Humidity, blasts of hot air, heavy traffic... Embark for Guayaquil, the largest city of Ecuador even though Quito is the capital. We're off for a visit of the "Pearl of the Pacific", from its landscaped river promenade (the Malecón 2000) to the cerro Santa Ana, not to mention the city centre!

Guayaquil, pearl of the Pacific

In this article you will find a presentation of Isla de la Plata, nicknamed "the poor-man's Galapagos", which can be reached from Puerto López.

Leaving Puerto López for the little Galapagos

The Sierra is the Andean region of Ecuador that's crossed by the Pan-American Highway. The other regions are Selva, home to the Amazon Rainforest and the Costa, which borders the Pacific Coast. Often called the 'Volcano Route', it boasts a dozen volcanoes, including the highest and most active in the world. And we're off to a giddy 3,000m altitude...

Along the Pan-American Highway, from Cotopaxi to Chimborazo

Welcome to Puerto López, an Ecuadorian must-see, home to one of the country's most sought-after activities - whale watching!

Puerto López and whale watching

The incredibly beautiful lake of Quilotoa, is just waiting for walkers in the midst of picture postcard scenery in the heart of the Andes.  You'll be well rewarded for the effort it takes to get there. The scenery is quite simply magnificent.

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Quilotoa

Cotopaxi, approach to the roof of the Andes... A white mushroom with a peak that pierces the clouds, is how I describe the view from the plane when leaving Ecuador.

Cotopaxi

Insilibi is a small, peaceful village, surrounded by mountains, that is hiding on the Quilotoa trekking loop, at an altitude of 2,900 m. For walkers only!

Insilibi

Chilcapamba is a Quechua community in the north of Ecuador. Tourists stay with the local inhabitants and the extra income helps in the development of the village.

Chilcapamba

The Cuyabeno Nature Reserve is one of the best national parks in Ecuador for observing animals in their natural environment.

Cuyabeno

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Along with its competitor, Yasuni, Cuyabeno is the best place in Ecuador to see animals in their natural environment rather than in a zoo. However, the tropical rainforest comes at a price. First you have to get to the reserve, in the east of the country, find somewhere to stay and employ a guide. You also need to hire a boat to go on trips on the river.
I had the opportunity to go on a similar trip to the Amazon in Bolivia for next to nothing, where in three days I saw as many animals as at Cuyabeno: monkeys, crocodiles, caimans, birds of all sorts and even pink river dolphins. If you have the money, Cuyabeno is a fabulous experience, especially for families.
Even though Yasuni is bigger, many tourists just as impressed by Cuyabeno, which is said to be more authentic.

The Cuyabeno Nature Reserve is one of the best national parks in Ecuador for observing animals in their natural environment.

