Archidona and Tena in Ecuador is known for having some of the best rivers for rafting and kayaking. People from all over the world come here to hone their skills or to experience the water for the first time. It probably won’t be a surprise if I tell you that you absolutely need to spend a day on the river while you’re here.
With the team of Kayak Ecuador, you’re in good hands. Owner Santiago began exploring Ecuador’s rivers at a young age and traveled the world to develop his kayak skills further. Today, he runs one of the largest rafting and kayaking companies in the country, welcoming both beginners and professionals. And while you’re working on your skills, make sure to reserve a room at Pacha Ecolodge in Archidona, owned by the same people. It’s a nice place that’s easily accessible from Quito or Cuenca by car or public transportation.
Things to do + tips for Ecuador‘s coast
Whale watching in Puerto López
Always wanted to spot whales? Then you have to visit Puerto López, Ecuador, between June and September. This small fishing village, located on the Pacific Ocean, offers a great chance to see humpback whales, which come very close to the boats. It’s an unforgettable experience. Puerto López is also the base for Machalilla National Park, where you can find beaches like Playa Los Frailes. Curious? You can book a tour here.
Hotel tips Puerto Lopez Ecuador
Isla de la Plata
Don’t have the time or the budget to visit the Galápagos Islands? Isla de La Plata, an hour’s boat ride from Puerto López, is a great alternative. Isla de la Plata is often called the “poor man’s Galápagos” due to bird species like the Booby and Frigatebird that you can spot here. During a tour, guided by a local guide, you’ll visit this uninhabited island and get to know its flora and fauna.
Iguana Park Guayaquil
When you arrive at this small park in Guayaquil, you might not immediately understand why you’re here. But after a few minutes, it becomes clear. In this park, you’re face-to-face with numerous iguanas that have called this park home for many years. These fascinating creatures can captivate your attention for minutes.
Hotel tips Guayaquil Ecuador
The Galapagos islands – top things to do in Ecuador
Swimming with sea turtles, rays, and dolphins, walking along beaches with seal colonies? Seeing a land iguana and giant tortoise up close and marveling at wildlife daily? The Galápagos Islands, located off the coast of Ecuador, are one of the top attractions and things to do in Ecuador. In this paradise, animals don’t see humans as enemies, leading to the most unique experiences you won’t find anywhere else in the world.
Book a cruise
The best way to visit the amazing Galápagos world is by taking a cruise, where you’ll visit several islands over a few days. Alternatively, you can choose to stay in a hotel on one of the islands and take excursions from there. To reach the islands, you need to fly from Quito or Guayaquil. The Galápagos Islands are unique and therefore a costly destination. It is therefore important to prepare your trip well.
Curious about a Galápagos cruise? The next article provides details and tips for staying on the Golden Galápagos Elite Cruise, including tips on transportation, routes, activities, and the best travel times.
Cultural activities and things to do in Ecuador
Ecuador has a rich history with numerous museums and historical sites, but here I’ll introduce you to my personal favorites.
Meet Oswaldo Guayasamín
Oswaldo Guayasamín is one of Ecuador’s most significant modern artists and sculptors and deserves a special place on this list of attractions and things to do. Guayasamín is known for his socially critical paintings, characterized by his use of color, absurd shapes, and the intense emotions in the faces of his subjects. Throughout his life, he created 13,000 paintings and held over 180 exhibitions worldwide. In Quito, you can admire his best works at his former home and at La Capilla del Hombre.
Ingapirca – Archaeological things to do in Ecuador
One of the few archaeological things to do that Ecuador has to offer are the Inca ruins of Ingapirca. Compared to Inca sites like Machu Picchu in Peru, these ruins may not seem as impressive, but comparisons are never fair. The best-preserved building in Ingapirca is the Temple of the Sun, the most elliptical Inca temple in all of South America. Ingapirca is worth a visit if you’re traveling to or from Cuenca in southern Ecuador.
Learn About Zuleta Embroidery
In northern Ecuador, you’ll see women wearing beautifully embroidered blouses. When discussing quality embroidery styles in Ecuador, you’ll likely hear about Zuleta. Zuleta is a village dedicated to the Zuleta embroidery style, a tradition that dates back to 1940. If you are in this part of Ecuador, make sure to stop in Zuleta for a demonstration or perhaps a workshop directly at the homes of the artisans. I visited Zuleta Ilusion and Colores, and even though I’m not particularly skilled in crafts, the workshop was a memorable experience.
