Neighbouring Colombia and Peru, Ecuador is a relatively small country that nevertheless offers an enticing array of scenic landscapes, diverse wildlife species and interesting cities. Dense Amazon rainforest, towering Andean mountain peaks, palm-fringed Pacific Coast beaches and fascinating historical sites are all part and parcel of Ecuador’s prolific charms. The former Inca town of Cuenca is the nation’s third-largest city and a Unesco World Heritage Site. This alluring city, with its cobbled streets, beautiful architecture and photogenic plazas, boasts a huge variety of museums and art galleries. The vibrant capital city of Quito is also worth a visit. Arguably the most dazzling jewel in Ecuador’s crown is the Galapagos Archipelago in the Pacific, about 1000 kilometres west of the mainland. Their magnificent, pristine landscapes and prolific wildlife, which inspired Charles Darwin, have made this cluster of islands a world-famous travel destination.
Quito, the capital of Ecuador, lies on the slopes of the Andes’ mighty Pichincha volcano in the Guayllabamba river basin. The city’s Old Town is its main attraction - one of the most well preserved in Latin America and the first-ever UNESCO heritage site. Wander among ancient, colourful streets; pop into glorious historic churches; or spend an afternoon browsing the vibrant Mercado (markets) and learning about the unique, traditional Ecuadorian Sierra culture. Other bucket list items in Quito include a visit to the impressive Casa Museo Guayasamín; the Museo de la Presidencia which provides insight into Ecuador’s history; and a climb up the iconic towers of the Basilica. Numerous gorgeous public parks and a thriving and exciting culinary scene complete the package.
The picturesque Ecuadorian rural town of Angochagua sits in the eastern foothills of the mighty Cerro Imbabura, within the magnificent Protected Zuleta Forest Reserve and surrounded by the Andes Mountain Range. This is a nature lover’s ultimate destination. Nearby, there are thick woodlands, extreme mountains, dormant volcanoes and an abundance of unique flora and fauna. Bathe in freshwater springs that spurt along the canyons, hike along craggy peaks, and watch the majestic endangered Andean Condors in flight. Highlights include the Condor Rehabilitation and Interpretation Center, an impressive 11th-century archaeological site, and the chance to learn more about local culture by meeting the neighbouring Indian communities.
Winding through the Ecuadorian Andes, from the Panamericana into the Cotopaxi province, the Quilotoa Loop is a circular road offering a variety of stunning hikes and tours for excellent value. The primary destination of the route is its magnificent sparkling Laguna Quilotoa, an awe-inspiring crater lake ringed by volcanic peaks and believed to be bottomless by some. Connecting several friendly rural farming villages, Quilotoa provides a beautiful and adventurous way to get to know the area’s culture. One of the highlights of this is the incredible array of town markets in Zumbahua (Saturdays), Guantualo (Mondays) and Sasquili (Thursdays). The hike is known for its diversity of trails and options, with its different lengths, difficulty levels, and routes. It is also excellent value for money in comparison to many of the other mountain trails in the country.
The small, central-Ecuadorian town of Banos de Agua Santa (‘Baths of Holy Water’) lies in the verdant foothills of the Tungurahua volcano. Adventure lovers can make the most of this idyllic setting by taking a waterfall tour; going paragliding, bridge jumping or white-water rafting. Those looking for views with a hint of danger can try a ride on the ‘Swing at the End of The World’, to sail out over the mountainside and see unobstructed views of the (possibly erupting) volcano. For the less bold, a visit to the mineral-rich hot springs will do nicely, followed by a stroll along the town’s red, blue and yellow pavement and a sampling of the local fare at one of the many welcoming eateries. Several beautiful colourfully-lit cathedrals add a sense of wonder to the town at night.
Alausi is idyllically set in the spectacularly scenic Andean Highlands, perched on the edge of the Rio Chanchan Gorge, in the Chimborazo Province of Ecuador. The main highlight is undoubtedly the Devil Nose Train, known locally as the ‘La Nariz del Diablo‘, which features the steepest descent of any section of railway track in the world. Aside from this thrilling attraction, this charming town boasts a serene atmosphere, impressive heritage architecture and various landmarks and monuments, including the magnificent Monument to Saint Peter. Visitors can look forward to soaking up picturesque views, wandering around the quaint cobblestone streets, or browsing the bustling Sunday market. Don’t miss the Festival of San Pedro showcasing an array of Traditional dance, local music, and fascinating folklore.
Cuenca is a vibrant city set in the Ecuadorian Highlands, and is the capital of the Azuay Province. Ancient history tells of an impressive Incan centre with the finest temples covered in gold sheets and magnificent palaces, but little remains of this glory. The town’s present-day charm is due largely to its impressive colonial architecture, cobbled streets, plazas, and churches – including the blue-domed Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception – and its setting above the grassy banks of the Rio Tomebamba. The town centre was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999 and is a popular place of inspiration for writers, poets, and artists.
Resting on the west bank of the Guayas River, Guayaquil is the largest and most populous city in Ecuador is also its main port and economic hub. It has also carved a rich identity for itself with a number of urban renewal projects that have transformed it into an extremely appealing destination. While visitors can still enjoy the colonial grandeur of sites like the Guayaquil Metropolitan Cathedral and the historic Las Peñas quarter, the city’s modern offerings include The Malecon, a bustling 2.5km riverfront walkway and the Museo Antropologico y de Arte Contemporaneo – a must for art lovers. The protected area of Santay Island offers a taste of local village life. Guayaquil is also the departure point for trips to the Galápagos Islands.
The small but charming fishing village of Puerto Lopez enjoys an idyllic location along Ecuador's Pacific Coast in the scenic Manabí Province. This laid-back village is known for its perfect setting and ecotourism opportunities. It possesses a welcoming charm and serves as an excellent base for exploring the magnificent Machalilla National Park, featuring incredible natural scenery and some of the most beautiful beaches in Ecuador. Dubbed the 'gateway to the Poor Man's Galapagos', Silver Island or Isla de La Plata lies just off the coast and boasts breathtaking landscapes and an abundance of endangered wildlife, including blue-footed booby, albatross and frigate birds. Visitors can look forward to browsing the morning fish market, sampling local freshly caught seafood, enjoying the warm tropical days, visiting the indigenous community of Agua Blanca and strolling along the pristine Playa Los Frailes, to name just a few.
