Places to Visit in Ecuador

There is an endless list of places to visit in Ecuador. The country is truly one of the best-kept secrets for luxury travelers and adventure travelers alike. Interested in a Galapagos Cruise or island-hopping in the Galapagos Islands? Maybe a magical tour of Ecuador’s Cloud Forest is more your style? The Galapagos is an incredible destination, where you can get up close and see giant sea turtles, blue-footed boobies, sea lions, penguins and so much more. Enjoy this tropical climate year-round.

Additionally, tours of Ecuador should include a visit to Quito, the country’s capital. Quito was one of the first UNESCO World Heritage Sites due to the city having the highest concentration of colonial-era churches in the world. There’s also plenty of places to visit near Quito, such as the Otavalo Market, the Rio Blanco River, and the Avenue of the Volcanoes. For a real adventure, explore the Ecuadorian Amazon. Our tours in Ecuador include private excursions and local guides, making any place you visit a special one.

Galapagos Cruises and Island Tours

A vacation in Ecuador must include experiencing the Galapagos Islands. Our Galapagos Island Cruises and Island Tours offer travelers a singular experience, exploring the “living laboratory” of abundant wildlife and natural beauty. As a result of volcanic formations dated back millions of years ago, this isolated archipelago in the Pacific Ocean is home to some of the rarest species of the continent, from the Giant Tortoise, Blue Footed Boobie, and Marine Iguanas. Enjoy the wonders of the Galapagos by cruise. An Ecuador cruise is an excellent option for discovering the unique qualities of each island from the comfort of a luxury cabin.

You can explore these islands by luxury cruises with air-conditioned suites, delicious tropical meals, and have activities planned every day. There are 3, 4, and 7-night cruises. There are also options to stay on some of the islands to enjoy scuba diving and have a more flexible schedule, so you can choose what works best for your travel preferences.

Ecuadorian Amazon Rainforest

If the Galapagos Islands weren’t enough, you can also tour Ecuador by visiting the Amazon Rainforest. That’s right! Ecuador hosts a portion of the mighty jungle. Experience the jungle life by staying in a lodge in the Amazon rainforest. With dense tropical forests, unexplored wilderness, and sparsely populated indigenous tribes, Ecuador’s Amazon is full of mystery and wonder.

To enjoy this part of Ecuador, you can stay at an eco-friendly lodge located deep in the jungle. Lodges are all-inclusive and range from basic to luxurious. Activities here include trekking through the forests, kayaking through rivers, swimming, bird watching, indigenous tribe visits, and of course, animal spotting including pink dolphins! Spend a few days at an Ecuadorian Amazon Lodge to see the flora and fauna of the Amazon.

Devil’s Nose

For the traveler interested in train tours, Ecuador is the country for you. Tour Ecuador aboard the Tren Crucero, notorious for its exciting train tracks, and its stops along with Ecuador’s hidden gems. This luxurious train follows a narrow path which is carved directly into the side of the mountain. The train passes through farmlands and traditional villages before a courageous vertical descent through switchbacks backward and forwards!

During one point of your ride, spot the Devil’s Nose on one side, and on the other side, there will be a steep drop off just inches away! Don’t let the drop fool you, even though it’s quite steep; this train is very safe. So cuddle with your blanket, and enjoy this historic train ride. After an exciting train ride, you can visit the ruins of Inca Canari Ingapiraca Ruins that are considered one of the most important architectural sites in Ecuador.

Guayaquil

Located along the Guayas River, Guayaquil is a vibrant port city that blends historic streets, lush forests, and modern urban renewal projects. Teeming with nightlife, music, amazing seafood, beautiful tropical beaches, and its dry, warm climate it’s no wonder many ex-pats decide to visit or retire in this city! There are many activities for people of all ages and lifestyles.

You can relax by the beach, visit the amusement park, visit the bars and restaurants of Las Penas and visit the main shopping area and pedestrian walkway of 9 de Octubre. One of the most important beaches is Montanita Montanitas was a former fishing village but now is one of the most important surfing spots in South America.

On our Guayaquil to Quito tour, visitors can spend hours exploring the various neighborhoods, and famed sites like the Guayaquil Metropolitan Cathedral and Anthropology Museum. For an escape into nature, visit the Guayaquil Historical Park, and appreciate the colorful historic homes and zoo that make up the area. The city’s most famous attraction is the Malecón 2000. This urban renewal project has transformed the Guayas River waterfront into a lively and gorgeous boardwalk. Stretching 2.5 km, the Malecón 2000 is a collection of riverfront views, restaurants, artwork, and people watching.

Quito

Travel to Quito and learn about the Incan culture in the historical old town. The Northern and Southern Hemisphere split this UNESCO World Cultural Heritage city, which makes it the center of the world! Visit the La Compania Church covered in pure gold or take a stroll down the streets to see the brightly colored houses that line the streets. Don’t miss the Plaza Independencia, archaeological museums, and Avenida Amazonas, a popular street with many shops with local crafts.

From there you can take a day trip from the indigenous communities dotting the base of Mount Imbabura, to the white city of Ibarra with its peculiarly white homes and cobblestone streets, take the Chasi Antawa train through the Salinas Valley and end up at the famous Otavalo Indian Market.

Cuenca

With origins outdating even the ancient cities of Europe, Cuenca is an incredibly historic and diverse town. Today, visitors can still visit the ruins of this city’s great past, from its Pre-Colombian civilizations to the rich Spanish Empire. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage site, Cuenca’s historical center is a grand display of Spanish architecture. From elaborate cathedrals like the New Cathedral of Cuenca to the scenic Puente Roto bridge, a stroll through Cuenca’s quaint streets is filled with endless attractions and is a perfect combination for those looking into Ecuador honeymoons.