What to See in Ecuador: A Great Yet Underrated Destination

Quito: The Historic Capital

Begin your adventure in Quito, Ecuador, the capital city and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Located high in the Andes, Quito is famous for its well-preserved colonial architecture and dynamic cultural scene

Things to Do in Quito:

Explore the Historic Center: Stroll through the cobblestone streets, admire ornate churches like La Compañía de Jesús, and visit Plaza Grande Visit the Equator: A short drive from the city, the Mitad del Mundo monument marks the equatorial line. Stand with one foot in each hemisphere and explore the interactive museum

Cable Car Ride: Take the Teleférico up to the Pichincha Volcano for stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains Discover Local Markets: Perfect for souvenir shopping, La Mariscal Artisan Market offers a variety of handmade crafts, jewelry, textiles, spices, and other Ecuadorian goods Outdoor Adventures: Located just north of Quito, Pululahua Crater offers excellent hiking opportunities and breathtaking views. Take a day trip to Cotopaxi National Park, where you can see the majestic volcano, hike, and perhaps spot some wildlife

The Galapagos Islands: A Natural Wonderland

Ecuador's most renowned attraction, the Galapagos Islands, is an archipelago of volcanic islands famous for their unique wildlife. A visit here feels like stepping into a natural history documentary

Highlights of the Galapagos Islands:

Wildlife Watching: Spot giant tortoises, marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies, and more. Each island boasts a distinct ecosystem and species

Snorkeling and Diving: Discover the underwater world, teeming with sea lions, sharks, and vibrant fish

Hiking: Traverse diverse landscapes, from Isabela Island's volcanic terrain to Santa Cruz's lush highlands

Baños: The Adventure Capital

Baños de Agua Santa, known simply as Baños, is a small town famed for its adventure sports and natural hot springs

Must-Do Activities in Baños:

Waterfalls Route: Rent a bike and follow the Ruta de las Cascadas to see spectacular waterfalls like Pailón del Diablo

Swing at the End of the World: Visit Casa del Árbol to take a thrilling swing over the edge of a mountain, offering breathtaking views

Thermal Baths: Relax in hot springs such as the Termas de la Virgen

Cuenca: A Colonial Gem

Cuenca, another UNESCO World Heritage site, is celebrated for its beautiful colonial architecture, arts scene, and relaxed atmosphere.

Top Sights in Cuenca:

Historic Center: Wander through charming streets, visit the stunning New Cathedral, and relax in Parque Calderón

Museums: Learn about the region's history and culture at the Pumapungo Museum and the Museum of Modern Art Cajas National Park: Just outside Cuenca, this park offers excellent hiking trails through rugged, high-altitude landscapes

The Amazon Rainforest: A Biodiverse Haven

Ecuador's part of the Amazon Rainforest is one of the planet's most biodiverse areas, teeming with wildlife and exotic plants

Experiences in the Amazon:

Wildlife: Spot monkeys, toucans, sloths, and even elusive jaguars

Indigenous Communities: Visit local communities to learn about their traditions and way of life

River Excursions: Take a boat trip along the Napo River to explore the dense jungle and its hidden treasures

Conclusion

From the historic charm of Quito to the natural wonders of the Galápagos Islands, the adventure-filled Baños, the colonial beauty of Cuenca, and the lush biodiversity of the Amazon Rainforest, Ecuador is a treasure trove of unforgettable moments

Ready to discover all Ecuador has to offer? Book a personal guide with the FindGuide app and create an adventure that is tailored to your preferences. Start planning your adventure today!