There are many reasons that make Ecuador a must-see destination: its unmatched diversity; free-from-mass tourism, endless array of adventures; authentic cultural experiences; eternal spring-like weather year-round and last but not least the historic Galapagos Islands, where Charles Darwin developed his theory of Evolution by natural selection.
The varied geographic terrain and panorama allow visitors to truly enjoy a broad range of experiences, including numerous natural thermal hot baths, pristine volcanic lagoons, majestic volcanoes, extensive rivers and peaceful lakes, lovely beaches and lush green tropical vegetation with more than 25,000 species of plants and 1600 species of birds. In a nutshell, traveling around Ecuador is like revealing how a great deal can be packed into a small space.
Ecuador is blessed with five distinct geographic regions, each with its own rich biodiversity: the Galapagos Islands, the Pacific Coast, the Amazon Rainforest, the Cloud Forest and the Andean Sierra (Highlands). Here are some of Ecuador’s highlights.
Galapagos Islands
Ecuador’s distant possession, the picture-perfect Galapagos Islands lie far into the Pacific, beyond the plantations leading to Ecuador’s coast. Comprising 13 large and 6 small islands, the Galapagos Islands mesmerize visitors with their stunning natural beauty, native wildlife species, including giant tortoises, marine iguanas, sea lions, sharks and albatrosses, which have perhaps thrived thanks to the islands’ remote location, and the broad menu of land and water activities to keep them busy all day long. The islands are among the most renowned ecological destinations in the world, and tourists can only visit them with a government licensed tour group.
Colonial Cities
A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1978 Quito – Ecuador’s amazing capital, offers a mix of colonial history and modern city with a world of fun for tourists of all interests. Cobbled streets, tiny churches and picturesque plazas adore this colonial city, which for over 300 years was governed by the Spanish, making it a great place to start your visit. Another colonial gem of a city with many cultural pursuits is Cuenca, tucked into a mountain valley at 8000 feet, featuring white-washed buildings and red tiled roofs. The highlight of Cuenca is Las Casas Colgadas, or ‘overhanging houses,’ a row of 14th-century homes that appear ready to tip over into the Huecar canyon.
Cotopaxi National Park
Situated near Latacunga, the Cotopaxi National Park is where you’ll come face-to-face with the highest active volcano in the world. Ecuador’s most popular hiking destination, Cotopaxi provides visitors with a number of superb hiking trails, as well as an overnight hut at the snowline for those who attempt to climb the summit of Volcano Cotopaxi. The park is also a superb destination for birdwatching since the forests and plains are home to such species as condors, blue-billed pointed ducks, Andean gulls and hummingbirds. In the park’s small museum visitors can learn about the its geology and stuffed animals. Within the park’s thrilling activities are also mountaineering, camping, mountain biking and horse riding.
Amazon Rainforest
Conveniently nestled in the eastern lowlands of Ecuador and considered the upper edge of the world’s Amazon basin, the Ecuadorian Rainforest makes another fascinating place to see Ecuador. Famous for being one of the 25 hotspots of biodiversity on the planet with more variety of flora and fauna than any other place in the world, this natural wonder offers visitors many experiences and tours, during which visitors will have the opportunity to spot unique wildlife and visit the native communities of the area (there are 6 of them).
Otavalo
Part of the fun traveling in Ecuador is also exploring the small town of Otavalo, filled with many local markets, selling the handiwork crafted by local artisans. Make sure to visit the town every Saturday, when in the city’s Plaza de Ponchos a wide menu of jewelry, wood and stone carvings and woven clothing are offered for sale.
No matter how long you plan your holiday to Ecuador, be sure to find a bit of culture, nature, history, adventure and gastronomy to suit your taste and budget.