Local travel agencies specialised in Family with children in Ecuador

Family tour ideas in Ecuador

Compared to most South American countries, Ecuador’s relatively small size means it's easy to navigate and&nbsp;an&nbsp;<a data-mce-href="https://www.evaneos.net/where-to-go/family-vacations/" href="https://www.evaneos.net/where-to-go/family-vacations/" target="_blank">ideal destination for families</a>&nbsp;who are looking to minimize travel time, without compromising on adventure. Explore colonial mansions or Inca ruins on one of our&nbsp;<a data-destination-id="72" data-internal-link="destination" href="https://www.evaneos.co.uk/ecuador/" data-mce-href="https://www.evaneos.co.uk/ecuador/">tailor-made Ecuador tours</a>, before heading off on a rainforest adventure, where you can spot a plethora of wildlife, or even go whale-watching off the coast.<h3>Best things&nbsp;to see and do in Ecuador&nbsp;with kids</h3>As soon as you land in&nbsp;<a data-place-id="1203" data-internal-link="place" href="https://www.evaneos.co.uk/ecuador/holidays/places/1203-1203/" data-mce-href="https://www.evaneos.co.uk/ecuador/holidays/places/1203-1203/">Quito</a>, you and your family will get a sense of the incredible culture, atmosphere and range of experiences to be had in Ecuador. Begin your unforgettable trip with a chocolate making class where you can all learn how to make this ancient and delicious treat. This class is always a highlight with travelers, no matter their age. Now that you’re fueled up with chocolate, you’ll all be ready to head off into the wilderness and spot some of Ecuador’s most famous animal residents in one of the many nature reserves or National Parks, such as the stunning Yanacocha or Milpe reserves.&nbsp;Ecuador is an animal lover's dream, with incredible biodiversity unlike anywhere else. As well as visiting one of the country's numerous&nbsp;llama farms, the San Isidro Cloud Forest is another favorite with families wanting to see some of&nbsp;Ecuador's incredible animal species at close range. Visit the winding trails of the cloud forest to see why this place is so amazing. For adventure-loving families,&nbsp;<a data-place-id="1811" data-internal-link="place" href="https://www.evaneos.co.uk/ecuador/holidays/places/1811-1811/" data-mce-href="https://www.evaneos.co.uk/ecuador/holidays/places/1811-1811/">Baños</a>&nbsp;is the perfect choice and here, you’ll be able to river-rafting, zip lining, biking and so much more, with the amazing backdrop of the smoking Tungurahua Volcano. Here you can also find a monkey sanctuary and an endless variety of hiking trails for active families looking for an adventure. The bravest among you can even try the local delicacy of lemon ants washed down with the tastier, Melcocha taffy. The nearby&nbsp;<a data-destination-id="303" data-internal-link="destination" href="https://www.evaneos.co.uk/galapagos-islands/" data-mce-href="https://www.evaneos.co.uk/galapagos-islands/">Galapagos Islands</a>&nbsp;are often also visited as part of a trip to Ecuador, meaning you’ll be able to explore two incredible destinations in one trip.<h3>Best time to visit Ecuador as a family</h3>Since Ecuador is so close to the Equator, typical seasons don’t exist in the same way here, which can make it difficult to know&nbsp;<a data-document-id="2958" data-internal-link="article" href="https://www.evaneos.co.uk/ecuador/holidays/when-to-go/" data-mce-href="https://www.evaneos.co.uk/ecuador/holidays/when-to-go/">when to travel</a>. Temperatures remain pretty steady throughout the year with weather varying between regions. If you plan on travelling around the country and visiting several locations, its best to come prepared with a variety of clothing and waterproof jackets as well as hot weather attire. Don’t forget to pack hats and sun cream for the midday heat. Mid-June to Early September is the busiest period, in which families and other tourists make the most of their summer break and so, if possible try to visit outside of this time to save money on accommodation and to avoid crowds of tourists at more popular locations. This also means that you’ll be able to be more spontaneous during your trip, which can be great for families traveling with younger children or teenagers, since you won’t have to worry so much about accommodations being booked up during your time here. In short, Ecuador is a year round destination, with weather varying from place to place. <h3>Family&nbsp;vacation tips for traveling to Ecuador</h3>With a little research and knowledge you can ensure that you are as prepared as possible for your family trip to Ecuador, here a few tips and tricks to ensure that everything runs smoothly on your holiday. <ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Public Transport here is pretty good compare with some other Latin American countries and, with a little forward-looking, you should be able to get round easily and conveniently. Ecuador’s relatively small size also means that these journeys will be easily manageable for younger kids, meaning you have one less thing to worry about.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Check in with your GP before leaving to see what vaccinations and medications you will need before and during your trip. Make sure you pack mosquito repellent, especially if you are planning on traveling through the jungle. We also advise packing some long trousers and long sleeves to avoid the annoyance of itchy bites later on in your trip.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Since the country’s altitude is fairly high, take it easy for the first few days to avoid any effects of altitude sickness getting the better of you and your kids.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">As with a lot of countries, its best to be aware that pickpockets and the like are common in crowded areas and tourist honey-traps. Have your wits about you and perhaps invest in a hidden belt bag in which to store money and important documents.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Embrace the atmosphere. This country is extremely welcoming, friendly and well-known for its laid back atmosphere. Make the most of your time here by embracing this and immersing yourself and your family in local culture - you won’t be disappointed.</li></ul>

Start planning your family vacation in Ecuador

The best {nb_iti} Ecuador tours for families with children, created by a local travel agency. Plan and book tailor-made vacations at local prices.

Cuyabeno Vacations

Cuyabeno: How to get there?

Cuyabeno: When to go?

Cuyabeno: For how long?

Cuyabeno: What to see in the surroundings?

Ecuador: our articles for your vacation