Buy a Panama hat
Did you know that the famous Panama hat actually comes from Ecuador? It’s true! Although the finest paja toquilla (Carludovica Palmata), the palm used for Panama hats, comes from the small town of Montecristi on Ecuador’s coast, Cuenca has become the city of Panama hat production. You’ll find the famous hats everywhere in the area. It is recommended to visit the factory of Homero Ortega, where a tour will teach you about the production process and the history of the hat. And of course, you can buy the most beautiful products here.
Curious about Cuenca and its surroundings? The next article will give you all my tips for attractions and things to do in Cuenca, Ecuador.
Mini travel guide + tips for Ecuador
Tours in Ecuador
Looking for tours in Ecuador? Viator is a great platform where you can easily search, compare, and book tours.
Hotel tips Ecuador
In every country I look out for the most beautiful and unique places to stay. A boutique atmosphere, a stylish design, a lovely setting, and a good service are important topics for me, when choosing a hotel. In addition, I like to support the locals and love a sustainable approach around a hotel. Are you curious about my favorite hotels in Ecuador? In the next article you will find an overview of the best boutique hotels in Ecuador, where I personally stayed.
Best time to visit Ecuador
Ecuador is located on the equator and is divided into three areas, each with its own rainy season and best travel time.
- Sierra (Andes Mountains): Here, altitude determines the temperature, and the rainy season runs from November to May.
- Costa (coast): The rainy season here is from December to May. During this period, it’s mostly sunny with heavy tropical showers. From July to November, it’s usually cloudy with occasional light rain.
- Oriente (Amazon region east of the Andes): It’s tropical and humid year-round. The most rain falls in July and August.
Due to these different climate zones, it’s difficult to confirm the best travel time for Ecuador. The dry season in the mountains, from June to October, is often considered the best time to visit Ecuador. During this period, the days are sunny, though it cools down in the evenings with temperatures often dropping below freezing. However, regardless of the month you travel, you can expect some rain.
How to get around in Ecuador
Planning a trip through Ecuador? Long distances, such as to the jungle or the Galápagos Islands, can be covered by plane. Additionally, all cities are well-connected by public transport or shuttle services. I personally enjoy renting a car and exploring on my own. However, there are also numerous tours available to cities and national parks in the area.
Travel by bus or shuttle
Looking for a way to get around in Ecuador by bus or minivan? Use Bookaway, to find and book the best connection for you.
Car rental
Looking for a rental car for your trip to Ecuador? Use Rental Cars to search and compare your car rental options. A quick and easy tool and no need to have up multiple tabs trying to figure out which company is the most affordable. They also have great discounts and cancellation policies.
Flight
Looking for flights to travel to the South of Ecuador, Amazon or Galapagos Islands? Use Skyscanner, when it comes to searching for cheap flights across Ecuador. An easy way to compare and book your flight ticket, as it searches websites and airlines around the world with one click.
Travel insurance
Looking for a travel insurance? World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance, with coverage for more than 150 activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation and more. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world.
More about Ecuador
Did you enjoy reading this article with tips for the best things to do in Ecuador? In the next articles you can read more about this beautiful country.
- Things to do in Quito Ecuador | The ultimate travel guide with 30 tips for your stay
- Best boutique hotels and lodges in Ecuador – 13 tips
- Galapagos Islands Ecuador – everything you want to know about a trip and cruise
- Things to do in Baños Ecuador – full city guide with tips
- Best things to do in Cuenca Ecuador – full city guide with 15 tips
- Things to do in Riobamba Ecuador – a comprehensive guide with tips
- Mashpi Lodge Ecuador – Everything you want to know
- Chimborazo volcano Ecuador – tips for a visit and climb
- Things to do in Otavalo Ecuador – A comprehensive travel guide
Disclaimer: This article may contain affiliate links. If you purchase something using one of our links, we may receive a commission at no extra cost to you, which helps us keep this blog alive. Thank you for your support! Please see our disclosures for more information.